We are inviting abstract submissions that speak to the ACOTS2027 theme, "Rethinking and Navigating Trauma in a Complex World." By bringing together research, policy, lived experience, and practice under this theme, ACOTS 2027 encourages submissions that explore how trauma is understood and navigated in an ever more complex and interconnected world. We are interested in emerging evidence, innovative ideas and diverse perspectives that examine one of the many factors that shape trauma and recovery, and help advance the implementation of knowledge into meaningful action and real-world impact.
Abstract Types
This year we're offering a range of abstract types to fit the type of knowledge transmission you prefer. These are varied and flexible to ensure that our delegates and audience members understand the latest knowledge, understandings, or innovative ideas in trauma. Click on the abstract types below to learn more about them.
This is a session delivered by one speaker, usually focused on a specific topic, research finding, project, or professional insight. There may be questions after the talk if time allows. Individual presentations will last for 12 minutes, with a few minutes for questions afterwards.
This type of session is a collection of 4 - 5 individual presentations centred around a chosen theme. The symposium members need to coordinate prior to submission to ensure that their topics link to the chosen theme and to agree upon a single title for the overall symposium. Each presenter within a symposium will be required to make their own abstract submission via the portal. The relevant portal submissions will then be linked using the symposium title entered. Symposiums typically last for 45 minutes.
This type of session is an interactive, engaging, question-and-answer-based or discussion format. About 4 – 5 experts, including your nominated Chair, will come together to discuss the chosen topic, either sequentially or collectively. Panel discussions typically last for 45 minutes.
Poster submissions are non-presenting submissions that allow you to create an academic poster as part of the conference. Your poster will be on show throughout the conference, with the delegates being able to see what your research involves. We will be holding a specific poster session when you can engage with attendees about your work and we will also be providing an award for the best poster.
For more information on what an academic poster is and how to design it, please click here
Flash talks are quick-fire presentations that last for only 3 minutes with a couple of minutes for questions. This type of presentation is challenging, but rewarding especially if you're a student who wants to get their research out into the world.
Masterclasses or Workshops may be 45 or 90 minutes in duration, and are intended to increase audience knowledge and skills around, for example, a clinical approach or research methodology. They are intended to be interactive and skills based, and presented by 1 to 2 subject matter experts who are experienced facilitators.
For the first time, we are inviting presenters to pitch a creative, participatory or experimental presentation format, rather than one of the above prescribed formats. Given this is a new type, the Organisers will be in touch to discuss any submissions made under this category. Alternatively, you are welcome to contact the organisers on conference@acots.com.au to discuss before making the submission.
Abstract Submissions Close 23 October
What happens after you submit?
After you submit your abstract, it will be blindly allocated to one of our abstract reviewers. They will score your abstract based on a set of pre-determined scoring criteria relating to its relevance, innovation, and rigour. When all of the abstracts have been reviewed, those who are successful will have a chance to present at the conference. For those who are unsuccessful, we hope that you still attend to hear about new advances in the field. Sometimes, the abstract type you submit may not be appropriate or it may be already full, so we may reach out to suggest an alternative form of presentation.
