The Planet Talks

The Southern Ocean is calling, and its voice carries stories of change, resilience, and reckoning. In this evocative session, we explore the cultural memory, ecological shifts, and climate urgency shaping one of Earth’s most powerful oceans. From historical narratives to devastating modern algal blooms, and from polar expeditions to the futures of our coasts, this conversation invites us to reckon with and act to protect our deep blue seas. 

Proudly supported by the Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Centre.

At a time when global crises demand collective action, public trust in traditional media and public institutions is eroding. In this timely panel, journalist Marian Wilkinson, author Don Watson and political scientist Christian Downie explore how disinformation, corporate influence, and identity politics are deepening polarisation. What does it take to rebuild trust, reclaim facts, and foster unity in an age of division? Join three of the sharpest minds working at the intersection of media, politics and language for a conversation about truth, power, and the fight for a livable future.

In a world tilting toward ecological collapse and digital saturation, how do we hold fast to hope, justice, and our connection to the living world? Brave New Futures brings together Grace Vegesana, Richard King, and Claire Marshall for a dynamic conversation led by Lee Constable on envisioning positive futures and imagining them into being. From radical storytelling to ecological activism and speculative design, this session explores how we reconnect with the natural world while navigating the digital one and build a better tomorrow.

Pacific communities have long led the global climate fight with courage, wisdom and moral clarity through advocacy, innovation and deep cultural knowledge. Although Australia’s hopes in hosting COP31 have been dashed, what opportunities remain to stand alongside the Pacific in genuine partnership? In what is bound to be a powerful and energetic conversation Fenton Lutunatabua, Moemoana Schwenke and ’Alopi Latukefu, guided by facilitator Tukini Tavui, share the myriad ways Pacific peoples have shaped and continue to shape the global response to climate change and what Australia must do to move beyond words to meaningful action.

How can Australia navigate its way to a low-carbon future in a way that builds a more inclusive economy and just society? The challenge is ensuring fairness so that workers, communities and everyday lives are supported through change, not sacrificed to it. Sharan Burrow, Karrina Nolan and Rebecca Huntley join Tory Shepherd to explore what a just transition really means and how we can seize the chance to make it fair for all.