About the Woodcock Public Lecture

The Annual Woodcock Public Lecture is Wellways’ flagship event — a platform that has been igniting conversations and driving change in mental health for over 20 years.

Established through the generous support of the late Frank and Patricia Woodcock, who tragically lost their son to suicide at the age of 31, the lecture stands as a living legacy of their commitment to improving mental health outcomes.

Held each April or May, the Lecture shines a spotlight on the most pressing issues in mental health today. Influential keynote speakers from across the sector offer fresh insights and bold perspectives — challenging stigma, breaking down social norms, and sparking conversations that inspire lasting change.

A speaker wearing a light blue scarf stands behind a lectern.

A Legacy of Insight: Two decades of the Woodcock Lecture

For over two decades, the Woodcock Lecture has served as a vital platform for critical discussions and progressive change within the Australian community mental health sector.
Continue Reading

Colourful banner reading: "The 23rd Annual Woodcock Lecture - Dignity by Design: Humanity in the Mental Health System.

24th Annual Woodcock Public Lecture

Join us for the 24th Annual Woodcock Public Lecture, hosted by Wellways.

How well do our mental health systems uphold the fundamental human rights and dignity of every individual?

Dignity by Design: Humanity in the Mental Health System is a crucial exploration into how human rights-based approaches can transform our mental health support systems. Led by a panel of experts, including those with lived and living experience, we will examine why current systems often fall short of centering humanity and dignity in care.

When: Thu, 29 May 2025 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM AEST

Where: The Wheeler Centre, 176 Little Lonsdale Street Melbourne, VIC 3000

Register now

Past Woodcock Lecture Highlights

Maggie Toko speaking at the Woodcock Lecture 2024
Trauma Unlocked: Woodcock Lecture 2024
The 2024 Woodcock Lecture ‘Understand Trauma; Understand Mental Health’ was held last night at the Conversation Quarter in Melbourne and livestreamed online.
Continue reading
Matt Ball Speaking at the Woodcock Public Lecture 2023
Woodcock Public Lecture calls for Humane Approaches to Distress
Being Human: Humane Responses to Distress’ was the topic that stirred up distinguished presenters, panel guests, and the live audience at the prestigious Wheeler Centre and online.
Continue reading
The panel of the 2022 Woodcock Public Lecture on stage
Public lecture puts lived experience at the top
Grassroots to Governance; Mental health lived experience in leadership.
Continue reading