More than Materials: Collaborative Approaches in Cultural Heritage Conservation 

The 2025 AICCM National Conference will take place at Kurilpa (South Brisbane) on the unceded lands of the Turrbal and Yuggera/Jagera peoples who we acknowledge as the Original Custodians of this Country. We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise First Nations enduring connection to lands, waters, culture, and community and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples.

Cultural heritage conservation is a complex field that involves many diverse communities. It is built on material expertise, context and the relationships that shape our work. Whether we analyse pigments, stabilise historic textiles, design exhibition displays, or work directly with communities to safeguard living traditions, we recognise that cultural materials are deeply connected to people, place, and knowledge systems.

As AICCM continues to learn and grow in its cultural responsibilities, this conference is an opportunity to bring together all aspects of our work – scientific, material, ethical, cultural and relational. It marks an important step in strengthening relationships with First Nations and all communities to embed cultural perspectives and build stronger, more culturally informed conservation practices together.

This event is being developed in collaboration with First Nations partners, including the Indigenous Art Centre Alliance Queensland (IACA) and Caroline Martin of Yalukit Marnang Consultancy. We are committed to creating space for respectful dialogue, community-led contributions, and shared learning. The conference will comprise a three-day hybrid event with presentations, PowerPoint Poster sessions, and panel discussions.

Virtual/online Registration end date: 7 November 2025