We are a community of curious, connected and interested Melburnians contributing to and engaging on the important issues of today and tomorrow.
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 new experiences) there are multiple ways to participate.
Explore our upcoming program of events and forums.
Events Search and Views Navigation
November 2024
Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays The Rent
Britain's greatest Shakespearean actor reveals her secrets in a series of intimate conversations. Taking a curtain call with a live snake in her wig; cavorting naked through the countryside painted green; acting opposite a child with a pumpkin on his head... these are just a…
Find out more »Redefining Public Sector Leadership
Governments and public services across Australia are being challenged in unprecedented ways. Wicked problems abound, from climate change to artificial intelligence, from Closing the Gap to tectonic shifts in the geopolitical plates. What will be required to ensure public services are fit for purpose, and ready…
Find out more »A Visit to the Australian Tapestry Workshop
The Australian Tapestry Workshop in South Melbourne is a hidden gem where art, history, and craftsmanship intertwine. A visit to this vibrant space offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of large-scale, hand-woven tapestries that adorn public buildings and galleries worldwide. You’ll witness skilled artisans…
Find out more »MF Directors Alumni Dinner 2024
Melbourne Forum Directors past and present, We are delighted to confirm our annual directors Alumni Dinner will be held on Tuesday 19 November 2024 at Tazio at 6:00pm. Rather than pay separately at Tazio, one payment will be made on the night. Current members have…
Find out more »A Way Forward Through Indigenous Art
Explore how the success of Indigenous art may indicate a way forward in improving black-white relations. Discover how copyright law is empowering Indigenous creatives. These are the two themes of this insightful, stimulating and highly interesting discussion by Melbourne Forum member and leading intellectual property…
Find out more »On The US Election
A report of America that catches the madness and the politics of an election like no other. Trump, Harris and America on the Brink In his Quarterly Essay (September 2024) Don Watson offers a report from the United States that catches the madness and theatre…
Find out more »2024 Closing Event Celebration
It's the end of yet another wonderful year at Melbourne Forum! And what a year it's been, celebrating our 15th Anniversary. We warmly invite members, potential members and guests to mark this milestone with us. The night will feature a special guest appearance by distinguished…
Find out more »February 2025
Humankind: A Hopeful History
This inspiring book makes a new argument: that it is realistic, as well as revolutionary, to assume that people are good. The instinct to cooperate rather than compete, trust rather than distrust, has an evolutionary basis going right back to the beginning of Homo sapiens.…
Find out more »The Promise of Fusion Energy
Nuclear fusion or nuclear fission? Do you know the difference? Is nuclear fusion the holy grail of clean energy? This is what Melbourne Forum does best: insightful discussions on the important issues of today and tomorrow. Join us at this exclusive event to discover all…
Find out more »Connections
This special event offers a unique opportunity to further strengthen our connections, fostering a robust network of like-minded individuals committed to knowledge-sharing and civic betterment. There's no set agenda or a conversation leader as the aim is to create a space where ideas flow freely,…
Find out more »*Rescheduled: Australia’s National Science Agency
The CSIRO works with industry, government and the research community to turn science into solutions to address Australia's greatest challenges, including food security and quality; sustainable energy and resources; health and wellbeing; resilient and valuable environments; future industries; and a secure Australia and region. Dr…
Find out more »March 2025
An Evening With The ABC Chair
With a long involvement in the arts, entertainment and media industries, here and overseas, Kim Williams AM has held various executive leadership positions since the late 1970s including as Chief Executive at each of News Corp Australia, FOXTEL, Fox Studios Australia, the Australian Film Commission,…
Find out more »