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.
Events Search and Views Navigation
November 2023
Sammy at Six
Wow! It's finally here. The last major event for the year is where we come together for an evening of celebration, the company of fellow members and some great fun as Sammy J drops in for the early part of the evening - at six…
Find out more »February 2024
Energy Innovation And Power Moonshots
Audrey Zibelman is a VP at X, the Moonshot Factory and Industry Advisory Council member of Monash Energy Institute. She has deep experience working with power systems in America, Europe and Australia. She was the chair of the New York State Public Service Commission in…
Find out more »Australia’s Regional Security: Keeping our Balance
Professor the Hon Gareth Evans AC KC FASSA FAIIA is Distinguished Honorary Professor at the Australian National University, where he was Chancellor from 2010-19 and President Emeritus of the International Crisis Group, the Brussels-based independent global conflict prevention and resolution organisation which he led from…
Find out more »Social Cohesion: A tear in the fabric?
Social cohesion in Australia has been remarkably resilient through the challenges of recent years. However, we continue to face difficult national and global circumstances, global conflict, economic pressures and uncertainty and division over issues such as the Voice referendum. As a result – and while…
Find out more »A Special Tour of Parliament House
Facing the intersection of Spring and Bourke streets, the facade of Parliament House, with its sweeping steps, elegant lamps and grand colonnade, suggests solidity and strength. A tour of the inside of Parliament House is a delight for anyone with an interest in architecture (new…
Find out more »Islamic Museum Tour
Melbourne - Every bit different. The Islamic Museum of Australia, highlights the arts, culture and contributions of Muslims in Australia and abroad through the display of art and historical objects. We have arranged a private members and guests tour, at the Islamic Museum, to explore…
Find out more »Dangerous Dinner: Nymbyism and the Housing Crisis
At a time when the housing shortage poses the greatest problem for both State and Federal Governments, it has been realised that we can’t simply expand our major cities into hitherto farming country. At the same time, many residents in established areas express opposition to…
Find out more »Connections
This is an evening of unparalleled camaraderie and exchange as we come together for drinks at an enchanting city location. Cultivating Community As members of the Melbourne Forum, you have been pivotal in shaping our community's civic engagement landscape. This special event offers a unique…
Find out more »March 2024
Indigenous Business Leadership
Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership, is a centre of engagement, research and teaching focused on Indigenous economic empowerment. Dr Michelle Evans is the inaugural Director. She holds a joint appointment of Associate Professorship of Leadership and Associate Dean, Indigenous, at the University of…
Find out more »Is The Energy Future Renewables?
Widely considered one of the Australian renewable energy industry’s strongest advocates, Miles George, will lead a conversation helping us to explore the state of play and the many future opportunities. Miles has more than 30 years’ experience in the energy and infrastructure sectors, with a…
Find out more »Garma Festival 2024
Expressions of Interest are now closed. Melbourne Forum member, Sally Baillieu, remains very happy to talk to members who might be interested in attending the Festival on their own accord, and provide some insights into this extraordinary experience. ______ The 23rd annual Garma Festival will…
Find out more »The Body: A Guide for Occupants
Bill Bryson sets off to explore the human body, how it functions and its remarkable ability to heal itself. Full of extraordinary facts and astonishing stories The Body: A Guide for Occupants is a brilliant, often very funny attempt to understand the miracle of our…
Find out more »