FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Conference Registration
NDIS Guidance on Using Funds to Attend Conferences (as of 3 October 2024); In general, tickets to events or conferences are not considered NDIS-funded supports, so NDIS funding typically cannot be used to purchase them.
However, in some cases, a participant’s plan may include funding for specific workshops or training that support family or carer capacity building. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
We recommend speaking with your NDIS contact directly to discuss what’s included in your plan and whether conference attendance may be supported.
What's the conference early bird discount code and when does it end?
The earlybird code is "EARLYBIRD", and ends on June 30, 2025.
Are there discounts for family tickets to the conference?
FAST and ASAA have provided heavily subsidised caregiver pricing to help make the event more accessible. While family bundles are not available, please note that ticket prices help cover essential event costs such as catering and audiovisual services. If you're experiencing financial hardship, please don’t hesitate to email the conference committee here.
Can I use my person's NDIS plan to pay for the conference tickets?
NDIS Guidance on Using Funds to Attend Conferences (as of 3 October 2024); In general, tickets to events or conferences are not considered NDIS-funded supports, so NDIS funding typically cannot be used to purchase them.
However, in some cases, a participant’s plan may include funding for specific workshops or training that support family or carer capacity building. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
We recommend speaking with your NDIS contact directly to discuss what’s included in your plan and whether conference attendance may be supported.
What is the definition of a AS caregiver? Can siblings & grandparents also get the discount?
An AS caregiver includes anyone who provides care and support for a person with Angelman syndrome. This includes parents, grandparents, siblings and guardians. All are eligible for the discounted caregiver ticket.
Do people with AS have to buy a conference ticket?
We anticipate being able to use the National Disability Conference Grant to cover the cost of attendance for individuals living with Angelman syndrome. If they are self-catering, there will be no additional cost to you — and it allows us to stretch the grant further to support more families. We’ll share more details soon, but in the meantime, please let us know if you plan to travel with your loved one so we can better prepare and support your needs. You can reach the conference committee here.
Do support workers have to pay for a conference ticket?
It depends on the capacity in which they are attending the conference. If a support worker is attending for their own professional development and not supporting a client (person with AS) they should purchase a ticket in accordance with the "professional" rate. If a support worker is attending while actively supporting a client (person with AS) they can access the conference using the discounted caregiver rate. Families engaging a support person at the conference will need to comply with the participant's usual plan details regarding support hours payment.
Do children need to buy a conference ticket?
Children (10yrs and under) who are self-catering (i.e., not receiving conference catering) do not need a ticket. Any child participating in catered conference sessions, will require a ticket.
Payment
I'm having trouble with the registration and payment. What should I do?
Please reach out to the conference commitee here and we will be glad to assist you.
Are there any grants or subsidies available for families travelling with their AS person?
FAST has been successful in receiving a grant through the National Disability Conference fund. We are currently exploring the best ways to support families travelling with their person living with Angelman syndrome, within the limitations of the grant. We will be in touch with updates, but in the meantime, please let us know if you intend to travel with your loved one so we can better understand and plan for your needs. Email the conference committee here.
What if I want to attend the conference but can’t afford the conference fee?
If the conference fee presents a barrier to your attendance, please contact us. We’re happy to discuss individual circumstances and explore options to help make participation possible.
Are there discount codes for accommodation?
Yes, accommodation discount codes can be requested by contacting us. However, we’ve found that searching hotel booking websites and deal platforms often results in better prices than the percentage discounts offered off standard rack rates. We recommend comparing options to get the best value for your stay.
Can I get a refund if I can't attend the conference?
Refunds may be available depending on the timing and circumstances. Please refer to our cancellation policy on the ticketing page or reach out to our team directly here.
Conference Details
What is different about this conference compared to the last few? Why should we attend?
This is the second joint Angelman syndrome conference in Australia, co-hosted by FAST and ASAA. The first was held as COVID restrictions were easing, so some families may not have been able to attend. What makes this conference unique is the strength of the collaboration — combining the expertise of both organisations to deliver a truly holistic program that spans every aspect of Angelman Syndrome, from daily care and therapies to cutting-edge research and clinical trials. There has been siginifcant changes over the last two years in clinical trails, research, advocacy and everday life of AS. This is the best opportunity for the community to be informed.
It’s also collaborative in spirit — everyone is welcome to participate as much or as little as they choose. Whether you're a parent, professional, or supporter, the goal is for you to leave feeling informed, connected, and empowered.
Will there be activities for people with AS and/or siblings at this conference?
We are currently exploring options to see if it’s possible to offer activities for individuals with Angelman syndrome and their siblings during the conference. While nothing is confirmed yet, we’re doing our best to create a supportive and engaging environment for all members of the family. We’ll share more details as soon as they become available.
Will the conference be recorded and available after the event?
To keep costs as low as possible for attendees, and based on low view rates from previous years, the decision has been made not to record the conference sessions this year. However, we’re committed to ensuring that valuable information is still accessible. Key takeaways and important updates will be shared through summaries, slides, and other resources after the event for those who are unable to attend.
I have special dietary requirements. How do I notify these to the conference and/or Gala?
For the conference, you’ll be able to provide your dietary requirements during the registration process, which includes assigning your ticket and enrolling in the conference app. Please refer to the FAQ question about completing your registration for more details. For the Gala Dinner, you can list your dietary requirements when purchasing your ticket. If your specific requirement isn’t listed, please select “Other” and we’ll contact you directly to discuss your needs.
How do I use the conference App
This year, we’re excited to introduce a conference app designed to enhance your participation and overall experience. After purchasing your ticket, you will receive an email with links both to download the conference app (where the conference agenda will be attached a later date) and to manage your ticket.
It’s important to manage your ticket first—this allows you to log in to the conference platform and provide important details such as your connection to Angelman syndrome and any dietary requirements.
Social Events: ASAA Friday Evening Family Event & FAST Unstoppable Gala Dinner
Does the Full Conference ticket include the ASAA Friday Family Social event?
No, the ASAA Friday evening family social event is a separately organised social gathering and not part of the Full Conference ticket. This event is proudly subsidised by the Angelman Syndrome Association Australia (ASAA), finger food is provided at no charge. This will be a low key event for people to connect and chat post our first day of the conference. Although the event has no charge, we need registration so we can cater accordingly. Please email info@angelmansyndrome.org.au if you have any questions specific to the family social event.
Does the Full Conference ticket include the FAST Unstoppable Gala?
No, the FAST unstoppable Gala evening is a separately ticketed event and is not included in the Full Conference ticket. The Gala is a special fundraising event, with all proceeds going toward FAST Australia's programs and initiatives to accelerate research, support clinical trial readiness, and improve care for individuals with Angelman syndrome. By attending, you will enjoy a powerful evening of connection and celebration—while directly contributing to progress for our community.
Why is the FAST Unstoppable Gala price so expensive?
The FAST Unstoppable Gala evening is a special fundraising event designed to be a fun and memorable full night out, featuring a fully catered meal, drinks, live entertainment, and a beautiful venue. While there are costs involved in creating this exceptional evening, we’ve worked hard to keep ticket prices very low compared to similar charity fundraising dinners identified within the Australian market.
Please consider your ticket purchase as both a donation and a chance to enjoy a wonderful night with the Angelman community. Your support directly funds FAST’s programs for the coming year and beyond helping to build a brighter future for those affected by Angelman syndrome.
Can people with AS attend the Gala? If they don't eat or drink do they still have to buy a ticket?
Due to Australian liquor licenincing laws only individuals living with Angelman syndrome over 18 years old are welcome to attend the Gala. For those who may not eat or drink during the event, we still need to cover the overall costs of the evening, including the venue, staffing, and other expenses. Please contact us to discuss individual requests — we will do our best to accommodate them on a case-by-case basis.
What if I want to attend the Gala evening but can’t afford the ticket price?
As the FAST Unstoppable Gala Evening is a key fundraising event, it’s important for FAST to cover costs outlaid to both host the event and raise additional funds to support our mission. However, we want the event to be as accessible as possible. If the ticket price is a barrier for you, please contact us — we’re happy to discuss individual circumstances and will do our best to accommodate requests on a case-by-case basis.