2026 LCA Aged Care Networking Forum: collaboration in action

The 2026 LCA Aged Care, Retirement Living and Community Services Networking Forum, held at AON’s offices in Naura House, Melbourne, on 7–8 May, was a celebration of the relationships, shared purpose and collaborative spirit that unite Lutheran organisations across Australia.

Bringing together leaders from Lutheran aged care, retirement living, community services and church organisations, the forum provided an opportunity to learn from one another, share experiences, explore emerging challenges and identify opportunities for collective action.

This year’s theme, ‘Collaboration – Stronger Together’, resonated throughout every session, conversation and networking opportunity. More than a conference theme, it became a practical expression of how our organisations can achieve more when we work together towards common goals.

We were deeply honoured to welcome the Minister for Aged Care and Seniors, the Hon Sam Rae MP, to the forum.

The minister joined delegates for networking drinks and generously remained with participants well beyond his scheduled time. His willingness to engage in meaningful conversations with delegates reflected both his interest in the sector and the significance of the work being undertaken by Lutheran organisations across Australia.

His presence was one of the highlights of the forum and a valued acknowledgement of the contribution faith-based organisations make to aged care, retirement living and community services.

From the AI and Cyber Security Pre-Forum Session on Wednesday afternoon through to the closing reflections on Friday, delegates embraced the opportunity to collaborate, challenge ideas and consider new approaches to leadership and service delivery.

The forum was expertly facilitated by Nathy Gaffney, from PHUEL, whose energy, insight and ability to draw out meaningful discussion ensured that every session contributed to the broader conversation about the future of our network.

A strong focus throughout the forum was the question: Why do we exist, and what can we achieve together that we cannot achieve alone?

This question became a central theme as delegates explored the future direction of Lutheran aged care, community service and retirement living organisations and the opportunities that emerge through genuine collaboration.

The forum featured an outstanding lineup of presenters who challenged delegates to think differently about leadership, governance, workforce development, technology and the future of care.

Together, these presenters provided practical insights, strategic perspectives and thought-provoking challenges that will continue to shape conversations long after the forum concluded.

This year, delegates also had the opportunity to experience the Lumin App, an innovative digital platform designed to strengthen community connection.

By using personalised logins, delegates could access profiles, locate fellow attendees, view their photos for easy identification, exchange messages and connect throughout the forum. The platform provided a practical demonstration of how technology can support connection and engagement in retirement living and community settings while enhancing the delegate experience.

The success of the forum would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors and partners. Their participation extended well beyond sponsorship, with many actively engaging in discussions, attending sessions and contributing valuable expertise throughout the event. We are also grateful to the people who supported different aspects of the forum.

One of the most significant outcomes of the forum was the commitment from delegates to continue working together on defining a shared purpose for Lutheran organisations across aged care, retirement living and community services.

We have gathered everyone’s feedback and will proceed to the next stage to develop our purpose statement in consultation with our members. Together, we will identify and prioritise collaborative projects that strengthen our organisations, support our people and enhance the services we provide to our communities.

The momentum generated over the two days has created a strong foundation for future collaboration, and we look forward to continuing this important work together.

To every delegate, presenter, sponsor and partner who contributed to the success of the 2026 Networking Forum, thank you. Your willingness to share, learn, challenge and collaborate is what makes this network so special.

We are already looking forward to gathering again in Adelaide in 2027.

‘Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labour. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion’ (Ecclesiastes 4:9,10).

Mary Sofoclis is the LCA’s Relationship Manager, Aged Care, Retirement Living and Community Services.

For further information or to share your feedback, contact Mary Sofoclis at mary.sofoclis@lca.org.au

Photos: Lutheran Care