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
April 2024
Dangerous Dinner: How Old Is Too Old to Hold Public Office?
Do we trust our Public Officers, in government and business, to be competent at 60, 70, 80 or even 90? The imminent election in the USA is likely to be between a 78 year old and an 81 year old? Does their age matter, or…
Find out more »May 2024
Contemporary Non-Profits: Challenges and Opportunities
If you are on a Board, an Executive, or interested in leadership in the NFP sector this ZOOM event will provide an opportunity to discuss issues with a panel of four members with extensive and diverse experience in Governance and Leadership in NFPs. NFPs positively…
Find out more »Observations of a Journalist
One of Australia’s best-known journalists and authors, Michael Gawenda AM, has a career that spans four decades with roles that included a political reporter, a foreign correspondent based in London and in Washington, a columnist, a feature writer, and a senior editor at Time Magazine.…
Find out more »Corporate Governance: Australian and Overseas trends and issues
What are the pressing governance issues and future trends facing Australian and International boards? We are privileged to have two Melbourne Forum members lead a conversation on corporate governance. Dr Nora Scheinkestel is an experienced company director having served as a non-executive chairman and director…
Find out more »Indonesia’s Unlikely New President: Implications for Australia and the West
About 205 million people are eligible to vote in Indonesia, making it one of the world’s biggest election days. During 2024 there will be a range of significant elections around the world. These elections will involve more than 40% of the world's population. What are…
Find out more »Dangerous Dinner
In a relaxed, intimate dinner party format, we draw on the diverse expertise of our members sharing their ideas and experiences on complex or controversial topics; to learn from others, challenge assumptions, spark new ideas or point the way for potential actions. Dangerous because the…
Find out more »The Nixon Review: addressing migrant worker exploitation
The Nixon Review was established by the Department of Home Affairs to addresses migrant worker exploitation, and aimed to more effectively prevent, deter and sanction abuse of Australia's visa framework. In this highly informative Melbourne Forum lunch, Christine Nixon AO, APM will help us understand…
Find out more »June 2024
Adriatic: A Geopolitical and Cultural Exploration
Robert D. Kaplan, a geopolitical expert turns his perceptive eye to a region that for centuries has been a meeting point of cultures, trade, and ideas. He undertakes a journey around the Adriatic Sea, through Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, and Greece, to reveal that…
Find out more »Ovarian Cancer: Searching For A Cure
Every year over 300,000 people hear the words “you have ovarian cancer”. It is the least survivable gynaecological cancer, but it often misses out on the big campaigns, donations, and research grants. As with any type of cancer, earlier diagnosis and treatment can make a…
Find out more »July 2024
Wifedom
Anna Funder slips into the pages of her hero George Orwell. As she watches him create his writing self, she tries to remember her own... when she uncovers his forgotten wife, it's a revelation. Eileen O'Shaughnessy's literary brilliance shaped Orwell's work and her practical nous…
Find out more »August 2024
The Bracks Timor-Leste Governance Project
The Honourable Steve Bracks AC has made over fifty visits to Timor-Leste. His interest in Timor-Leste began during his tenure as Premier of Victoria when he visited the new nation in 2002 and 2003. The Bracks Timor-Leste Governance Project was later formed and has helped…
Find out more »Current Issues Driving Sustainability Practice
We are delighted that member Jill Riseley AM will lead a conversation for members and guests on current issues driving sustainability practice. Jill is a Partner, Consulting - Climate and Sustainability, Public Sector at Deloitte. Considered one of Australia’s pioneering and preeminent climate, sustainability, circular…
Find out more »