2010 Conference

INSP's 15th Annual Conference: 17th-20th May 2010, Melbourne, Australia

‘Global Collaboration - Real Solutions'

The 2010 Annual Conference of the International Network of Street Papers took place in Melbourne, Australia, from 17th-20th May. The 15th event of its kind focused more than ever on network-wide collaboration and developing a more cohesive approach to poverty alleviation. INSP was delighted to welcome 63 delegates from 25 countries to Melbourne, for its 3-day conference and networking event.

The conference; Global Collaboration, Real Solutions, was hosted by Australia's street paper The Big Issue and took place in the Atlantis Hotel & Conference Centre. The event brought together a range of street paper representatives, for skill-building workshops, specialised consultancy sessions and best-practice exchange. In addition, an optional Training Day was organised for INSP street papers from the developing world, as well as other interested papers.

In addition to the usual programme content, this year's conference marked the start of more network-wide collaboration through several exciting projects. Plans for an ambitious global advertising initiative were pushed forward and the future of INSP campaigning and advocacy were explored. A highlight of the conference was the launch of the brand new Street News Service website, an exciting development for the entire street paper movement.

The conference activities were facilitated by ‘MC' George Halkias, of The Big Issue Australia. George also hosted the evening and recreational activities and entertained delegates throughout their stay in Melbourne.

On arrival in Melbourne, as part of a special Australian tradition, delegates were invited to attend an Aboriginal ‘Welcome to Country' Ceremony, performed by Joy Murphy, during a reception at the Carron Hotel. Throughout their stay, delegates were able to see a little of the city; having various opportunities for informal networking and site visits to innovative social programmes. These included a Gala Function and Reception at Charcoal Lane, one of Melbourne's top social enterprise projects, enabling Aboriginal and disadvantaged young people to gain work experience and receive personal skills training and accredited education in a supported, real work environment.

Other highlights included attending an Australian Football League (AFL) match at the impressive Etihad Stadium; dinner and networking at Hotel Spencer and of course the famous INSP soccer match at The Big Issue Australia's street soccer grounds. A very special night was also held at The Big Issue Australia's headquarters; members were taken on a tour of the atmospheric office building and enjoyed a delicious carvery dinner in the former church building on the premises. They were also treated to some amazing arts and writing performances by vendors of The Big Issue.

This year, INSP was able to provide financial assistance to more than 40 of the delegates attending - either with a full travel bursary or a significant financial contribution. This was made possible through INSP's ‘Global Sponsorship Project', with $30,000 (CAN) secured from the Ministry of Tourism in Quebec. INSP also secured funding from the Slovenian Ministry of Culture, the Austrian Embassy in Australia, and the Open Society Institute, for conference travel and delegate fees.  

Download the conference programme here.

Download the full conference report here.