The Australian Institute for Intergenerational Practice (AIIP) hosted its 4th Annual Conference on February 21–22, 2025, at Torrens University’s Surry Hills Campus in Sydney. Themed “Connecting Generations for Life,” the event brought together practitioners, researchers, and enthusiasts to explore the transformative power of intergenerational connections.
The conference commenced with a keynote address by Professor Susan Kurrle, AO, a geriatrician and aged healthcare expert known for her work on the ABC’s “Old People’s Home for 4-Year-Olds/Teenagers.” Professor Kurrle emphasised the importance of fostering relationships between different age groups to enhance community well-being. Following that Associate Professor Katrina Radford presented a newly released impact study and its findings that Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds and Old People’s Home for Teenagers have had a notable impact in fostering social cohesion and inclusion in Australia.
Day two featured a plenary session by Dr. Mark Williams, a cognitive neuroscience researcher and author of “The Connected Species.” Dr. Williams discussed the neurological benefits of intergenerational interactions, highlighting how such engagements can improve cognitive functions across all ages.
A notable segment of the conference was the “Stories from the Field,” where various intergenerational programs shared their experiences and outcomes. One highlight was the Cross+Gen program by the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong, which pairs high school students with older community members to bridge the digital divide. This initiative was recognized with the AIIP Award for Innovation and Contribution. Led by motivational speaker, Annie Harvey, The Giggle Game got everyone off their feet for some fun! And supported by his daughter and grand-friend Hannah Forbes, Mr Lauri Badge gave an authentic account of his intergenerational experiences.
The event also showcased three-minute thesis presentations from emerging researchers, offering fresh insights into intergenerational practices. Interactive panel discussions provided attendees with opportunities to engage deeply on topics such as implementing intergenerational programs and addressing societal challenges through cross-age collaborations. The conference concluded with a panel discussion that encapsulated the event’s themes, leaving participants inspired and equipped with new strategies to promote intergenerational harmony in their communities.
