NATIONAL CONFERENCE

NATIONAL CONFERENCE MELBOURNE 20 - 21 MAY, 2006

“INVESTING IN THE FUTURE, INVESTING IN THE DEMOCRATS”

If you believe, as we do, in the need to invest in the future and in the Democrats - to build a sustainable and a just nation - our National Conference is for you. This year it's in Melbourne on the Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st May, at 9 Darling Street, South Yarra. The Conference will reflect on the Howard decade - how the promise of sensible reform in those early years, such as gun control, funding reparation of the land and intervening in East Timor, gave way to an extreme ideology and a determination to hold onto power with conservative morals dressed up as values, short-term economics and fear. Where are the vision and the ideas needed to solve Australia's most pressing problems? We know we can deliver. We took the harshness out of IR and tax reform, we won stronger Federal environment laws, transport emission controls, greenhouse abatement spending and more. But what is required now for long term sustainability and for us to win back our place as the third force in Australian politics? How can we be a powerful voice for rights and freedoms, equality and fairness; to tackle climate change, water shortages and environmental degradation; to fix our inequitable health and education systems; and to invest in long-term economic sustainability through innovation, infrastructure, skills and education? Saturday is open to the public and features a great line-up of guest speakers. Join us too for dinner Saturday night at Rydges, Carlton. Sunday is for members to debate some contentious issues, discuss the role of the Senate, how we bring back balance, involve members and the wider community. You can now download the Indicative Program for the conference. Join Democrats Senators, MPs from SA and NSW and our speakers for an energising, thought-provoking conference.

NATIONAL CONFERENCE 20 - 21 MAY, 2006 9 Darling St, South Yarra MELBOURNE Online registration is preferred. Alternatively, please download the Registration Form (83kb pdf)

Full details of the Conference will be available shortly.  The following is a brief outline. Pre Conference Cocktails – Friday, 19 May Only 60 places available so book early.  Join our corporate donors at the AFL Hall of Fame (Level 2, 292 Swanston St Melbourne) for finger food, drinks and a “virtual” experience of Grand Final Day. 5.30pm start and 7.30pm finish. Cost $25. Conference sessions – Saturday, 20 May & Sunday, 21 May Saturday, 9.00am to 4.30pm, Nine Darling Street (Breakfast and Registration from 7.30am) Sunday, 9.00am to 3.30pm, Nine Darling Street (Breakfast from 8.00am) Fees are $150 for both days ($125 concession) or $85 ($65 concession) for Saturday only (open to the public) and $85 (concession) Sunday only (members only). Nine Darling Street is a function centre located at 9 Darling Street South Yarra. It is set in the heart of South Yarra, surrounded by beautiful botanic gardens and historic churches. www.gcholdings.com.au/ninedarlingstreet

Conference dinner – Saturday, 20 May from 7.00pm The Carlton Room at Rydges Carlton, 701 Swanston St Carlton. Test your trivia knowledge over a three course meal with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or orange juice on arrival. Cost $55. Public transport Trains: Third stop from city on train lines Sandringham, Frankston, Cranbourne and Packenham. The stops are Flinders St Station, Richmond then South Yarra and travel time is about five minutes. Then a five minute walk to Darling Street. Tram: Route number 8 travels from Moreland to Toorak with Melbourne city in the middle. Again a five minute walk to the function centre.  Rydges Carlton (our dinner venue) is also on this route. Accommodation The conference registration does not provide accommodation.  There are a number of Hotels/Motels in the vicinity. Download possible accommodation options and prices (20kb pdf).   The conference will be productive and exciting.  Please show your support for the Australian Democrats and start planning your attendance now. Download a printable flyer for the conference (107kb pdf)

NATIONAL CONFERENCE 20 - 21 MAY, 2006 9 Darling St, South Yarra MELBOURNE Online registration is preferred. Alternatively, please download the Registration Form (83kb pdf)