The ATANZ Biennial Conference is a major source of education and networking in New Zealand for people involved in assistive technology. The conference aims to meet the needs of people wishing to:

• Share information and exchange ideas
• Learn about new developments and research
• Be informed about assistive technology resources and products

The 2009 Conference Focus on Function was held in Christchurch from the 7 to 9 July. The keynote speaker was, Dr Sarah Blackstone,  world renowned for her research into social networks for children and adults who use assistive technology. She is currently a collaborative partner in the AAC-RERC research programme (www.aac-rerc.org) and publishes the widely distributed Augmentative Communication News.

Dr. Blackstone's keynote addresses focused on working with children to develop pragmatic language skills using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and providing AAC for adults with acquired communication disorders. A workshop focused on the development of social networks for people using AAC was also presented. A further 30 presenters delivered workshops and presentations based on technology developments, new service practices and experiences of people using assistive technology.

The next Conference will be in Auckland in 2011. Watch this space for updates.