Big Ideas

Join acclaimed British author Jeanette Winterson, known for her groundbreaking works like '12 Bytes,' as she explores the fascinating connections between Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' and the rise of artificial intelligence. Delve into the ethical implications of creating life, questioning what it means to be human in an era dominated by AI. They discuss consciousness, the illusion of emotion, and the paradox of technological progress leading to time scarcity. Winterson engages listeners to reflect on creativity, identity, and the future of work in a rapidly changing world.

Join Tony Inder, a sixth-generation Merino wool farmer who now grazes sheep among solar panels, as he discusses the complexities of converting agricultural land for energy use. Andrew Bray, from the Australian Renewable Energy Alliance, highlights the necessity of community dialogue in the face of renewable energy expansion. Janine Young, the Energy and Water Ombudsman, emphasizes the need for transparency and fair benefits distribution. Together, they explore local concerns and opportunities for better engagement in Australia's energy transition.

Zachary Carter, a journalist and author known for his award-winning biography of Keynes, is joined by Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman. They dive into the transformative life of John Maynard Keynes, exploring his radical ideas on economic policy and his critiques of post-WWI agreements. Their discussion highlights Keynes's influential role in shaping modern economics, his innovative thoughts during the Bretton Woods Conference, and the tensions between liberal values and authoritarianism during the 1920s.

Join legendary photojournalists Lorrie Graham, a trailblazer as the first female photographic cadet at the Sydney Morning Herald, and Rick Stevens, known for his impactful work covering Cyclone Tracy. They share captivating stories behind iconic Australian photographs and the evolution of cricket photography. Expect entertaining anecdotes about the unpredictable nature of their craft and reflections on the growing influence of AI on public perception. They also discuss the significance of traditional photography in an age dominated by mobile devices.

In this engaging discussion, Jay Weatherill, former South Australian Premier and Director of Democracy at the McKinnon Foundation, joins Simon Birmingham, former Liberal Senator, and Emma Fletcher, co-CEO of Democracy Co. They explore citizen juries' potential to revitalize Australian democracy amid decision deadlock. The guests share personal anecdotes on fostering public engagement, the significance of diverse voices, and strategies to enhance deliberative processes. Their insights illustrate how citizen juries can tackle complex societal issues and promote effective governance.

Join Jodi Edwards, a Walbanja woman and esteemed artist, educator, and researcher, as she connects with the ocean through her Unbroken Whispers project. Author James Bradley dives into the ocean's influence on human history and the environment. Mark Rowland discusses the Gaia Imperative, offering insights on restoring ecological balance. Together, they explore Aboriginal kinship with marine life, the vital role of women in fishing traditions, and the importance of preserving traditional ecological knowledge amid climate change.

Kurdish-Iranian writer Behrouz Boochani and Australian author Arnold Zable dive into the transformative power of friendship as an act of resistance. They discuss how their bond, forged through shared hardships, highlights storytelling's role in nurturing creativity and resilience. Personal anecdotes reveal the significance of connection in overcoming trauma and displacement. Their reflections on cultural symbols, like the oak tree, showcase how stories unite us, emphasizing the importance of kindness and understanding across borders.

In October 2023, Australians voted no to a Voice to Parliament for First Nations people. In this panel from the 2025 Melbourne Writers Festival, four speakers who saw the campaign up close discuss what went wrong, and even whether the whole endeavour was worth it. Ultimately they’re all trying to answer the question, where do we go from here? Speakers Thomas MayoKaurareg Aboriginal and Kalkalgal, Erubamle Torres Strait  Islander, author, activist and 'yes' campaignerBen AbbatangeloGunaikurnai and Wotjobaluk journalist  Nardi SimpsonYuwaalaraay artist, musician and author  Daniel Browning (host)Bundjalung and Kullilli man, Professor of Indigenous Cultural and Creative Industries at University of Sydney and former ABC arts journalist 

In this thought-provoking discussion, Kate Devlin, a leading professor of AI and author, teams up with Chine McDonald, an acclaimed author and director at Theos. They dive into the vision of a feminist utopia that redefines work, parenting, and technology. The duo explores emotional bonds with AI companions, critiques the tech industry's gender biases, and examines Gen Z's growing interest in religion post-pandemic. They challenge traditional gender roles, advocating for nurturing behaviors while addressing the environmental cost of AI. Envisioning genuine community, they emphasize the importance of real-world human connections.

Dark tourism is increasingly popular. Sites of suffering like old gaols, asylums, orphanages hold a certain allure. Can we honour their dark heart and histories, whilst also re-imagining their future? Should some 'traumascapes' be left untouched so the scars of the past are never forgotten, or can we turn them into happier settings with sensitivity? How do designers, developers, and historians tread such tricky terrain? This event was organised by Open House Melbourne and held in the Old Melbourne Gaol during Melbourne Design Week 2025.SpeakersDr Sue HodgesHeritage interpretations specialistManaging director, international consultancy SHP (Sue Hodges Productions Pty Ltd)Erwin TaalSenior AssociateInternational landscape architect and urban design studio ASPECT Studios