2026 ANZCA CTN Strategic Research Workshop
The ANZCA Clinical Trials Network (CTN) is excited to bring the 2026 CTN Workshop to the Gold Coast!
Welcome
The ANZCA Clinical Trials Network (CTN) is excited to bring the 2026 CTN Workshop to the Gold Coast. This flagship annual event brings together more than 200 fellows, trainees, and research coordinators from across Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong to collaborate on new trial designs, explore cutting-edge methodology, and strengthen connections across our network. The workshop provides invaluable opportunities for networking, mentorship, and skill development for all members of our network.
Venue
The 2026 ANZCA CTN strategic research workshop will be held at QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise, Qld, 4217.
About the ANZCA Clinical Trials Network
The ANZCA CTN is a world-leading network of anaesthetists, trainees and research coordinators dedicated to designing and delivering high-quality, investigator-led clinical trials in perioperative medicine and pain management. These trials address clinically important questions that matter to practitioners, patients, and policy makers. With more than 130 participating hospital sites worldwide, CTN-endorsed trials have produced high-impact publications, influenced clinical guidelines, and improved patient outcomes across our region and internationally.
Aims of the 2026 workshop
The primary aims of the workshop are to:
Develop new research proposals and pilot studies that can progress to competitive funding applications for large, multicentre international trials.
Mentor and support fellows, trainees, and research coordinators to conduct high-quality clinical trials at their local sites.
Explore the latest topics in research methodology, trial management, and sector-wide developments.
Strengthen the research workforce by providing education, mentoring, and networking for early- and mid-career investigators.
The workshop provides a pathway for investigators to refine protocols and early-stage ideas through peer-reviewed feedback from experienced trialists, keynote statisticians and methodologists, and workshop delegates. Exploratory studies are supported through the ANZCA Foundation’s pilot and project grant schemes, generating the feasibility data required to optimise future large-scale grant applications.
Registration
Registration is now open for the 2026 ANZCA CTN Strategic Research workshop. Register online now to secure your place!
Registration is open to all ANZCA and FPM members, and members of the Clinical Trials Network and Anaesthesia Research Coordinators Network. Registration fees include: in-person meeting registration; all refreshment breaks, networking reception, or a subsidised cost for the ARCN networking dinner (anaesthesia research coordinators and allied health delegates); and the conference dinner.
Registration types:
• Full registration (ANZCA and FPM fellows and all other medical practitioners): A$1397
• ANZCA and FPM trainees, allied health professionals and research co-ordinators: A$852.50
Additional costs:
• ARCN networking dinner: subsidised cost of A$44
• Masterclasses: A$155 per masterclass
• Conference dinner: Complimentary for registered delegates. Guest tickets can be purchased for A$165
All registration fees are quoted in Australian dollars and inclusive of GST.
Key dates
The call for abstracts has now closed
The call for abstracts opened in early 2026 and closed on 17 April 2026.
Workshop dates
Friday 21 to Sunday 23 August 2026
The workshop opens with a networking lunch from 12.30–1.30 pm on Friday 21 August 2026, giving delegates time to reconnect before the plenary program begins. The afternoon will feature two concurrent streams: one on clinical trial operations for research coordinators and site teams, and another on research methodology for new and emerging investigators. Experienced researchers are strongly encouraged to attend to support collaboration and mentorship for the next generation of clinical trialists.
The main workshop will conclude on Sunday 23 August 2026 at 11.30 am, followed by a grab-and-go lunch.
Social functions
Anaesthesia Research Co-ordinators Network (ARCN) annual networking dinner
The ARCN annual networking dinner will be held on Friday 21 August, onsite at the QT Gold Coast.
Networking reception for trainees, fellows and collaborators
For delegates not attending the ARCN dinner, a networking reception will be held immediately after the program concludes on Friday 21 August. Delegates are then free to make their own dinner arrangements from 6.30 pm onwards.
CTN conference dinner - Secrets of the Sea
The CTN conference dinner will be held on Saturday 22 August at Southport Yacht Club (7 min drive) and is open to all delegates. Bus transfers will be provided to and from the dinner.
Join us for an unforgettable ocean-inspired evening celebrating the achievements of the ANZCA Clinical Trials Network. Delegates will enjoy a delicious entrée on arrival on the deck overlooking the marina, before moving inside for a seated main and dessert. The evening will also include the Emerging Investigators Prize announcement and door prizes in a relaxed underwater-themed setting.
For those wanting to dress up (entirely optional), prizes will be awarded for the best individual and team costumes. For more information about the event and fancy dress guidelines, view the event flyer.
Morning run
An optional 5km morning run will take place at 6.45am ahead of the plenary program on Saturday 22 August.
Accommodation
A discounted accommodation rate has been negotiated for delegates at QT Gold Coast. We recommend you make your reservation as soon as possible to secure these discounted rates.
To book, visit the 2026 ANZCA CTN workshop accommodation booking website. Rates are subject to availability. Full prepayment is required at the time of booking, and a seven-day cancellation policy applies.
QT City View King Room or QT City View Twin Room
- A$299 per room, per night (includes daily breakfast for 1 adult).
- A$329 per room, per night (includes daily breakfast for 2 adults).
- Please note Saturday night will incur a A$40 per night surcharge.
QT Ocean View King Room or QT Ocean View Twin Room
- A$329 per room, per night (includes daily breakfast for 1 adult).
- A$359 per room, per night (includes daily breakfast for 2 adults).
- Please note Saturday night will incur a A$40 per night surcharge.
QT Ocean View King Suite
- A$409 per room, per night (includes daily breakfast for 1 adult).
- A$439 per room, per night (includes daily breakfast for 2 adults).
- Please note Saturday night will incur a A$40 per night surcharge.
Alternatively, delegates may wish to book via the QT Gold Coast website, which offers flexible rates and other special deals.
If you have questions or require assistance, please contact the QT Gold Coast Reservations Team via email or phone on +61 7 5584 1200.
Call for abstracts
Call for abstracts and Emerging Investigator Prize session applications are now closed. Due to the program reaching capacity, late abstracts cannot be accepted. Abstracts have been reviewed and triaged in accordance with the submission guidelines.
The Emerging Investigator Prize
The Emerging Investigator Prize at the 2026 ANZCA CTN Strategic Research Workshop will take place on Friday 21 August. This prestigious award recognises outstanding research contributions and aims to foster innovation and academic excellence within the ANZCA Clinical Trials Network. The winner will receive a A$1000 prize generously donated by the ANZCA Foundation.
Optional masterclasses
We're pleased to offer delegates the opportunity to attend optional 90-minute masterclasses on the morning of Friday 21 August for an additional registration fee per class.
Places are strictly limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that a minimum number of registrations is required for each masterclass to proceed.
Bookings and payment for one or both sessions can be made during the registration process. Unfortunately, places cannot be reserved in advance.
Registration includes morning tea from 10.15 to 10.45am.
Masterclass 1: Implementing the estimand framework in anaesthesia clinical trials (8.45-10.15 am) by A/Prof Sabine Braat
This masterclass will cover estimands in anaesthesia clinical trials. Clinical trials aim to quantify the treatment effect associated with the primary study question. Estimating this treatment effect in a randomised trial can be challenging in the presence of post-randomisation events such as use of rescue medication or switching between treatment groups. These issues may lead to difficulties in the interpretation of the treatment effect estimate and affect the validity of the study findings. The estimands framework bridges the gap between the study objectives and the statistical analysis by adding clarity to trial objectives, informing the study design and data collection, and determining the choice of statistical analysis methods.
This masterclass is for fellows and trainees at various stages in their research careers, experienced investigators, and data analysts with an interest in or experience with clinical trial design and analysis.
Masterclass 2: Getting Started with effectiveness–implementation hybrid trial designs (10.45 am-12.15 pm) by A/Prof Ingrid Hickman
New to implementation research? This beginner-friendly masterclass offers a clear and practical introduction to effectiveness–implementation hybrid trial designs—innovative approaches that allow researchers to simultaneously evaluate clinical outcomes and implementation outcomes that inform delivery of interventions in practice. Through accessible examples and guided discussion, participants will learn when and how to use hybrid designs, understand different hybrid types, choose implementation outcomes to suit their trial contexts and gain confidence in applying these methods to their own research. Ideal for novice implementation researchers, this session provides a supportive foundation to help you bridge the gap between evidence and practice. You can bring your own trial concept to develop into a hybrid design, or use examples provided on the day.
Multicentre research satellite meeting
Gold Coast University Hospital and ANZCA Clinical Trials Network are pleased to host a multicentre research satellite meeting at Gold Coast University Hospital from 7.30 to 11.30am on Friday 21 August.
The program will feature Professor Philip Peyton presenting on ketamine and the ROCKet trial, a session on getting involved in research with Dr Matthew Bright and Dr Kanika Chaudhri, and a discussion on multicentre trainee research.
The morning will also include networking opportunities during scheduled tea breaks. Attendance is free of charge; however, registration will be required. Find out more about the program and to register on our event webpage.
SPANZA research meeting
The Society for Paediatric Anaesthesia in New Zealand and Australia (SPANZA) research meeting will take place prior to the CTN workshop on the Gold Coast on Thursday 20 August. It will explore new research protocols and methodologies, fostering discussion on the latest advancements in the field. Find out more about the program and to register on their website.
Continuing professional development (CPD)
More information will be available soon.
Sponsorship
Expression of Interest: Sponsorship opportunities for the 2026 ANZCA CTN workshop
The ANZCA Clinical Trials Network (CTN) invites expressions of interest from organisations interested in sponsoring the 2026 CTN Workshop on the Gold Coast.
Sponsorship will be considered from organisations offering high-quality products, technologies, or services relevant to investigator-led clinical research and perioperative care, and who are seeking to build meaningful, long-term relationships with the CTN community.
We value the long-standing support of partners across the clinical trials sector and warmly invite interested organisations to view the HCI prospectus and submit an expression of interest.
Sustainability
We remain committed to fostering a more sustainable future for our members and the broader community. Explore our sustainability initiatives for all our ANZCA events.
Notice of filming and photography
When you attend the 2026 ANZCA CTN Strategic Research Workshop, you’re entering an area where photography, audio, and video recordings may occur. By entering the event premises, you consent to the use of your image and voice through photography, video, and audio for use in ANZCA electronic and printed communications. This may include use on the ANZCA website, social media, in e-newsletters and publications, including the ANZCA Bulletin as well as other communications.
If you would prefer not to be photographed, please let the event organiser know. For further information, contact [email protected].
Contact us
For further information, please contact us.
Program outline
Friday 21 August - Stream 1
The workshop officially opens with networking over lunch, giving delegates an opportunity to reconnect before diving into the plenary program.
Stream 1: Research coordinator and research teams
Date/time: Friday 21 August, 12.30-5.20pm
Location: QT Gold Coast
Target audience: This stream is tailored for research co-ordinators, site investigators, and team members, including fellows and trainees, interested in running multicentre trials at their hospital site.
Session overview: This stream will explore practical approaches to recruitment and consent in clinical trials, including simplified and delayed consent models, participant-centred recruitment strategies, and current operational and governance considerations across the ANZCA CTN, along with practical realities of budgeting, resourcing and delivering multicentre clinical trials, from grant development through to site delivery. We will also examine trial timelines, operational challenges, international partnerships and governance considerations, alongside insights from experienced trial managers, investigators and grant reviewers.
Friday 21 August | ||
| 12.30-1.30pm | Lunch on arrival | |
Stream 1 | ||
1.30-3.10pm | Concurrent session 1: Clinical trial operations: Recruitment and consent | |
Welcome | ||
This session will feature guest speakers along with members of our network | ||
| Q&A discussion | All speakers |
3.10-3.40pm | Afternoon tea | |
3.40-5.20pm | Concurrent session 3: Budgets and resourcing: From grant success to site delivery | |
| Welcome | |
| This session will feature guest speakers along with members of our network | |
| Q&A discussion | All speakers |
5.30-8pm | Anaesthesia Research Co-ordinators Network (ARCN) annual networking dinner | |
5.30-6.30pm | Networking reception for trainees, fellows and collaborators | |
Program may change due to speaker availability.
Friday 21 August - Stream 2
The workshop officially opens with networking over lunch, giving delegates an opportunity to reconnect before diving into the plenary program.
Stream 2: New and emerging researcher methodology stream
Date/time: Friday 21 August, 12.30-5.30pm
Location: QT Gold Coast
Target audience: Fellows and trainees at various stages of their research career, statisticians, experienced investigators, research collaborators, scientists, and data analysts.
Session overview: This stream is designed for delegates at all career stages, from interested fellows and trainees to experienced investigators mentoring emerging researchers. It focuses on enhancing research skills and providing hands-on experience in clinical trial methodology and research design.
Emerging investigators session: This session will feature new research proposals by emerging investigators. Delegates will discuss study methodology, outcomes, feasibility, and impact, gaining valuable research development experience.
Friday 21 August | ||
| 12.30-1.30pm | Lunch on arrival | |
Stream 2 | ||
1.30-3.10pm | Concurrent session 2: Designing for impact: Protocol development to grant success | |
This session will feature guest speakers along with members of our network | ||
| Q&A discussion | All speakers |
3.10-3.40pm | Afternoon tea | |
3.40-5.30pm | Concurrent session 4: New proposals by emerging investigators | |
| New proposals selected from abstracts by emerging researchers will be presented here. | |
5.30-6.30pm | Networking reception for trainees, fellows and collaborators | |
Program times may change due to speaker availability.
Saturday 22 August
Saturday 22 August | ||
Plenary program (8.30am-4.55pm) | ||
6.45-7.30am | 5km morning run (optional activity) | |
7.45-8.30am | Registration, networking and coffee | |
8.30-10am | Plenary session 1: Opening plenary | |
Welcome and opening | ||
Keynote presentations | ||
10-10.30am | Morning tea | |
10.30am-12.10pm | Plenary session 2: Developing multicentre trials for network-wide delivery and funding readiness | |
| Introduction | |
| New proposals selected from free abstracts will be presented here. | |
12.10-1pm | Lunch | |
1-1.35pm | Plenary session 3: Business meeting | |
| Introduction | |
| CTN and ARCN business meeting | |
1.35-2.15pm | Plenary session 4: Trial updates | |
| Introduction | |
| Trial progress reports will be presented here. | |
| 2.10-2.40pm | Afternoon tea | |
| 2.45-4.10pm | Plenary session 5: Results and future research | |
| 4.10-4.55pm | Plenary session 6: PUMA Start up meeting | Dr Luke Perry and A/Prof Lachlan Miles |
7-10.30pm | Conference dinner | |
Program times may change due to speaker availability.
Sunday 23 August
Sunday 23 August | ||
| 7.30-8am | Networking and coffee | |
Plenary program (8-11.30am) | ||
8-9.30am | Plenary session 7: Implementation science | |
| Introduction | |
9.30-10am | Morning tea | |
10-10.50am | Plenary session 8: Changes in the paradigm for future clinical trials | |
| Presentation | |
| Panel discussion | All speakers |
10.50-11.30am | Plenary session 9: De-implementation is the only implementation that matters | |
| The Great Debate | |
| Closing remarks | Professor Tomas Corcoran (WA) |
11.30am-12pm | Grab and go lunch | |
Program times may change due to speaker availability.
Major sponsor
Exhibitors
The following terms and conditions apply to anyone registering for one of our events, workshops, conferences, forums or other activities.
Important information for delegates attending ANZCA-run events regarding the capture and publication of photography, audio, and video recordings.
We're always exploring new ways to reduce the environmental impact of the events and courses we run.
There are several ways you can give through the foundation, to support research and education programs needed to help continuously improve patient outcomes.
Our network of fellows, trainees, and research co-ordinators advance patient care and safety through multi-centre research.
Explore upcoming events and conferences in the clinical trials sector.
