Host an AWC

Expressions of Interest applications to host AWC 2027 and 2028 are now open. Applications close Sunday April 20, 2025

Hosting an AWC event is an opportunity for Pagan and witchcraft groups in Australia to provide a ritual and cultural experience for their wider community. In doing so, they contribute to the AWC’s rich history and its continued evolution as a living tradition in the Australian Pagan and Occult landscape.

The AWC takes place in a different location around Australia each year. Hosts are supported by the AWC inc. committee in event planning and facilitation where needed.

Apply to host the AWC.

For more information contact us.

What is the Australian Wiccan Conference?

The Australian Wiccan Conference (AWC) is a significant not-for-profit community event for those involved in Wicca and Paganism in Australia, fostering a sense of community, education, and spiritual exploration. It provides a space to learn, connect, and deepen one’s understanding of these traditions.

The AWC has run as an annual event for witches of all paths since 1984. The conference is traditionally held on the weekend closest to the Spring Equinox, with three days of workshops, classes, lectures, entertainment and socialising.

AWC events are held in different locations around the country each year, with different hosts and themes.

What is AWC inc.?

Australian Wiccan Conference Incorporated (AWC Inc.) formed in 2016 to take care of the AWC host selection process and provide support and mentoring for successful hosts. It does not directly run the AWC event as that is done by the hosts for each year.

Who can apply to host an AWC? 

The application process is open to anyone interested in hosting the AWC. To host, at least one member of the Host team must become a Paid Member of AWC Inc. You can join at any time to fulfill this requirement. Find out more about membership here

Hosting an AWC is rewarding but can be time-consuming. We recommend forming a team, whether an organizing committee or volunteers, to share the workload and make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

How is a host chosen? 

If required, a vote will be held. Paid Members of AWC Inc. will be provided with details of participating applications and vote on which application is preferred. The AWC inc. will meet to endorse the vote and let applicants know of the outcome. For details on the timeline see below.

What do we need to know before applying? 

There are a range of expectations, policies, and procedures that ensure legal and insurance requirements.. We are here to support you in understanding these. We highly recommend attending the ‘How to Run an AWC’ panel we offer for valuable guidance and insights or reach out to us for details. Briefly these include things like:

  • The duties of the hosts in managing various aspects of the event, from planning to post-event reporting.
  • Adherence to legal, financial, and organisational policies, including laws, risk management, and branding requirements.
  • Provide a framework to uphold the quality, accessibility, and inclusivity of the event.
  • Maintain regular communication between the hosts and AWC Inc.
  • Safeguard AWC Inc.’s reputation and traditions

What are the Traditions of the AWC?

The Australian Wiccan Conference (AWC) is built on a foundation of cherished traditions, and organisers play an important role in keeping these alive. They are outlined on our history page.   

What should you include in your application

We’d love to hear more about you and your vision for the AWC! You don’t have to have everything in this list but when putting together your proposal, here are some things you may like to consider discussing:

About You and Your Team

  • Share a bit about who you are and your background. What’s your experience with organising events? What strengths and unique qualities do you and your team bring and how will your team manage the workload of delivering an AWC? 

Your Theme

  • Tell us about the theme you’re proposing for the event. What makes it special, and how does it tie into the spirit of the AWC?

Workshops and Rituals

  • Give us a sneak peek at the workshops and rituals you would like to have. What new or unique experiences will you bring to inspire and engage the community?

Venue Ideas

  • Do you have a venue in mind yet? Let us know what makes it a great choice—think about things like accessibility, accommodation options (including camping), travel options, natural surroundings, and spaces for rituals and activities.

Budget and Affordability

  • Share your ideas for keeping the event affordable for participants while covering costs.

Safety and Accessibility

  • Tell us how you’ll ensure the event is safe, inclusive, and welcoming for everyone. What are your plans for accessibility, participant support, and emergency preparedness?

Sustainability Practices

  • Do you have ideas for making the event eco-friendly? Whether it’s reducing waste, sourcing local food, or other green practices, share how you’ll honour the earth while celebrating it.

Marketing and Outreach

  • How will you get the word out? Let us know how you’ll promote the event to ensure a fantastic turnout—social media, newsletters, community groups, or other creative approaches.

Community Involvement

  • How will you encourage members of the community to contribute? Share your plans for involving volunteers, presenters, and participants in creating a vibrant and collaborative experience.

Honouring AWC Traditions

  • Let us know how you’ll embrace and uphold the cherished traditions of the AWC while meeting any legal or reporting requirements.

Room for Innovation

  • If you have any fresh ideas for activities, workshop formats, or creative touches, feel free to share them! We’re always excited to see new perspectives and energy.

Feedback and Reflection

  • Do you have a plan for gathering feedback after the event? It’s a great way to reflect on what worked well and help shape future AWCs.

Application Timeframes

Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Opening of Expression of Interest applications
Email to paid members – Call for Expression of Interest applications

Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Public launch of Expression of Interest applications

Sunday Mar 16, 2025
How to Run an AWC: Online panel – Q&A and helpful tips

Sunday Apr 20, 2025
Closing of Expression of Interest applications

Sunday May 4, 2025
Publish proposals from host teams
Opening of vote on the Expression of Interest applications

Friday Jun 6, 2025
Closing of the vote on the Expression of Interest applications

Sunday Jun 15, 2025
AWC Inc. committee endorses the vote outcome
Applicants informed of outcome