Lipedema World Congress 2027 Logo

FREQUENTLY

ASKED QUESTIONS

Registration & Eligibility

Who can register for the Lipedema World Congress?

Registration is open to doctors, surgeons, nurses, allied health professionals, researchers, students, other health-related professionals, and representatives of registered patient organisations. The congress is a scientific event designed for professionals and those working in the lipedema field.

Is the congress open to patients and the general public?

No. The Lipedema World Congress is a scientific congress and is not open to patients or the general public. It is intended for clinicians, researchers, and other health professionals.

I’m a patient advocate / representative of a patient organisation. Can I attend?

Yes, patient organisation representatives may attend, provided they are part of a registered not-for-profit patient organisation in their home country. You will be asked to provide details of your organisation and your role during registration.

What registration categories are available?

Registration categories are:

  • Dr / Surgeon
  • Medical / Nursing / Allied Health Student
  • Other Professionals
  • Patient Organisation Representative

Members of the Lipedema World Alliance and Lipoedema Australia also receive discounted member rates.

What is included in my registration fee?

Your Lipedema World Congress registration includes:

  • Access to the main congress program (12–14 November 2027)
  • Welcome Reception
  • Exhibition access
  • On-demand access to recorded congress sessions
  • Catering on main congress days (morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea)

Pre-Congress sessions (11 November) and the Gala Dinner are available at additional cost.

Can I register for both the Lipedema World Congress and the Lipoedema Australia Conference?

The Lipoedema Australia Conference (LAC) is ticketed separately. LWC delegates may request access to LAC sessions (at no additional cost), where there is sufficient room capacity on the day.

While we will do our best to accommodate requests, LAC retains discretion over admission and room allocations, and holding an LWC ticket does not guarantee entry to LAC sessions.

LWC delegates will have the option to request access to on-demand replays of LAC sessions after the event.

Are there group or early-bird discounts?

We offer early-bird registration rates until the advertised deadline, after which standard rates apply.

Discounted member rates are available for members of the Lipedema World Alliance and Lipoedema Australia.

Group discounts are not currently available.

What is your refund / cancellation policy?
  1. Cancellations made 21 days or more in advance of the Event commencement date, will receive a full refund, less a $50 administration fee. 
  • Cancellations made within 15 – 20 days of the Event commencement date, will receive a full refund, less a $75 administration fee.
  • No refund is provided for cancellations less than 15 days prior to the Event commencement date.


We encourage you to secure travel insurance, as we cannot offer refunds for travel or accommodation costs.

Can I transfer my registration to someone else?

Registration transfers may be permitted up to 10 October, 2027, subject to an administration fee and approval by the organisers. Requests must be made in writing to the organisers.

Abstracts & Scientific Program

Who can submit an abstract?

Abstracts are invited from researchers, clinicians, and other health professionals working in lipedema and related fields. Submissions are welcomed from all disciplines contributing to lipedema science and care.

What types of submissions are accepted (e.g., original research, case reports, reviews)?

We accept a range of submission types, including original research, clinical audits, case series/reports, systematic reviews, and quality improvement projects related to lipedema. Detailed categories and eligibility criteria will be outlined in the Call for Abstracts guidelines.

What is the deadline for abstract submission?

The abstract submission deadline is noted on the Call for Abstracts page. Late submissions will not be accepted. Please refer to the Call for Abstracts page for exact dates and any extensions.

Is there a fee to submit an abstract?

There is no fee to submit an abstract. However, if your abstract is accepted, at least one author is required to register for the congress to present the work.

In what language must abstracts be submitted?

All abstracts must be submitted in English.

What is the word limit and required structure for abstracts?

Abstracts must not exceed the word limit outlined on the Call for Abstracts page, excluding title and authors. Submissions should follow a structured format as specified in the Call for Abstracts guidelines.

Can I submit more than one abstract?

Yes, you may submit more than one abstract. Each submission will be reviewed independently on its merit.

Can I withdraw or edit my abstract after submission?

You may edit your abstract before the submission deadline. After the deadline, no further changes can be made. If you need to withdraw an abstract, please contact the scientific committee as soon as possible.

How will I know if my abstract has been accepted?

All submitting authors will be notified of the outcome by email. The decision of the scientific committee is final.

Will accepted abstracts be published (e.g., in a supplement or journal)?

We are exploring options for publication of accepted abstracts (e.g., in an online supplement or partner journal). Final arrangements will be confirmed and communicated to authors in due course.

Do presenting authors need to register for the congress?

Yes. At least one author of each accepted abstract must register for the congress and present the work in person at the congress.

Pre-Congress Program

Is there a Pre-Congress program, and what does it include?

Yes. A Pre-Congress program will be held on 11 November 2027, featuring workshops, masterclasses, and training sessions focused on lipoedema assessment, management, and research methods. The full schedule and session descriptions will be published closer to the event.

Who is the Pre-Congress program designed for?

The Pre-Congress program is designed for clinicians, researchers, and allied health professionals who want deeper, skills-focused training in lipoedema care and research. Some sessions may be more relevant to specific disciplines; this will be indicated in the session descriptions.

Do I need to register separately for Pre-Congress sessions?

Yes. Pre-Congress sessions require separate registration and are not included in the main congress ticket. You can add Pre-Congress sessions to your registration when you book.

Are Pre-Congress sessions included in the main registration fee, or are there additional costs?

Pre-Congress sessions are not included in the main registration fee and carry an additional cost. Pricing will vary by session and will be listed during registration.

Will Pre-Congress sessions be recorded and available on demand?

At this stage, Pre-Congress sessions will not be recorded and will only be available to those who attend in person. This may change; any updates will be communicated to registered delegates.

Do Pre-Congress sessions offer separate CPD/CME credit?

Yes. Pre-Congress sessions are expected to be eligible for separate CPD/CME credit, subject to final accreditation. Details of claimable hours will be provided in the Pre-Congress program.

What is the cancellation or refund policy for Pre-Congress sessions?

Pre-Congress sessions will follow the same refund timeline as the main congress.

Visas & Invitation Letters

Do I need a visa to attend the congress in Australia?

Many international visitors require a visa to enter Australia. Requirements depend on your nationality and passport. We recommend checking the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website as early as possible. See more information on the Getting to Australia page.

Can you provide a letter of invitation to support my visa application?

Yes. We can provide a letter of invitation to support your visa application for all registered delegates. Please note that an invitation letter does not guarantee that a visa will be granted. Letters can be requested via the Getting to Australia or Contact Us pages.

Who is eligible to request an invitation letter?

All registered delegates of the Lipedema World Congress are eligible to request a letter of invitation.

When should I request an invitation letter?

We recommend requesting your letter as part of your registration, and no later than 8 weeks before the congress (mid-September 2027), to allow sufficient time for visa processing.

What information do you need from me to issue an invitation letter?

To issue your letter, we will typically require:

  • Full name (as it appears on your passport)
  • Date of birth
  • Nationality
  • Passport number
  • Organisation and job title
  • Registration confirmation number

Additional details may be requested if required by your local consulate.

Does an invitation letter guarantee that I will be granted a visa?

No. A letter of invitation supports your application but does not guarantee that a visa will be issued. Visa decisions are made solely by the Australian Government.

How long does it take to receive an invitation letter?

We aim to issue invitation letters within 10 business days of receiving your request and all required information.

Sponsorship

How can my organisation sponsor the Lipedema World Congress?

Organisations can sponsor the Lipedema World Congress through a range of partnership packages designed to increase visibility, support scientific content, and facilitate engagement with delegates. A detailed sponsorship prospectus is available on request.

What sponsorship levels or packages are available?

We offer several sponsorship tiers (e.g., Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze) as well as à la carte options such as exhibition-only packages and event sponsorships. Specific benefits and pricing are outlined in the sponsorship prospectus.

What benefits do sponsors receive?

Benefits vary by level but may include:

  • Logo placement on the congress website, programme, and signage
  • Branding in delegate communications and marketing materials
  • Exhibition space and/or booth upgrades
  • Invitations to key social events and networking opportunities
  • Opportunities for sponsored sessions or activations (subject to scientific independence policies)

Full details are provided in the sponsorship prospectus.

Can we sponsor specific elements such as the Welcome Reception, Gala Dinner, or Pre-Congress programme?

Yes. In addition to tiered packages, we offer targeted sponsorship of specific elements such as the Welcome Reception, Gala Dinner, Pre-Congress sessions, exhibition areas, and more. Custom packages can be developed to align with your objectives.

Will there be an exhibition hall, and can we book a booth?

Yes. There will be an exhibition hall featuring scientific and commercial partners. Booths can be booked as part of sponsorship packages or as standalone exhibition-only arrangements. Floor plans, sizes, and pricing are available in the exhibitor information pack.

Who should I contact to discuss sponsorship opportunities?

For sponsorship and exhibition enquiries, please contact sponsors@lwc2027.com or via the Contact Us page on this website.

Recordings & On Demand Content

Will congress sessions be recorded?

Yes. Main congress sessions (plenaries, panels, and selected presentations) will be recorded for on-demand access by registered delegates.

Will sessions be live streamed for remote participants?

No. The congress is an in-person event only. Sessions will not be live streamed for virtual attendance.

Who will have access to the recorded sessions?

On-demand access to recorded sessions is included for all registered Lipedema World Congress delegates. Access credentials will be provided via the delegate portal.

Will Pre-Congress sessions, workshops, and social events also be recorded?

Pre-Congress sessions, workshops, and social events will not be recorded. Only main congress programme sessions will be available on demand, unless otherwise advised.

Can I access the recordings if I only register for the Lipoedema Australia Conference?

Yes, though it will take some time. On-demand recordings of Lipedema World Congress sessions will be publicly available in the future. Release date of the recordings is still to be confirmed.

Will there be an additional fee to access on-demand content?

No, there is no separate charge to access the on-demand recordings.

Are there any sessions that will not be recorded?

Yes. Some sessions may not be recorded due to speaker preference, copyright restrictions, or the nature of the content (e.g., interactive workshops). This will be indicated in the final program and is subject to change.

If I cannot travel to Melbourne, can I still access any content online?

There is no virtual attendance option for the live congress. However, registered delegates who are unable to attend in person can still access the recorded on-demand sessions once they become publicly available.

Networking & Social Events

Is there a Welcome Reception, and who is invited?

Yes, all registered delegates for the LWC are invited to attend the Welcome Reception. Guests are also welcome, at an additional cost.

When and where is the Welcome Reception?

The Welcome Reception will be held on Thursday 11 November 2027, 6:00–8:00 pm in the Congress Exhibition Hall at the Crown Conference Centre, Southbank.

Do I need to register separately for the Welcome Reception? Is it included in my registration fee?

The Welcome Reception is included in your Lipedema World Congress registration fee. We ask that you RSVP to advise whether you will be attending to assist with catering numbers. Guest tickets can be purchased as part of the registration process.

What is the dress code for the Welcome Reception?

The dress code for the Welcome Reception is smart casual.

Is there a Gala Dinner, and who can attend?

Yes. A Gala Dinner will be held as part of the congress social programme. It is open to all registered delegates and their guests who purchase a Gala Dinner ticket. Delegates and guests from the Lipoedema Australia Conference will also attend the Gala Dinner, as a combined event.

When and where is the Gala Dinner?

The Gala Dinner will be held on Saturday 13 November 2027, 7:00–11:30 pm at an iconic Melbourne venue that will be announced soon.

Do I need to purchase a separate ticket for the Gala Dinner?

Yes. The Gala Dinner requires a separate ticket, which can be added during registration or later via your delegate portal (subject to availability).

Are partners/guests allowed to attend the Gala Dinner, and how do I register them?

Yes, partners and guests are welcome. You can register them for the Gala Dinner when you purchase your own ticket, or later through your delegate portal (subject to availability).

What is the dress code for the Gala Dinner?

The dress code for the Gala Dinner is formal / cocktail attire.

Will there be seating allocations or can I choose my table?

Final seating plans for the Gala Dinner are to be confirmed, and will be communicated to ticketholders.

Travel & Accommodation

When and where is the Lipedema World Congress being held?

The Lipedema World Congress will be held from 12 to 14 November 2027, with Pre-Congress sessions on 11 November 2027.

The venue is the Crown Conference Centre, Southbank, Melbourne, Australia.

Which airport should I fly into?

Most international delegates will fly into Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine), the city’s main international airport. See more information on the Getting to Australia page.

How do I get from the airport to my accommodation / the venue?

There are several transport options from Melbourne Airport to Southbank, including SkyBus, taxis, rideshare services, and public transport. Detailed information on routes, costs, and travel times is available on our Getting to the Venue page.

Do you have recommended hotels or accommodation partners?

Yes. We have reserved room blocks at three hotels within the Crown complex, all within the conference precinct.

Are there discounted room rates for congress delegates?

Yes. Special delegate rates are available at our partner hotels in the Crown complex. These rates can be accessed when you book your accommodation at the same time as registering for the congress.

Is there official congress accommodation I should book through?

We strongly recommend booking as part of your congress registration. This ensures you receive the negotiated delegate rates and are staying at our partner hotels in the Crown complex.

What is the best way to get around Melbourne during the congress?

Melbourne has an extensive public transport network, including trams, trains, and buses. The Crown Conference Centre is well served by trams and is within walking distance of many Southbank and CBD attractions. We will provide detailed transport information on our Getting to the Venue page.

How far in advance should I book my flights and accommodation?

We recommend booking your flights and accommodation as early as possible, ideally as soon as your registration is confirmed. This helps secure better fares and ensures availability, particularly during Melbourne’s busy spring season.

Venue & Accessibility

Where exactly is the congress venue?

The Lipedema World Congress will be held at the Crown Conference Centre, Southbank, Melbourne, Australia. The venue is part of the Crown complex on the Yarra River, within walking distance of many hotels, restaurants, and Melbourne’s CBD.

Is the venue accessible for people with mobility impairments?

Yes. The Crown Conference Centre is designed to be accessible for people with mobility impairments, with step-free access, lifts, and accessible routes throughout the main public areas.

Are there accessible toilets and step-free access throughout the venue?

Yes. Accessible toilets are available on multiple levels, and the venue provides step-free access to key function spaces, including plenary rooms, exhibition areas, and catering zones.

Do you provide hearing assistance or other accessibility services?

The venue is equipped with hearing augmentation systems in major rooms. If you require specific accessibility services (e.g., Auslan interpreting, assistive listening devices), please contact us in advance so we can discuss your needs and what can be accommodated.

Can I request dietary accommodations?

Yes. During registration, you will be able to specify your dietary requirements. We will work with our caterers to provide suitable options, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, and other common requirements. For less common or complex dietary needs, please contact us ahead of the event.

Will there be a quiet room or space for breaks?

Yes, we plan to provide a designated quiet or low-stimulation space for delegates who need a break from the main conference areas. Details of the location and availability will be included in the final programme and onsite signage.

Onsite & Practicalities

What are the congress dates and daily start/finish times?

The Lipedema World Congress runs from 12 to 14 November 2027.

  • Pre-Congress: 11 November 2027
  • Main congress days: 12–14 November 2027

Approximate daily hours are 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, with the Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner on separate evenings. A detailed timetable will be provided in the final programme.

Do I need to bring printed confirmation of my registration?

No. Registration will be checked electronically at the venue using the official Congress App.

Will there be Wi‑Fi at the venue?

Yes. Complimentary Wi‑Fi will be available throughout the Crown Conference Centre for all delegates.

Is there a coat check or baggage storage onsite?

A cloakroom or baggage storage area will be available for delegates during congress hours. Details will be included in onsite signage and the delegate app/information pack.

Will meals and refreshments be provided?

Yes. On main congress days (12–14 November), morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea are included in your registration.

Additional food and beverages are available for purchase at venue cafés and bars.

Is there a dress code for the congress?

The general dress code for the congress is business casual. Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, as you may be moving between sessions and exhibition areas.

Will there be a scientific exhibition or trade displays?

Yes. A scientific exhibition and trade display area will feature organisations working in lipoedema and related fields, including medical devices, compression garments, research bodies, and patient organisations.

CPD / CME & Certification

Is this congress accredited for CPD/CME?

We are applying for CPD/CME accreditation for the Lipedema World Congress. Final approval and accrediting body will be confirmed closer to the event.

How many CPD/CME hours can I claim?

The congress program is designed to provide approximately 30 hours of educational content over the three main days, plus additional hours for Pre-Congress sessions. The exact number of claimable hours will depend on your profession and accrediting body.

How do I obtain my certificate of attendance?

Certificates of attendance (and, where applicable, CPD/CME certificates) will be available for download from the delegate portal after the event, once attendance has been verified.

Will I receive a detailed program to support my CPD claim?

Yes. A detailed program with session titles, times, and learning outcomes will be provided to all registered delegates. This can be used to support your CPD/CME claim with your relevant professional body.

Code of Conduct & Safeguarding

Is there a code of conduct for the congress?

Yes. The Lipedema World Congress operates under a code of conduct that promotes respectful, inclusive, and professional behaviour. All delegates are expected to adhere to this code. The full policy will be published on the website and in delegate materials.

What should I do if I experience or witness inappropriate behaviour at the event?

If you experience or witness inappropriate behaviour, please report it as soon as possible to a member of the congress team, venue staff, or via the contact details provided in your delegate information. All reports will be treated confidentially and addressed in line with our code of conduct.

Are there specific guidelines for interacting with patient advocates and community representatives?

Yes. We ask all delegates to engage respectfully and professionally with patient advocates and community representatives. This includes using person-first language, respecting boundaries, and recognising the difference between lived experience and clinical advice. Specific guidelines will be included in the delegate pack.

Contact & Support

Who should I contact if I have questions about registration?

For registration queries, please contact info@lwc2027.com

Who should I contact about abstract submissions?

For abstract-related questions, please contact speakers@lwc2027.com

Who should I contact about visa invitation letters?

For visa invitation letter requests and related queries, please contact travel@lwc.com

What is the best way to reach the congress team?

The best way to reach us is by email at info@lwc2027.com or via the Contact Us page on the website. A phone number will be provided closer to the event for urgent, time-critical matters.

What are your typical response times?

We aim to respond to all enquiries within 2–3 business days. During peak periods (e.g., close to abstract deadlines or registration cut-offs), response times may be slightly longer.