The Centre's Driving Change team partnered with Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) and the Council for Intellectual Disability (CID) to run a community conference in response to the Finlay Browne inquest. The inquest found that unconscious bias had affected the health care Finlay received.

In early 2025, the Driving Change team called for a community response to the inquest findings. WNSWLHD worked closely with the team to design a conference that raised awareness about unconscious bias in health care. A working group was set up with partners, local health and community organisations, and community members. Together, they planned the program and chose the topics.

The conference brought together 115 people, including health staff and partner organisations. Feedback was very positive: 96% of attendees said they enjoyed the conference "a lot", and more than half said they learned something new about intellectual disability.

One of the most powerful sessions focused on unconscious bias. Rachel Browne spoke about her experiences and shared advice with health professionals:

• "Listen to us because we can help you."
• "Meet people where they are at."
• "Don’t be afraid to say I don’t know."

Organisers have confirmed there will be a follow‑up session in Bathurst in 2026.

The partnership between the Centre and Western NSW LHD shows what can be achieved when organisations and communities work together to create change. You can read the event report which includes outcomes and next steps here: 2025 Community Conference

Easy Read coming soon.