Melbourne Forum gives you access to the highest level of expertise and real-world lessons that our conversation leaders – all with a reputation for excellence – bring to the table under the Chatham House rule.
We are committed to providing a platform for, and the increased visibility of, diverse voices.
With varied formats (in-person or virtual; conversation leader or members engaging with each other; learning from experts or exploring viewpoints) there are multiple ways to participate.
Explore our upcoming program of events and forums.
- This event has passed.
Local Government: The Future will be Different
Hosted by:
August 28, 2018 - August 29, 2018
Members' Lunch with Rob Spence, former CEO of the Municipal Association of Victoria
Local government has a pervasive influence in our lives, but many of us – and state and federal governments – often treat Councils and Councillors with disdain. We shouldn’t. Local government has changed dramatically over the past 20 years, and is unrecognisable today. Changes which are now underway could mean that, in five years, it may be unrecognisable again.
No one has had more influence than Rob Spence on the changes to local government in Victoria. For 20 years he has led the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), forging new relationships across councils, founding innovative businesses, and sharpening the insurance scheme on which the sector depends. The MAV is the voice of local government and for two decades Rob Spence has been the script writer for the sector.
Rob is a self-declared grumpy old man and is particularly passionate about the recent changes to the recycling issues between Australia and China. He has a unique perspective on one of the most interesting careers in Victoria in one of the least understood sectors in Victoria.
Melbourne Forum – Feeding minds and stimulating valuable contributions to Melbourne life.