ABC boss to deliver Menzies Oration in Ballarat

ABC boss Kim Williams will deliver the 2024 Menzies Oration at Federation University’s SMB Campus on 30 October.

His topic will be The Intersection of Leadership and Truth, a discussion of the importance of clarity, transparency, accountability and trust in leadership.

A FedUni spokesperson said the topic is critical in an era where truth is often obscured by misinformation, propaganda and sensationalism.

“This year’s Menzies Oration will delve into the vital connection between leadership and truth, examining how these elements shape the fabric of Australian leadership and public perception,” the spokesperson said.

“Kim will share his extensive insights and experiences, highlighting the essential qualities that underpin effective and ethical leadership in the 21st century.”

Mr Williams has had a long involvement in the arts, entertainment and media industries both in Australia and overseas.

He has held various executive leadership positions since the late 1970s including as chief executive at News Corp Australia, FOXTEL, Fox Studios Australia, the Australian Film Commission, Southern Star Entertainment and Music Viva Australia, and also as a senior executive at the ABC.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointed him as the 20th chair of the ABC in January this year.

The Menzies Oration will be held from 6pm to 7.15pm at the IBM Emerging Technologies Hub, Building T, at the Lydiard Street South campus.

People can participate either in person or online but registrations must be submitted by 23 October via Eventbrite.

The annual Menzies Oration is part of a lecture program organised and run by the Menzies Foundation, a philanthropic trust established in 1979 with funding from a public appeal and supplemented by government investment, to commemorate the life and achievements of Sir Robert Menzies, who was Australia’s longest serving prime minister.

It is a non-political, not-for-profit organisation that relies on donations and bequests to supplement its investment income.

Last year’s speaker was Deborah Di Natale, CEO of the Council to Homeless Persons.