(Commonwealth) The 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) will take place from November 3 to 8, 2024, in the vibrant city of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Hosted by the Parliament of New South Wales and the CPA New South Wales Branch, this significant event will focus on “Engage, Empower, Sustain: Charting the Course for Resilient Democracy.” The conference aims to explore vital issues facing democracies today, fostering dialogue and collaboration among parliamentarians from across the Commonwealth.
The 67th CPC’s agenda is filled with a diverse range of sessions and meetings aimed at fostering meaningful discussions among participants. Key highlights include the CPA General Assembly, where delegates will engage in a debate that shapes the future direction of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Additionally, there will be meetings of the CPA Executive Committee and the Interim Executive Board, focusing on organizational matters and strategic initiatives.
A notable feature of the conference will be the CPC Workshops and World Café Session, providing an interactive environment for delegates to exchange ideas and best practices. This collaborative approach encourages participants to delve into topics such as legislative innovation, public engagement, and the role of technology in governance.
Specialized conferences will also take place, including the 40th CPA Small Branches Conference and the 8th Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference. These sessions will specifically address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by smaller jurisdictions and women in parliamentary roles, respectively. Furthermore, the Commonwealth Parliamentarians with Disabilities (CPwD) network will hold meetings aimed at enhancing inclusivity within parliamentary practices.
In addition to these discussions, the conference will host the 58th Society of Clerks at the Table (SoCATT) meeting, where clerks and parliamentary staff will share insights and experiences related to their roles in supporting democratic processes. Another highlight will be the presentation of the 2024 Commonwealth Parliamentarian of the Year awards, celebrating outstanding contributions to public service and parliamentary excellence. The event will also feature the 2nd Emilia Monjowa Lifaka Lecture, honoring the legacy of prominent figures in parliamentary history.
The conference includes elections for key positions. The General Assembly on November 7 will elect the CPA Chairperson, and the Small Branches Conference on November 4 will choose the CPA Chairperson. Additionally, the election of the CPA Vice-Chairperson will take place during the new CPA Executive Committee meeting.
As part of the preparations for the conference, invitations have been extended to all eligible CPA branches from the CPA President on behalf of the host branch. Registrations for the event have been coordinated in advance, ensuring that all participants are well-prepared for the discussions ahead. In anticipation of the 67th CPC, a special supplement focusing on New South Wales has been published, showcasing articles authored by Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff. This supplement explores various topics, including the bicentenary of the New South Wales Legislative Council and the evolution of parliamentary democracy within the state’s political landscape. It is an informative resource for conference attendees, providing context and insights into the local political environment.
A dedicated website hub has been established for those wishing to stay updated on the latest news and developments related to the conference, featuring a full conference program and workshop reports. Attendees and interested parties can also engage with the conference through social media, using the hashtag #67CPC to share insights and connect with others participating in this landmark event.
The 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference promises to be a pivotal gathering for parliamentarians committed to strengthening democratic resilience across the Commonwealth. With a robust agenda and a diverse array of sessions, participants will have the opportunity to collaborate, learn, and advocate for effective governance that meets today’s and tomorrow’s challenges.
