Delegate Code of Conduct

The National Koala Conference brings together people from diverse backgrounds, disciplines and experiences who share a commitment to advancing koala conservation.

We recognise that robust discussion, scientific debate and the respectful exchange of ideas are essential to improving conservation outcomes. By attending the conference, all delegates, presenters, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers and staff agree to contribute to a professional, inclusive and respectful environment.

Our Expectations

We ask all participants to:

• Treat everyone with courtesy, kindness and respect.
• Listen respectfully to differing viewpoints, recognising that complex conservation challenges often involve diverse perspectives.
• Engage in constructive discussion and debate based on evidence, experience and professionalism.
• Allow presenters to complete their presentations without interruption.
• Ask questions respectfully and in good faith, using the allocated Q&A opportunities.
• Be mindful that disagreement with an idea does not justify disrespect towards the individual presenting it.
• Respect the cultural knowledge and perspectives shared by Traditional Owners and Indigenous participants.
• Foster an environment that is welcoming, inclusive and free from discrimination.
• Follow the directions of conference staff and venue personnel to ensure the smooth operation of the event.

Unacceptable Behaviour

The following behaviours will not be tolerated:

• Harassment, bullying or intimidation.
• Personal attacks, insults or abusive language.
• Discriminatory or offensive behaviour based on age, gender, race, culture, religion, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic.
• Deliberately disrupting presentations, panel discussions or conference activities.
• Aggressive, threatening or inappropriate behaviour towards delegates, speakers, volunteers, exhibitors or staff.
• Recording or photographing presentations where permission has not been granted.
• Behaviour that compromises the safety, wellbeing or enjoyment of others.

Questions and Discussion

Questions are encouraged and are an important part of the conference.

We ask delegates to:

• Keep questions concise and relevant to the presentation.
• Ask questions rather than make extended statements.
• Respect the moderator's role in managing time and ensuring multiple voices can be heard.
• Accept that presenters may respectfully decline to answer questions outside the scope of their research or expertise.

Social Media & Sharing

We encourage delegates to share their conference experience and help promote koala conservation.

When doing so, please:

• Engage respectfully on social media and other online platforms.
• Ensure posts accurately represent presentations and presenters.
• Respect any requests from presenters regarding photography, recording or sharing specific content.

If Issues Arise

If you experience or witness behaviour that does not align with this Code of Conduct, please notify a member of the conference organising team.

Reports will be handled respectfully and, where appropriate, confidentially.

Conference organisers reserve the right to address inappropriate behaviour, which may include:

• Providing a verbal warning.
• Asking an individual to leave a session.
• Removing an individual from the conference without refund in cases of serious or repeated misconduct.

Working Together

The National Koala Conference exists to advance koala conservation through collaboration, innovation and the respectful sharing of knowledge.

By participating, we all contribute to creating an environment where people feel safe to learn, question, challenge ideas constructively and work together towards better outcomes for koalas and the ecosystems they depend upon.