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.
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May 2023
The decline in the integrity standards of both state and federal executive governments
The Hon Robert Redlich AM KC has just completed a five year term as the Commissioner of the Independent Broad Based Anti-Corruption Commission (IBAC). We note that his predecessor Stephen O’Bryan also spoke at a MF Dinner. Before his appointment to IBAC, an appointment made…
Find out more »London Symphony Orchestra: Looking To The Future
A story of vision, trust and leadership. The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, cultural partner and presenter of the London Symphony Orchestra in Melbourne is delighted to partner with Melbourne Forum for a lunch with Guest Speaker Kathryn McDowell CBE, DL Managing Director of London Symphony Orchestra. “How one…
Find out more »Leading With Lived Experience: Disability Inclusion and Decision Making
With a passion for creating opportunities for Deaf and hard of hearing people, Melissa Hale wants people with disabilities to lead in spaces where decisions are made that affect them. The strategic issue Melissa is raising at this Fellowship Roundtable is Leading With Lived Experience: Disability…
Find out more »Kathleen Lively, U.S. Consul General
Kathleen Lively is a career American diplomat currently serving as U.S. Consul General in Melbourne, Australia. Ms. Lively was the Minister Counselor for Management Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya from 2019 - 2021. Prior to that, she served three years as the Dean…
Find out more »Boards and ‘The Voice’
Australians will soon have their say in a referendum on whether to update the Constitution to include an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament. The referendum is part of the Government's commitment to implementing the Uluru Statement from the Heart in full. As the focus grows,…
Find out more »If Sexual Assault is power and control, how does that affect consent?
Over (at least) the last 40 years, it has been understood that Sexual Assault is predominantly about power and control… Now societal focus has turned to consent. Can consent be given if power and control are present. Please join us for a member’s only Dangerous…
Find out more »Rachel Perkins: An Exceptional Filmmaker and Storyteller
A woman of the Arrernte and Kalkadoon nations, Rachel Perkins is at the forefront of the fight for Indigenous constitutional recognition as co-chair of Australians for Indigenous Constitutional Recognition. She also has a stellar reputation in the Australian filmmaking industry. Her continuing body of work…
Find out more »Why Digital Trust and Data Resilience Really Matter
The acceleration of digitisation, the broad-based use of data and increasing application of AI are driving a change in consumer outcomes but also expectations and risk. While the risk of data breaches, often coinciding with a cyber-attack, are on the rise, the value of “Digital Trust” is also on the rise. Research…
Find out more »June 2023
Re-thinking Energy for the 21st Century
The energy sector is going through significant change and global energy markets are under pressure. Is Australia well positioned for a Superpower Transformation as postulated by Ross Garnaut? Are the Greens correct in saying that there should be no new coal mines and gas production?…
Find out more »Victorian Pride Centre – A Special Visit
The Victorian Pride Centre is Australia’s first purpose-built centre for LGBTQI+ communities. In its own words, the Centre is a place to pave new directions for LGBTIQ+ communities, while honouring and celebrating their brave – and at times difficult – pasts. It serves as a…
Find out more »Racing to the Electric Age
The shift to a zero-emissions energy system is the most difficult, planned change to our economy since the start of agriculture. It is completely unnatural, driven by the externality of climate change rather than immediate convenience. All the ducks need to be lined up in…
Find out more »Clear blue skies: Aviation and Sustainability
Perhaps nothing captures the challenge of sustainability quite like Air Travel. Globally the industry is back to 85% of its pre covid capacity and back on track as one of the fastest growing polluters. This is happening at a time when the IPCC has told…
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