Next Gen Nurse Practitioners Conference 2026: Advancing AOD Practice
The 2026 Next Gen Nurse Practitioners (NGNP) Conference brought together Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) nurse practitioners, advanced practice nurses and clinicians for two days of intensive learning, collaboration and professional connection at Westmead Hospital on 4 and 5 June.
Designed as a boutique, highly specialised event, the conference combined evidence-based education with practical experiences relevant to the realities of contemporary AOD care. This year’s event attracted the largest gathering of alcohol and drug nurse practitioners in Australasia, providing an important forum for sharing knowledge and strengthening the profession.
Day One explored a broad range of clinical topics, emerging technologies and evolving models of care. Presentations addressed artificial intelligence in healthcare, hepatitis C treatment, medicinal cannabis, withdrawal management, psychedelic-assisted therapies, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, pain and addiction, smoking cessation using vapes, and developments in nurse prescribing. Delegates also received a national update on the nurse practitioner workforce.
These sessions encouraged participants to reconsider conventional approaches and explore how innovation can improve outcomes for people experiencing substance use disorders. Delegates reported that the breadth and depth of the program expanded their clinical thinking and strengthened their confidence.
Day Two shifted the focus to immersive, hands-on learning. Clinical skills stations, simulation activities and case-based workshops challenged participants to apply evidence-informed reasoning to complex scenarios involving withdrawal, pharmacotherapy and comorbidities.
The Pharmacology “Shark Tank” was a standout, testing rapid prescribing decisions in a lively environment that reflected the pressures of frontline practice. The Clinical Escape Room combined teamwork, problem-solving and advanced clinical judgement to create an effective and enjoyable learning experience.
Delegate feedback was exceptionally positive with participants believing content was relevant, practical and clinically meaningful. Core AOD sessions enhanced knowledge and confidence, while emerging practice areas, including ADHD, telehealth and pathology, were engaging and applicable to current care.
The success of NGNP 2026 reflects the value of focused, practice-aligned education for Australia’s AOD Nurse Practitioner workforce. By bringing clinicians together in a collaborative setting, the conference supported meaningful knowledge exchange, professional growth and renewed confidence. Delegates left equipped with practical insights, stronger connections and fresh momentum to continue advancing compassionate, evidence-based AOD care.
