MND Australia, in collaboration with the Pan-Asian Consortium for Treatment and Research in ALS (PACTALS), is excited to bring the PACTALS Congress to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 7-9 September 2025. The PACTALS Congress brings together scientific experts in MND/ALS research from the Asia Pacific region and global leaders in the field.
In conjunction with the three-day PACTALS Congress, we're also pleased to host our biannual 12th MND Australia Care Forum on Tuesday 9 September. The Forum will showcase the latest developments and best-practice in MND care. The Forum is ideal for health professionals, service providers and others who support people living with MND, as well as those with lived experience of MND.
Read more about PACTALs
Register for the PACTALs Congress/MND Australia Care Forum
Register now for both the PACTALS Congress and the MND Australia Care Forum, where you can choose to attend one, two, or all three days. On 9 September both the MND Australia Care Forum and a full day of PACTALS Congress sessions will run concurrently.
Care Forum Draft Program
Time | Presentation | |
| Session 1 | 0900 - 1030 | Welcome and opening keynote |
| Welcome and Opening remarks | ||
| Keynote presentation - the power of resilience | ||
| Lived Experience Perspective | ||
| Update on the latest in MND management - Steve Vucic | ||
| Morning Tea Break | 1030 - 1100 | |
| Session 2 | 1100 - 1200 | The latest in evidence-based care |
| This session explores the latest advances in evidence-based care for people living with motor neurone disease (MND) in Australia. Through a diverse range of research and practice-based insights, the session highlights collaborative approaches to improving clinical guidelines, innovative service models, and person-centred care. Presentations will examine challenges and opportunities in respiratory support, nutrition, multidisciplinary care, interventions, and workforce development—underscoring a commitment to translating evidence into impactful, compassionate care across the MND journey. | ||
| Session 3 | 1200-1300 | Wellbeing & Communication |
| This session focuses on enhancing wellbeing and communication for individuals living with motor neurone disease (MND) and those who support them. Emphasising a holistic and person-centred approach, the session explores strategies to promote wellbeing, empower carers, and support effective communication throughout the disease journey. Through shared experiences and research insights, the session highlights the emotional, psychological, and practical aspects of care—recognising the profound impact MND has not only on individuals, but also on families and communities. | ||
| Lunch Break | 1300 - 1345 | |
| Session 4 | 1345 - 1445 | International perspectives in care & support |
| This session offers an international perspective on care and support for people living with motor neurone disease (MND), highlighting insights from diverse healthcare settings. It explores how tailored, resource-sensitive approaches—such as the early integration of neuropalliative care—can address the complex clinical needs of individuals with MND, even in environments with limited resources. The session underscores the importance of global knowledge-sharing to improve equity, access, and quality of care across varied health systems. | ||
| Session 5 | 1445 - 1545 | Innovations & New Horizons |
| This session showcases cutting-edge innovations and forward-thinking approaches aimed at enhancing the lives of people living with motor neurone disease (MND). From harnessing technology and creative problem-solving to expanding global education and advocacy, the presentations explore how new tools, ideas, and voices are shaping the future of MND care and support. With a strong focus on independence, accessibility, and the lived experience, the session highlights the transformative potential of innovation in improving quality of life and fostering inclusive participation. | ||
| Afternoon Tea & Posters | 1545 - 1630 | |
| Session 6 | 1630 - 1715 | Closing keynote |
| Keynote Presentation - Paul Talman | ||
| Lived Experience | ||
| Session 7 | 1730 - 1800 | PACTALs closing ceremony |
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