19 – 20 October 2026
Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre
ASID will hold its 2026 Conference in Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand, at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre from 19–20 October 2026.
The theme for the 2026 Conference is:
20 Years of the UN Convention: Reflect and Reimagine its Promise for People with Intellectual Disabilities.
The conference marks 20 years since the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) was adopted. It is a chance to look at what has improved for people with intellectual disabilities, what still needs to change, and how we can work together to shape the future.
The ASID 2026 Conference will bring together researchers, advocates, policymakers, service providers, families, carers and people with intellectual disabilities from across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Over two days, the program will share new research, practical ideas, lived-experience insights and policy developments that support people with intellectual disabilities to live full and inclusive lives.
Conference Artwork – Butterflies
Pamela Best’s “Butterflies” was chosen for ASID 2026 as a symbol of transformation, growth and hope; reflecting 20 years of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Like the journey of the UNCRPD, butterflies represent progress, resilience and the ongoing work of change. As we reflect on what has improved and reimagine what is still possible, the artwork captures both renewal and collective movement toward a more inclusive future for people with intellectual disabilities.
Australasian Society for Intellectual Disability
ASID is a peak body in intellectual disability research in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Research gives us good evidence. Good evidence helps to make good policy and practice. Good policy and practice help people with intellectual disabilities to have good lives.
