CONFERENCE SPEAKERS

Professor Justin Wolfers

Australian-born global economics superstar Justin Wolfers, Professor of Economics and Professor of Public Policy at the University of Michigan - one of the brightest young talents shaping thinking about the global economy. Entertaining, unorthodox and unconventional, Professor Wolfers will share insights on the global economic outlook, the prospects of a downturn, and implications for Australia’s economy, jobs and universities. 

The Hon Michael Kirby AC CMG

International jurist, educator and former High Court Justice Michael Kirby on the fundamental role that universities play in democratic societies. As institutions for the public good, they advance knowledge, foster rigorous evidence-based debate, and impart skills to each new generation in critical thinking, cogent discussion and respectful disagreement.

Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng

Professor Mamokgethi Phakeng, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Town is one of Africa’s leading university talents. She’ll reflect on hope and transformation – qualities central to her leadership philosophy and her belief in the transformative power of education to change lives. one of Africa’s leading university talents. She’ll reflect on hope and transformation – qualities central to her leadership philosophy and her belief in the transformative power to education to change lives.

Professor Julia Buckingham CBE

Brexit and the broader British landscape loom as the backdrop for a keynote from Professor Julia Buckingham, President of Universities UK. She’ll share insights on global research and higher education policy in the UK, Europe and Australia.

Mr Craig Reucassel

Craig Reucassel is an Australian writer, comedian and documentary maker who is best known for his work with The Chaser and for going through your bins on The War on Waste.

Craig and a group of friends founded The Chaser newspaper, which led to a number of ABC TV Chaser programs including The Election Chaser, CNNNN, The Chaser's War on Everything, Yes We Canberra and The Hamster Wheel. Most recently he's appeared on ABC in The Checkout, two series of War on Waste and hosted The Drum. In 2020 Craig will present The Fight for Planet A, a documentary about climate change.