From 11-12 March 2026, Brisbane hosted leading clinicians, researchers, and partners for the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine & EMF Research Symposium, exploring the remarkable achievements in emergency medicine research and looking ahead to innovations shaping care for years to come.
Two Days of collaboration, innovation and insight, the symposium brought together emergency care professionals from across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand for a dynamic program of presentations, panels, and discussions. Across two days, delegates reflected on the milestones that have shaped emergency medicine research, explored current challenges, and envisioned the future of the field.
The symposium opened with keynotes that set the stage for thoughtful reflection and inspiration. Prof Robert Neumar shared insights from his global experience advancing emergency care research, while Prof Carolyn Hullick highlighted the importance of collaboration and patient-centred approaches in improving outcomes for older adults. Dr Elizabeth “EJ” Marsden also captivated delegates with her work developing and evaluating prehospital emergency care models for frail older adults.
A running theme across Day 1 was the journey of clinicians into research. The “To PhD or Not to PhD” panel sparked lively debate on the value and challenges of doctoral study, while the Blue Sky presentations showcased bold, prospective ideas for tomorrow. EMF-funded researchers featured strongly, including Dr Akmez Latona, Dr Grace Xu, Dr Barbara Zangerl, and Dr Emma Whyte, sharing innovative project ideas ranging from paediatric procedural sedation to delirium screening pathways and acute behavioural disturbance management.
Keynotes and expert panels examined AI in emergency care, its ethical considerations, and practical applications, alongside presentations on multicentre trials, airway registries, and trauma activation systems. Highlights included the ARISE FLUIDS trial, presented by A/Prof Stephen Macdonald, the largest study of fluids vs vasopressors in septic shock across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and Ireland. Delegates also heard from Prof Steve Wesselingh, CEO of NHMRC, on national research priorities and funding strategies.
The Deep Blue presentations highlighted EMF-funded research, including work from Dr Henry Tsao, Dr Colin Banks, Dr Faye Jordan, and others. These presentations focused on prospective or ongoing projects, demonstrating how grants can support clinician-led ideas that are actively evolving, and how peer feedback helps shape interventions that will improve patient care and hospital workflows.
Beyond presentations, the symposium was a hub for connecting people across disciplines, states, and countries. Nurses, paramedics, allied health professionals, and hospital leaders engaged with researchers and peers, sparking collaborations that will continue to grow well beyond the two days of the event.
EMF’s support underpins innovation in emergency care, providing funding and mentorship that empowers clinicians to explore new ideas, test interventions, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
Explore the full gallery from the symposium and discover the research projects shaping the future of emergency medicine.
