Speakers and presenters

Zoe Terakes
Zoe is one of Australia’s most exciting writers, actors and commentators, and a powerful advocate for trans rights and visibility.
Their work spans award-winning screen, stage and literary projects, bringing a bold and compelling voice to conversations shaping our communities.

Mitch Brown
Mitch Brown is a former AFL footballer who played 94 games for the West Coast Eagles between 2007 and 2016. In 2025, he made history as the first AFL player, past or present, to publicly come out as bisexual, sparking important conversations about inclusion, visibility, and the culture of men’s sport in Australia.
Since retiring, Mitch has focused on social impact work, particularly in First Nations affairs, and currently works at Yamagigu, a First Nations–owned consulting firm, helping organisations build meaningful partnerships and drive change. He is deeply passionate about positive masculinity, wellbeing, and creating spaces where men feel safe to express vulnerability and authenticity.
A proud father to two young sons, Mitch draws on his own experiences, both on and off the field, to inspire others to lead with empathy, courage, and integrity. Through his story, he demonstrates that strength comes in many forms and that visibility and acceptance can transform lives, teams, and communities.
Mitch speaks widely on leadership, resilience, wellbeing, and the importance of being true to oneself, offering audiences a rare combination of personal insight, professional experience, and heartfelt advocacy for a more inclusive and respectful society.

Janet Rice
Janet Rice, former Australian Senator, is a long-time advocate for equality, inclusion, and social justice, and has played a significant role in advancing LGBTIQA+ rights, public health, and community wellbeing across Australia.
Janet has been the facilitator for the last year of the National Aged Care Alliance (NACA) a grouping of key constituencies across the aged sector – providers, consumers, professionals and unions – giving her unique insights into the current state of affairs.
