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Rottnest Island - 19 - 21 October 2025
The ACRRM Emerging Leaders Conference is a new, annual event designed to support recently Fellowed members who are ready to grow their leadership potential.
This prestigious, by-application opportunity is for doctors who want to make an impact — not only within the College, but across the broader health system. Whether you're interested in advocacy, education, systems leadership or service innovation, this conference provides the tools, support, and networks to help you lead with confidence.
Held at the Samphire on Rottnest Island in Western Australia, the conference offers an immersive, collegial environment where you’ll learn alongside peers, mentors, and experienced ACRRM Fellows.
Program
A two-and-a-half-day program intentionally scheduled the weekend before Rural Medicine Australia (RMA) Conference providing a unique opportunity for attendees and facilitators to come together and learn.
- Ferry Fremantle to Rottnest Island - all attendees expected on the early ferry
- Program commences late morning - Welcome to Country, ‘ice breaker’ exercises, small sessions
- Welcome dinner
- Full day of sessions - coming soon
- Dinner
- Final sessions - coming soon
- Departures to Fremantle ahead of RMA - early afternoon ferry
Requirements for attendance
- Commitment to attend the entire ELC and participate fully
- Commitment to attend RMA at the completion of the ELC
- Completion of a post-event evaluation and testimonial
- Participation in follow up interviews and engagement by College staff, to profile and track outcomes
We welcome and encourage parents with newborns and their support person. Due to the immersive nature of the conference, unfortunately family members including small children, are not otherwise permitted to attend.
Backed by rural leaders
The conference is guided by respected recent ACRRM Fellows who are active members of the College’s Board and Council (pictured below): Dr Claire Arundell, Dr Shannon Nott, Dr Emily Harrison and Dr Jarrad Lenegan.
Their vision is to equip the next generation of rural doctors to take on leadership roles early and with confidence — ensuring ACRRM voices are represented at every table where decisions are made.
A Funded Experience
Successful applicants will receive a bursary from the College covering conference costs, including transport to Rottnest Island from Fremantle, accommodation and catering.
Attendees will be required to fund their own travel to the city of Perth and any accommodation required due to flight arrivals. This event has been placed on the weekend before RMA, to avoid duplication of travel expenses. Costs associated with RMA attendance are not included.
Who is this for?
This conference is relevant for new Fellows seeking support, confidence and tools to develop their leadership journey. It is not anticipated that candidates would already have substantial leadership experience, although that would not exclude you from participating. The program is designed to ensure a safe environment for sharing regardless of your experience.
Why apply?
- Build leadership confidence and capabilities in a supportive, inspiring setting
- Learn to navigate complexity, foster change, and shape future systems
- Connect with College leaders, expert facilitators, and other new Fellows
- Be recognised as an emerging leader in rural, remote and First Nations healthcare.