WA Forum

9.36am

An overview of the Western Australian economic climate, highlighting key challenges and significant opportunities presented by the current environment. It explores the opportunities that arise amidst uncertainty and the complexities of a VUCA environment. Strategies for navigating this uncertainty and volatility will be discussed, providing insights to inform strategic decision making and drive business success in the year ahead.

Speaker: Diane Smith-Gander AO FAICD, Chair, Zip Co

10.30am

11.10am

Focusing on enhancing organisational productivity by maximising the potential of employees in today’s dynamic landscape. Directors will gain insights into managing the increasingly complex legal landscape while managing increased expectations of “work”, “culture” and “non-work time” from employees and fostering a psychologically safe environment that promotes open communication.

Explore the board’s role in setting and monitoring culture and hear stories from those who have been involved in difficult industrial relations issues while addressing key topics such as the right to disconnect.. With an emphasis on modern leadership principles, this session will equip directors with the tools necessary to navigate a rapidly changing world marked by significant uncertainty.

Speakers:

• Cheryl Chan FAICD, Director, Remotely Legal
• Kylie Johnston MAICD, Group Executive People, RAC
• Linda O’Farrell MAICD, Founder, Go Higher

11.15am

Delve into the significant impact of the AUKUS partnership on the WA economy, exploring the scale of investment and key opportunities it presents across various sectors. Examine the future of critical minerals, with a focus on emerging trends and their potential implications over the next three years. Assess the growth of the agriculture sector, identifying both the challenges it faces and the opportunities that lie ahead. This session will equip directors with the insights needed to navigate and capitalise on these pivotal developments in WA.

Speakers:

• Linda Dawson, Deputy Director General Industry Science and Innovation, Western Australian Government
• Ben McNamara, CEO, CBH
  
• Rebecca Tomkinson, CEO, CME

Moderator:

• Kristy Porter, Partner, Sustainability, BDO

12.15pm

1.47pm

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, ethical leadership is fundamental. Exploring ethics, leadership, and the evolving challenges facing boards today, in a world increasingly shaped by technology and artificial intelligence. It examines how a strong ethical foundation fosters confidence amidst change, empowering boards to navigate uncertainty and build resilient, purpose-driven organisations. Gain insights into cultivating an ethical culture that drives sustainable success and reinforces trust in an era of constant transformation, addressing the complex relationship between leadership, AI, and ethics.

Speaker: Professor Mayowa Babalola, Stan Perron Chair in Business Ethics, University of Western Australia

Moderator: Fiona Payne FAICD, WA Divisional Council, AICD

2.45pm

3.30pm