Sixth Annual Law of Religious Institutions Conference

Navigating the legal landscape can be a daunting task for religious institutions. From governance and funding issues to employment law and safeguarding policies, the array of legal challenges can impede the mission and growth of religious organizations. TEN The Education Network’s 6th Annual Law of Religious Institutions Conference is designed to empower leaders and administrators with the knowledge and tools they need to address these legal issues effectively. Learn from top legal professionals specializing in religious law, who will break down complex legal concepts into practical advice to help safeguard your institution’s mission and assets. Conference sessions include an update on recent employment law reforms, responding to allegations against clergy, as well as sustainability planning for the future.

We’ve made changes!

With the economy tightening we are keenly aware of the need to balance the cost of attending conferences and still provide the quality continuing professional development you are used to receiving from TEN.

• We’re back face to face in Melbourne but keeping the online option open for those who prefer it.
• This year’s conference will have an earlier finish on Day 2 so that those of you travelling from interstate have more options for catching flights home alleviating the need for an extra nights accommodation.
• To more easily fit with this new format we have reduced the sessions from 12 to 10, but provided 10 longer sessions.
• All delegates will receive access to the online recordings of each session – so you won’t need to worry about missing any sessions.
• And – most importantly – we’ve reduced the registration fee.

Day 1 – Thursday 17 October 2024

Workplace Issues in Religious Institutions

• The Freedom to Discriminate? Navigating Australia’s Patchwork Quilt of Law Reforms
• Closing Loopholes or Limiting Opportunities? Update on Recent Employment Law Reforms
• Taking a Risk Management Approach to Mental Health in Religious Institutions

Safety and Liability Issues

• Responding to Allegations against Clergy: A Guide to Best Practices
• Assessing the National Redress Scheme: Lessons Learned and Strategies for Religious Institutions
• The Door Left Ajar – Death of Perpetrators of Historical Abuse no Bar to Proceedings

Day 2 – Friday 18 October 2024

Legislative Reform and Future Planning

• Vicarious Liability for Acts Outside an Employer/Employee Relationship
• The Future of Regulation of Religious Organisations in Australia
• To be (benevolent), or not to be (benevolent)? The Impact of the revised Commissioner’s Interpretation Statement for Faith-based PBIs
• The Declining Church: Sustainably Planning for the Future