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
April 2022
Navigating The New Hybrid Working Model(s)
Melbourne is emerging from two years of disruption, lockdowns and working from home to a new world of work. The coming months will be a critical time as new norms of behavior are established. The massive and rapid technological adoption of the past two years…
Find out more »The Russian Invasion – a Ukrainian Perspective SOLD OUT
Note: Bookings for this event have now sold out. We’ve been hearing a lot about the Russian invasion of Ukraine over the past weeks from a range of news sources, but to add a more personal perspective we have invited Stefan Romaniw, who is a…
Find out more »Circular Economy – is it too difficult to make a real difference?
A 'circular economy' is a major commercial opportunity (up to $4.5 trillion: World Business Council for Sustainable Development) that could create industries and new jobs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the efficient use of energy, water and materials. According to the United Nations Environment…
Find out more »May 2022
Pre Election Debate
This pre-election debate is a Melbourne Forum tradition... Cr Nicholas Reece politician, policy activist and Deputy Lord Mayor of the City of Melbourne is joined this year by Gideon Rozner, Director of Policy at the Institute of Public Affairs to lead a stimulating discussion about…
Find out more »Healthcare in crisis – is it time for a holistic approach to health provision?
Healthcare in crisis – is it time for a holistic approach to health provision? Across the OECD, healthcare expenditure has been growing at two percentage points faster than GDP reaching close to 20% of GDP in the US and circa 12% in Australia. Yet Covid…
Find out more »Science Denial: Why It Happens and What To Do About It
This book group discussion will help us explore both the importance of science education and its limitations, how science communicators may inadvertently contribute to the problem, and examine how the internet and social media foster misinformation and disinformation. How do individuals decide whether to accept…
Find out more »Threats to our Civil Society. Can we regain civility and respect?
The Most Reverend Dr Philip Freier will be our guest conversation leader asking "Can we regain civility and respect in our society"? The lengthy lockdowns have lead to increasing anxiety in the community and sharply diverging views as to the government’s handling of the crisis.…
Find out more »Friday Imbibo series-federal election!
In the run up to the federal election, it's on again! Many members joined in the very entertaining online drinks sessions at 5pm on Fridays last year. Bring your beverages and nibbles for an online discussion. All opinions, gripes etc welcome! Our Friday election imbibo…
Find out more »Decarbonising The Built Environment – what actions can the industry take now?
There is mounting pressure on CEOs and boards to adopt and develop more sustainable business practices and the built environment - both new builds and existing portfolios - is no exception. The conversation will be guided by two Melbourne Forum members Peter Lamell, Non Executive…
Find out more »Transboundary animal diseases: next pandemic?
It seems that we are seeing more animal diseases in our media than ever before. From Japanese encephalitis detected across Australian piggeries and Avian flu detected in millions of Australian chickens to ‘Lumpy’ skin disease which infects cattle ‘on our nation’s doorstop’. Why is this…
Find out more »The Role of Universities in a Post-COVID world
The last two years have presented numerous challenges for Victoria’s universities, with COVID-19 affecting almost every area of their activity. The impact on revenue from international student enrolments has been well publicised, while universities have also had to grapple with how best to continue teaching,…
Find out more »Friday Imbibo series-federal election!
Election Day has been - do we have a result? Many members joined in the very entertaining online drinks sessions at 5pm on Fridays last year. Bring your beverages and nibbles for an online discussion. All opinions, gripes etc welcome! Our Friday election imbibo series…
Find out more »