FREQUENTLY

ASKED QUESTIONS

Registration & Eligibility

Who can register for the Lipoedema Australia Conference?

Registration is open to anyone who is interested in learning more about, and supporting those living with lipoedema. The program is targeted at lipoedema patients, their carers, partners, families and supporters.

While we welcome patient organisation representatives, clinicians, researchers and those working in the lipoedema field, this event is being co-located with the Lipedema World Congress, who will be running sessions targeted at this cohort.

I can't make it to Melbourne - can I attend virtually?

Yes, we are offering virtual attendance options for the Lipoedema Australia Conference.

Please note that the Lipedema World Congress does not have an option for virtual attendance.

What registration types are available?

In Person:

3 day (Friday, Saturday & Sunday)

2 day (Saturday & Sunday)

1 day (Friday, Saturday OR Sunday)

Carer tickets are available for 2 day and 3 day attendance.

Virtual:

3 day (Friday, Saturday & Sunday)

2 day (Saturday & Sunday)

Are there group or early-bird discounts?

We offer early-bird registration rates until the advertised deadline, after which standard rates apply.

Group discounts are not currently available.

What is included in my registration fee?

In Person

Your Lipoedema Australia Conference registration includes:

  • Access to the main conference program (for the days associated with your ticket type)
  • Launch Party (for those registered for 2 or 3 day program)
  • Exhibition access
  • On-demand access to recorded conference sessions for 90 days after the conference
  • Catering on main conference days for the days associated with your ticket type (morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea)
  • Delegate swag bag

Tickets to the Gala Dinner are available at additional cost.

Virtual

Your Virtual Lipoedema Australia Conference registration includes:

  • Live-stream access to the main conference program (for the days associated with your ticket type)
  • Virtual Exhibition access
  • On-demand access to recorded conference sessions for 90 days after the conference
  • Delegate swag bag
What is your refund / cancellation policy?
  1. Cancellations made 21 days or more in advance of the Event commencement date, will receive a full refund, less a $50 administration fee. 
  • Cancellations made within 15 – 20 days of the Event commencement date, will receive a full refund, less a $75 administration fee.
  • No refund is provided for cancellations less than 15 days prior to the Event commencement date.


We encourage you to secure travel insurance, as we cannot offer refunds for travel or accommodation costs.

Can I transfer my registration to someone else?

Registration transfers may be permitted up to 10 October, 2027, subject to an administration fee and approval by the organisers. Requests must be made in writing to the organisers.

Who can register for the Lipedema World Congress?

Registration is open to doctors, surgeons, nurses, allied health professionals, researchers, students, other health-related professionals, and representatives of registered patient organisations. The congress is a scientific event designed for professionals and those working in the lipedema field.

Can I register for both the Lipoedema Australia Conference and the Lipedema World Congress?

The Lipoedema Australia Conference (LAC) is ticketed separately to the Lipedema World Congress (LWC).

The LWC is not open to patients or the general public. It is intended for clinicians, researchers, and other health professionals along with representatives of registered patient organisations.

LWC delegates may request access to LAC sessions (at no additional cost), where there is sufficient room capacity on the day.

Access to LAC sessions for LWC delegates is at the sole discretion of the LAC team. While we will do our best to accommodate requests, LAC retains discretion over admission and room allocations, and holding an LWC ticket does not guarantee entry to LAC sessions.

LWC delegates will have the option to request access to on-demand replays of LAC sessions after the event.

Is the Lipedema World Congress open to patients and the general public?

No. The Lipedema World Congress is a scientific congress and is not open to patients or the general public. It is intended for clinicians, researchers, and other health professionals.

Venue & Accessibility

Where exactly is the conference venue?

The Lipoedema Australia Conference will be held at the Crown Conference Centre, Southbank, Melbourne, Australia. The venue is part of the Crown complex on the Yarra River, within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants, and Melbourne’s CBD.

Is the venue accessible for people with mobility impairments?

Yes. The Crown Conference Centre is designed to be accessible for people with mobility impairments, with step-free access, lifts, and accessible routes throughout the main public areas.

Are there accessible toilets and step-free access throughout the venue?

Yes. Accessible toilets are available on multiple levels, and the venue provides step-free access to key function spaces, including plenary rooms, exhibition areas, and catering zones.

Do you provide hearing assistance or other accessibility services?

The venue is equipped with hearing augmentation systems in major rooms. If you require specific accessibility services (e.g., Auslan interpreting, assistive listening devices), please contact us in advance so we can discuss your needs and what can be accommodated.

Can I request dietary accommodations?

Yes. During registration, you will be able to specify your dietary requirements. We will work with our caterers to provide suitable options, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and other common requirements. For less common or complex dietary needs, please contact us ahead of the event.

Will there be a quiet room or space for breaks?

Yes, we plan to provide a designated quiet or low-stimulation space for delegates who need a break from the main conference areas. Details of the location and availability will be included in the final programme and onsite signage.

Virtual Attendance

Who should choose virtual attendance?

Virtual attendance is for anyone who wants to be part of the Lipoedema Australia Conference but is unable to attend in person. It may suit you if travelling to Melbourne is difficult because of distance, health, energy levels, cost, caring responsibilities, work or other commitments.

Can I change from a virtual registration to an in-person registration?

Yes, you can upgrade to an in-person registration until the close of in-person registrations. Please contact laconference@lipoedema.org.au and the team will be able to assist.

Can I attend just some sessions in person?

If you would like to attend any sessions in person, you will need to purchase an in-person registration. In-person registration also includes virtual access, so you can watch sessions online if you need to rest, manage your energy levels or catch up on a concurrent session.

Will I receive a swag bag?

Yes. Virtual attendees receive the same swag bag as in-person delegates. Please ensure you include your full mailing address in your conference registration - we will not re-send any bags that are undeliverable due to incomplete or incorrect address details being provided.

Will all Lipoedema Australia Conference sessions be live-streamed?

All main LAC sessions will be live-streamed. Some activities or workshops may not be able to be streamed or recorded because of their location or the nature of the activity. The program will identify any sessions or activities that are not available virtually.

Will Lipedema World Congress sessions be included?

No. Virtual attendance provides access to Lipoedema Australia Conference sessions only. LWC sessions will be recorded, but they will not be available to virtual attendees during the Conference and will be released at a later date.

Can I ask questions during live sessions?

Yes. Virtual attendees can ask questions in any live session. Questions submitted online will go into the same queue as questions from in-person delegates.

What time zone will sessions be listed in?

All session times will be listed in Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT). Please check the equivalent time in your local time zone before the sessions you wish to attend live.

What if two sessions I want to see are on at the same time?

The Conference includes concurrent sessions. You can watch one session live and catch up on the other through play-on-demand access, which is available for 90 days after the Conference.

Can I use the Conference App?

Yes. Virtual attendees have access to the Conference App, participant directory and networking features.

Can I connect with other attendees?

Yes. You can use chat rooms and forums to connect with other virtual attendees, share experiences and take part in Conference conversations. You can also use the participant directory and networking features to connect before, during and after the Conference.

Can I connect with sponsors and exhibitors?

Yes. Virtual attendees can access the virtual exhibition area, learn about sponsors and exhibitors, interact with them online and arrange meetings to discuss their products or services.

Will there be a virtual exhibition?

Yes. While the physical exhibition area, meals and social events are not live-streamed, virtual attendees will have access to a virtual exhibition area. We will also endeavour to provide a video tour of the physical exhibition area.

What device should I use?

We recommend using the online portal on a computer, tablet or larger screen. While watching on a phone is technically possible, the portal provides a much better viewing experience than the Conference App.

What internet connection do I need?

You will need a reliable internet connection. A stable broadband connection is recommended for the best viewing experience.

When will I receive my virtual access details?

Access details will be sent closer to the Conference. We will send this information around 1 week prior and again the morning of the conference so that you have it easily to hand when you need it.

Can I share my login details with someone else?

No. Virtual access is for the registered attendee only.

What happens after the Conference ends?

Your play-on-demand access will remain available for 90 days after the Conference concludes, so you can catch up on sessions you missed or revisit those you would like to watch again.

Will sessions have closed captions?

Our online platform offers language interpretation but does not currently provide closed captioning. If you require captions, you may be able to use browser-based live captions or a third-party transcription app.

Is language interpretation available?

Yes. Our online platform provides language interpretation.

Who can I contact if I need accessibility support?

Please contact us at laconference@lipoedema.org.au and we will work with you to identify available options.

Who can I contact if I need have trouble accessing the platform?

Please contact us at laconference@lipoedema.org.au and we will work with you to gain access.

Recordings & On Demand Content

Will conference sessions be recorded?

Yes. Main conference sessions will be recorded for on-demand access by registered delegates.

Will sessions be live streamed for remote participants?

Yes - please see the virtual attendance section above for more information.

Who will have access to the recorded sessions?

On-demand access to recorded sessions is included for all registered Lipoedema Australia Conference attendees. Access credentials will be provided in the week leading up to the event, via the delegate portal.

Will workshops and social events also be recorded?

Workshops, and social events will not be recorded.

Will there be an additional fee to access on-demand content?

No, there is no separate charge to access the on-demand recordings. On-demand viewing is available for all registered Lipoedema Australia Conference delegates.

Are there any sessions that will not be recorded?

Yes. Some sessions may not be recorded due to speaker preference, copyright restrictions, or the nature of the content (e.g., interactive workshops). This will be indicated in the final program and is subject to change.

If I cannot travel to Melbourne, can I still access any content online?

Yes - please see the virtual attendance section above for more information.

When will recordings be available?

Recordings will be uploaded as soon as possible after each session. Please allow up to three days for a recording to appear on the platform. Sessions are not available to watch on a short delay while they are happening.

How long will I have access to recordings?

You will have access to available LAC session recordings for 90 days after the Conference concludes.

Can I download recordings?

No, recordings may be played on demand through the online portal, but not downloaded.

Sponsorship

How can my organisation sponsor the Lipoedema Australia Conference?

Organisations can sponsor the Lipoedema Australia Conference through a range of partnership packages designed to increase visibility, support scientific content, and facilitate engagement with delegates. A detailed sponsorship prospectus is available on request.

What sponsorship levels or packages are available?

We offer several sponsorship tiers (e.g., Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze) as well as à la carte options such as exhibition-only packages and event sponsorships. Specific benefits and pricing are outlined in the sponsorship prospectus.

What benefits do sponsors receive?

Benefits vary by level but may include:

  • Logo placement on the conference website, program, and signage
  • Branding in delegate communications and marketing materials
  • Exhibition space and/or booth upgrades
  • Invitations to key social events and networking opportunities
  • Opportunities for sponsored sessions or activations (subject to scientific independence policies)

Full details are provided in the sponsorship prospectus.

Can we sponsor specific elements such as the Launch Party, Gala Dinner, or specific sessions?

Yes. In addition to tiered packages, we offer targeted sponsorship of specific elements such as the Launch Party, Gala Dinner, workshops, exhibition areas, and more. Custom packages can be developed to align with your objectives.

Will there be an exhibition hall, and can we book a booth?

Yes. There will be an exhibition hall featuring scientific and commercial partners. Booths can be booked as part of sponsorship packages or as standalone exhibition-only arrangements. Floor plans, sizes, and pricing are available in the exhibitor information pack.

Who should I contact to discuss sponsorship opportunities?

For sponsorship and exhibition enquiries, please contact laconference@lipoedema.org.au or via the Contact Us page on this website.

Abstracts & Program

Who can submit an abstract?

Abstracts are invited from patients, advocates, supporters, researchers, clinicians, and other health professionals working in lipoedema and related fields. Submissions are welcomed from all disciplines contributing to lipoedema science and care.

What types of submissions are accepted?

We accept a range of submission types, including but not limited to, lived experience, discussion papers, original research, systematic reviews, and quality improvement projects related to lipoedema. Detailed categories and eligibility criteria will be outlined in the Call for Abstracts guidelines.

What is the deadline for abstract submission?

The abstract submission deadline is noted on the Call for Abstracts page. Late submissions will not be accepted. Please refer to the Call for Abstracts page for exact dates and any extensions.

Is there a fee to submit an abstract?

There is no fee to submit an abstract. However, if your abstract is accepted, at least one author is required to register for the conference to present the work.

In what language must abstracts be submitted?

All abstracts must be submitted in English.

What is the word limit and required structure for abstracts?

Abstracts must not exceed the word limit outlined on the Call for Abstracts page, excluding title and authors. Submissions should follow a structured format as specified in the Call for Abstracts guidelines.

Can I submit more than one abstract?

Yes, you may submit more than one abstract. Each submission will be reviewed independently on its merit.

Can I withdraw or edit my abstract after submission?

You may edit your abstract before the submission deadline. After the deadline, no further changes can be made. If you need to withdraw an abstract, please contact the organising committee as soon as possible.

How will I know if my abstract has been accepted?

All submitting authors will be notified of the outcome by email. The decision of the organising committee is final.

Do presenting authors need to register for the conference?

Yes. At least one author of each accepted abstract must register for the conference and present the work in person at the conference.

Networking & Social Events

Is there a Launch Party, and who is invited?

Yes, all delegates with a 2 or 3 day registration for the LAC are invited to attend the Launch Party. Single day ticket holders and guests are also welcome, at an additional cost.

When and where is the Launch Party?

The Launch Party will be held on Friday 12 November 2027, 6:00–8:00 pm in the Congress Exhibition Hall at the Crown Conference Centre, Southbank.

Do I need to register separately for the Launch Party? Is it included in my registration fee?

The Launch Party is included in your 2 or 3 day Lipoedema Australia Conference registration fee. We ask that you RSVP to advise whether you will be attending to assist with catering numbers. Guest tickets can be purchased as part of the registration process.

What is the dress code for the Launch Party?

The dress code for the Launch Party is whatever you would like it to be. Be comfortable, be snazzy, be you!

Is there a Gala Dinner, and who can attend?

Yes. A Gala Dinner will be held as part of the congress social programme. It is open to all registered delegates and their guests who purchase a Gala Dinner ticket. Delegates and guests from the Lipedema World Congress will also attend the Gala Dinner, as a combined event.

When and where is the Gala Dinner?

The Gala Dinner will be held on Saturday 13 November 2027, 7:00–11:30 pm at an iconic Melbourne venue that will be announced soon.

Do I need to purchase a separate ticket for the Gala Dinner?

Yes. The Gala Dinner requires a separate ticket, which can be added during registration or later via your delegate portal (subject to availability).

Are partners/guests allowed to attend the Gala Dinner, and how do I register them?

Yes, partners and guests are welcome. You can register them for the Gala Dinner when you purchase your own ticket, or later through your delegate portal (subject to availability).

What is the dress code for the Gala Dinner?

The dress code for the Gala Dinner is formal / cocktail attire.

Will there be seating allocations or can I choose my table?

Final seating plans for the Gala Dinner are to be confirmed, and will be communicated to ticketholders.

Onsite & Practicalities

What are the conference dates and daily start/finish times?

The Lipoedema Australia Conference runs from 12 to 14 November 2027.

  • Conference days: 12–14 November 2027

Approximate daily hours are 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, with the Launch Party and Gala Dinner on separate evenings. A detailed timetable will be provided in the final program.

Do I need to bring printed confirmation of my registration?

No. Registration will be checked electronically at the venue using the official Conference App.

Will there be Wi‑Fi at the venue?

Yes. Complimentary Wi‑Fi will be available throughout the Crown Conference Centre for all delegates.

Is there a coat check or baggage storage onsite?

A cloakroom or baggage storage area will be available for delegates during conference hours. Details will be included in onsite signage and the delegate app/information pack.

Will meals and refreshments be provided?

Yes. On main conference days (12–14 November), morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea are included in your registration.

Additional food and beverages are available for purchase at venue cafés and bars.

Is there a dress code for the conference?

The general dress code for the conference is comfortable casual. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, as you may be moving between sessions and exhibition areas.

Will there be an exhibition or trade displays?

Yes. An exhibition and trade display area will feature organisations working in lipoedema and related fields, including medical devices, compression garments, research bodies, and patient organisations.

Code of Conduct & Safeguarding

Is there a code of conduct for the conference?

Yes. The Lipoedema Australia Conference operates under a code of conduct that promotes respectful, inclusive, and professional behaviour. All delegates are expected to adhere to this code. The full policy will be published on the website and in delegate materials.

What should I do if I experience or witness inappropriate behaviour at the event?

If you experience or witness inappropriate behaviour, please report it as soon as possible to a member of the conference team, venue staff, or via the contact details provided in your delegate information. All reports will be treated confidentially and addressed in line with our code of conduct.

Are there specific guidelines for interacting with patient advocates and community representatives?

Yes. We ask all delegates to engage respectfully and professionally, particularly with interactions between clinicians, patients, patient advocates and community representatives. This includes using person-first language, respecting boundaries, and recognising the difference between lived experience and clinical advice. Specific guidelines will be included in the delegate pack.

Travel & Accommodation

When and where is the Lipoedema Australia Conference being held?

The Lipoedema Australia Conference will be held from 12 to 14 November 2027.

The venue is the Crown Conference Centre, Southbank, Melbourne, Australia.

Which airport should I fly into?

Most international delegates will fly into Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), the city’s main international airport. See more information on the Getting to Australia page.

How do I get from the airport to my accommodation / the venue?

There are several transport options from Melbourne Airport to Southbank, including SkyBus, taxis, rideshare services, and public transport. Detailed information on routes, costs, and travel times is available on our Getting to the Venue page.

Do you have recommended hotels or accommodation partners?

Yes. We have reserved room blocks at three hotels within the Crown complex, all within the conference precinct.

Are there discounted room rates for conference attendees?

Yes. Special rates are available at our partner hotels in the Crown complex. These rates can be accessed when you book your accommodation at the same time as registering for the conference.

Is there official conference accommodation I should book through?

We strongly recommend booking as part of your conference registration. This ensures you receive the negotiated delegate rates and are staying at our partner hotels in the Crown complex.

What is the best way to get around Melbourne during the conference?

Melbourne has an extensive public transport network, including trams, trains, and buses. The Crown Conference Centre is well served by trams and is within walking distance of many Southbank and CBD attractions. We will provide detailed transport information on our Getting to the Venue page.

How far in advance should I book my flights and accommodation?

We recommend booking your flights and accommodation as early as possible, ideally as soon as your registration is confirmed. This helps secure better fares and ensures availability, particularly during Melbourne’s busy spring season.

Visas & Invitation Letters

Do I need a visa to attend the conference in Australia?

Many international visitors require a visa to enter Australia. Requirements depend on your nationality and passport. We recommend checking the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website as early as possible. See more information on the Getting to Australia page.

Can you provide a letter of invitation to support my visa application?

Yes. We can provide a letter of invitation to support your visa application for all registered delegates. Please note that an invitation letter does not guarantee that a visa will be granted. Letters can be requested via the Contact Us page.

Who is eligible to request an invitation letter?

All registered international delegates of the Lipoedema Australia Conference are eligible to request a letter of invitation.

When should I request an invitation letter?

We recommend requesting your letter as part of your registration, and no later than 8 weeks before the conference (mid-September 2027), to allow sufficient time for visa processing.

What information do you need from me to issue an invitation letter?

To issue your letter, we will typically require:

  • Full name (as it appears on your passport)
  • Date of birth
  • Nationality
  • Passport number
  • Organisation and job title
  • Registration confirmation number

Additional details may be requested if required by your local consulate.

Does an invitation letter guarantee that I will be granted a visa?

No. A letter of invitation supports your application but does not guarantee that a visa will be issued. Visa decisions are made solely by the Australian Government.

How long does it take to receive an invitation letter?

We aim to issue invitation letters within 10 business days of receiving your request and all required information.

Contact & Support

Who should I contact if I have questions about registration?

For registration queries, please contact laconference@lipoedema.org.au

Who should I contact about abstract submissions?

For abstract-related questions, please contact laconference@lipoedema.org.au

Who should I contact about visa invitation letters?

For visa invitation letter related queries, please contact laconference@lipoedema.org.au

What is the best way to reach the conference team?

The best way to reach us is by email at laconference@lipoedema.org.au or via the Contact Us page on the website. A phone number will be provided closer to the event for urgent, time-critical matters.

What are your typical response times?

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 2–3 business days. During peak periods (e.g., close to abstract deadlines or registration cut-offs), response times may be slightly longer.