AHRI SA
HR & IR Conference 2024

29 and 30 October, Adelaide Oval

Day One: HR Conference

Stay current, hear the latest on external and workplace trends, best practice HR strategies and tools, and key workplace legislative changes.

8:30am
Coffee and networking
9:15am
OPENING KEYNOTE: Amplifying impact: The future is human

Join Sue Langley for an inspiring keynote that delves into the transformative power of positive leadership and the integration of positive psychology principles throughout the employee lifecycle.  

In this keynote Sue reminds us that we created the systems, and we have the power to change them. Discover how to amplify impact by embracing the philosophy that ‘The Future is Human®’. We will explore:  

  • How positive psychology principles can be built into every part of the employee lifecycle to make a difference 
  • The power of positive leadership for creating change and inspires leaders to support wellbeing and positive psychosocial benefits  
  • The Future is Human®: inspiring a future of work we can be proud of 
10:15am
SESSION 2: Sensemaking: Reframing change with neuroscience

Change can be invigorating personally but a grind professionally, bogged down by overruns, confusion, and disappointed faces. Yet, it can be simpler using a science-backed method that can amplify and transform your approach and shift mindsets about change. Sensemaking is the process by which individuals and organisations interpret and give meaning to experiences.  

In this session, Kylie Morton will bring a solid slice of neuroscience to the table and share strategies that are not just smart but also effective to get your thinking and feeling differently about change. 

11:00am
Morning tea, expo, networking
11:30am
SESSION 3: Workforce development and the future workforce needs of SA in a modern economy

Natalie Morris MAHRI · Executive Manager, People, Culture & Quality · Helping Hand Aged Care

Susan Stone · Chair of Economics · Credit Union SA

Georgette Elston · Head of Resourcing & Early Careers · BAE Systems Australia

Join us for a panel discussion that explores the multifaceted dynamics of workforce development, informed by the latest economic insights and analysis of the future landscape.  

We will delve into the strategic implications of workforce trends, the evolving needs of industries in South Australia, and HR’s crucial role in shaping a resilient and future-ready workforce. Engage in a thought-provoking conversation that balances economic forecasts with practical strategies for nurturing talent, developing skills, and driving sustainable growth in the region. 

12:15pm
SESSION 4: AHRI address

Sarah McCann-Bartlett MAHRI · Chief Executive Officer · Australian HR Institute

12:30pm
SESSION 5: Asking for a friend - the unspoken truths

You know when there’s something that you really want to share or ask but you are too scared to because, well… am I the only one? 

Join the AHRI SA state council for an engaging and honest discussion about all those things that we hold back on… just in case! In this session, we’ll explore the unspoken truths of the workplace, delving into the aspects we adore and those that frustrate us but rarely voice. This interactive forum encourages open dialogue, allowing participants to share their thoughts and experiences to a group of likeminded people. Our goal is to create a safe space for authentic conversation, shedding light on common workplace issues and uncovering strategies for improvement. Whether it’s a pet peeve, a passion, or a persistent problem, let’s talk about it—no judgment, just real talk. 

1:00pm
Lunch, expo and networking
1:45pm
SESSION 6: The power of PAUSE: How to navigate chaos like a pro

Life’s demands often amplify our inner critic instead of nurturing our ideal self. Like an old cassette tape, these outdated narratives play on a non-stop loop in our minds, hindering our potential. This session is designed to help HR leaders turn inward, find inner clarity, and walk away with tools to amplify their best selves, both at work and beyond.  

Join Nathan as he energises you with a powerful five-step framework to enhance self-awareness, self-regulation, and overall emotional intelligence. By the end of this session, you’ll be equipped to rewrite your narrative, cultivate a supportive team environment, and drive positive change in your organisation. 

2:30pm
SESSION 7: Employee engagement and psychosocial health: Strategies for fostering a sense of belonging and purpose

Work to live or live to work? Our work and personal lives are increasingly interconnected. With the pace of technological change and evolving employee expectations around the role of work and organisation in environmental and social spheres, it is no wonder organisations that foster a sense of belonging and purpose in their people reap the benefits of greater human wellbeing and high performing teams.  

But what do ‘belonging’ and ‘purpose’ actually mean in the work environment? How do organisations nurture such a personal sense of connection and loyalty in their people? Fiana Wei, Organisational Psychologist and Managing Director of Adaptive Psychology, is here to share practical approaches to transforming workplace dynamics through employee engagement and psychosocial health. 

3:15pm
Afternoon Tea, expo and networking
3:45pm
SESSION 8: Amplify your voice to amplify your impact

Do you ever feel like your brilliant ideas get lost in the noise? Are you a strategic HR leader or professional whose voice isn’t reaching the C-suite? Perhaps you’re also wondering how to share key messaging to your broader team and the business. This interactive session is designed to empower HR professionals at all levels to become more confident and have more impactful connections. We’ll explore the power of communication to drive positive change within your organisation through engaging stories, real-world examples, and interactive exercises. This session is not just about presenting, it’s about empowering HR professionals to be the strategic influencers they were meant to be. Get ready to amplify your voice, amplify your impact, and drive positive change within your organisation. 

5:00pm
NETWORKING DRINKS
6:00pm
NETWORKING DRINKS CONCLUDES

Amplify: Navigating complexity, change and growth in HR

Join us on an enlightening journey to ‘Amplify’ your HR expertise and drive organisational success.