2026 Cumberland Plain Research Symposium
About the Event
Join us for the 2026 Cumberland Plain Research Symposium, a one-day event bringing together researchers, policymakers, practitioners and community partners to explore how we can better connect knowledge, practice and people to improve conservation outcomes across Western Sydney.
The Symposium focuses on the relationships between people, on-ground restoration and conservation actions, and applied research, and how these can collectively inform decision-making and real-world outcomes.
Hosted by the Cumberland Plain Research Program, the event will feature keynote presentations, invited and selected talks, and opportunities to engage with leading work across government, research and delivery organisations.
The 2026 Symposium places a strong emphasis on Aboriginal knowledge and perspectives, alongside practical insights from those delivering conservation and restoration on the ground.
What to Expect
The 2026 Symposium will bring together a diverse range of perspectives across:
Government and policy
On-ground restoration and conservation delivery
Research and applied science
Community and knowledge holders
The program will include:
Keynote presentations
Invited and selected talks
Opportunities to connect across sectors
THURSDAY, 6 AUGUST 2026
WESTERN SYDNEY UNIVERSITY, PARRAMATTA CITY CAMPUS
Bringing together researchers, practitioners, policy and community to share insights, connect across sectors and support evidence-based conservation.
Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea are included in the registration fee of $50 + GST.
Program Overview
Morning:
Exploring the role of people, knowledge and practice in shaping conservation outcomes
Midday
On-ground restoration and conservation actions
Afternoon
Applied research informing decisions and practice
Call for Abstracts
We invite expressions of interest from researchers, practitioners and partners to present at the 2026 Cumberland Plain Research Symposium.
We welcome submissions for:
Oral presentations
5-minute or 15-minute talks
Poster presentations
Ideal for sharing projects, emerging findings and applied practice
Topics may include:
Applied ecological research
On-ground restoration and conservation delivery
Knowledge exchange and collaboration
Caring for Country approaches
Policy, planning and decision-making
Key dates:
Talk submissions close: 10 June 2026
Poster submissions close: 26 June 2026
Outcomes: late June – early July