Event program

AICD Chair, Naomi Edwards, welcome attendees to this year’s Australian Governance Summit and outlines the key themes and topics.

Speaker

• Naomi Edwards FAICD, Chair, AICD

Qantas Chair John Mullen joins the 2025 Australian Governance Summit for a special presentation. 

Speaker

• John Mullen AM, Chair, Qantas

Geopolitical instability has been on the rise and looks likely to persist in 2025. Donald Trump’s re-election has brought fresh uncertainty to the international order, the conflict in Ukraine continues, and China’s relations with the West remain fragile. The factors could all have dramatic impacts on Australia and our economy. Which international risk factors should boards be tracking? How can boards plan for this challenging international environment? What safeguards should directors put in place?

Speaker

• Michèle Flournoy, Former US Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Co-Founder & Managing Partner, WestExec Advisors 
  

Moderator

• Mark Thirlwell GAICD, Chief Economist, AICD

Ambidextrous Learning: Regulation & Innovation

Sectors like the space economy, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy are transforming labour market and creating new workforce demands that require specialised skills and adaptability. To keep pace, universities must embrace flexible, industry-focused learning models. Online platforms, micro-credentials, and competency-based education are reshaping traditional learning, helping to bridge skill gaps. Lifelong learning and upskilling are essential for workforce resilience, ensuring individuals remain competitive in rapidly evolving industries.

Speakers

• Professor Bronwen Dalton, Head, Department of Management, University of Technology Sydney
• Professor Lan Snell MAICD, Dean of Programs (Postgraduate), University of South Australia Business

Moderator

• Helen Dalley GAICD, AGS Studio 2025 MC

The partnership between the Chair and the CEO is critical for steering an organisation towards success. In this special case study, Australian Unity Chair Lisa Chung and CEO Rohan Mead take us inside their relationship. How should the roles and responsibilities of the Chair and CEO be clearly defined? What are effective strategies for maintaining open and productive communication? How can the Chair and CEO handle disagreements or conflicts constructively?

Speakers

• Lisa Chung FAICD, Chair, Australian Unity 
• Rohan Mead AAICD, CEO, Australian Unity
  

Online threats have emerged as one of the key risks for boards and their organisations. This session will take attendees into the centre of a simulated cyber-attack, offering insights on how boards can navigate the complexities of decision-making during an incident. What should boards do when they’re first notified of an attack? How can directors best collaborate with management, experts and stakeholders? What does effective communication with regulators, the media and customers look like? 

Speakers

• Michael Burchell, Chair, Australian Information Security Association
  
• Susan Forrester AM FAICD, Chair, Jumbo
• Anna Leibel GAICD, Director, AMP  

Moderator

• Craig Ford, Co-Founder & Executive Director, Cyber Unicorns Deputy Chair, Australian Information Security Association 

1) Opportunities in the Circular Economy: A Primer for Directors

The circular economy presents a strategic opportunity for Australian organisations to drive sustainability, enhance resource efficiency, and gain a competitive edge. This session will explore insights from the new resource, Opportunities in the Circular Economy: A Primer for Australian Directors, outlining key principles, business models, and governance considerations for boards. Directors will gain a deeper understanding of how circular economy strategies align with net zero commitments, regulatory requirements, and long-term business resilience.

Speakers

• Christie Rourke, Senior Policy Adviser, AICD
• The Hon Professor John Thwaites AM FAICD, Chair, Circular Economy Taskforce

Moderator

• Helen Dalley, AGS Studio 2025 MC

2) Directors’ Oversight of Company Compliance Obligations

In today’s complex regulatory landscape, directors are facing novel governance challenges as they navigate an increasing array of financial and non-financial risks. Stakeholder expectations are rising, and ASIC is heightening its focus on directors’ duties in relation to companies’ regulatory compliance. A landmark legal opinion by Michael Hodge KC and Sonia Tame, commissioned by the AICD, provides clarity for directors on the standard of care required in meeting their duty of care.

Speakers

• Laura Bacon GAICD, Senior Policy Adviser, AICD
• Michael Hodge KC

Moderator

• Helen Dalley, AGS Studio 2025 MC

This session will provide a practical deep dive into the Port of Newcastle’s transformation—a case study in how a legacy industrial asset successfully pivoted from coal dependency to a diversified, future-ready operation. Through this real-world example, we’ll explore the key questions directors should be asking management about climate risk, compliance, and growth opportunities. How should boards assess both risks and opportunities in energy transition while maintaining financial performance? Which governance frameworks best drive effective target-setting, reporting, and stakeholder engagement?

Speakers

• Roy Green AM MAICD, Former Chair, Port of Newcastle
• Ruth Madden, ESG Manager, Port of Newcastle
  

University of NSW Emerita Professor, Pamela Hanrahan, will deliver her annual address to the Australian Governance Summit. She will cover the latest major changes to the legislative and regulatory landscapes. What do these developments mean for boards and how should directors respond?

Speaker

• Dr Pamela Hanrahan MAICD, Emerita Professor, University of NSW, Consultant, Johnson Winter Slattery 

While many NFP boards operate on a voluntary basis, there is a growing conversation about compensating directors. Some believe remuneration could broaden the pool of potential NFP board members, improve accountability, and drive better governance outcomes. How can NFPs balance the financial constraints of the organisation with the potential benefits of remunerating directors? What are the legal and regulatory considerations for paying NFP directors, particularly in different jurisdictions? Which governance structures should be in place to ensure director remuneration is fair and aligned with the organisation's goals?

Speakers

• Jessica Bulger MAICD, CEO, Australian Indigenous Governance Institute, Co-Chair, Outward Bound Australia  
• Graeme Innes AM GAICD, Chancellor, Central Queensland University, Board Member, NDIA  
• Liesel Wett OAM FAICD, CEO, Australian Pathology, Former Chair, Goodwin Aged Care

Moderator 

• Phil Butler GAICD, Not For Profit Sector Lead, AICD

New Obligations for Directors

Company directors are facing a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape with significant new compliance obligations. This panel will examine key legislative changes impacting boards, including the Financial Accountability Regime Act, the Consolidated Entity Disclosure Statement, new mandatory climate reporting requirements, and amendments to anti-money laundering legislation. Expert speakers will unpack what these reforms mean for directors, the risks of non-compliance, and the steps boards must take to ensure they meet their duties effectively.

Speakers

• Tim Bednall GAICD, Partner, King & Wood Mallesons 
• Paul McClintock AO FAICD, Chair, St Vincent’s Health Australia

Moderator

• Helen Dalley, AGS Studio 2025 MC

John M. Green takes you inside his boardroom and career experience.

Speaker

• John M. Green FAICD, Chair, PwC Australia Governance Board  

Moderator

• Mark Rigotti MAICD, Managing Director & CEO, AICD 

The 2025 Australian Governance Summit MC welcomes delegates to Day Two of the event.

Speaker

• Australian Governance Summit 2025 MC 

Artificial Intelligence has emerged as a key consideration for boards. Directors must ensure their organisations are well placed to take advantage of the opportunities presented by this new technology. At the same time, it is crucial for boards to provide sufficient safeguards around AI to ensure it is used ethically and safely. How should boards balance the benefits of AI innovation with the need for responsible oversight and ethical considerations? What are the most pressing risks from the adoption of AI? And how can boards effectively navigate them?

Speakers

• Ng Kuo Pin, CEO, NCS
• Stela Solar MAICD, Managing Director, Data & AI, Accenture, Former Director, National AI Centre  
• Tim Trumper GAICD, Chair, NRMA, Author, “AI: Game On – How to decide who or what decides”

Moderator

• Naomi Edwards FAICD, Chair, AICD

The AICD’s Managing Director and CEO, Mark Rigotti, outlines the organisation’s key priorities for the year ahead. 

Speaker

• Mark Rigotti MAICD, Managing Director & CEO, AICD 

Australian Securities and Investments Commission Chair Joe Longo addresses the 2025 Australian Governance Summit and answers questions from the audience.

Speaker

• Joe Longo, Chair, Australian Securities and Investments Commission

Inside the AICD’s Revised NFP Principles

The AICD’s Not-for-Profit Governance Principles are a key source of guidance for directors of Australian not-for-profits, including charities. The Principles have been updated from the previous editions to reflect the evolving governance environment including heightened board focus on organisational culture, stakeholders, and sustainability. What are the key elements in this latest edition of the Principles and how do they apply to your board?

Speakers

• Virginia Bourke FAICD, Chair, Mercy Health
  
• Sean Dondas MAICD, Policy Adviser, AICD

Moderator

• Helen Dalley, AGS Studio 2025 MC

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, shifting regulatory landscapes, and evolving stakeholder demands, boards must continuously assess and enhance their skill sets to remain effective and relevant. What are the critical skills and competencies that a board needs to effectively navigate the complexities of the 21st century? How can boards identify and address skill gaps? What are the best practices for recruiting new members with the necessary expertise?

Speakers

• Sally Loane MAICD, Chair, Destination NSW  
• Brad Welsh GAICD, CEO, Energy Resources of Australia Director, nib  
• Melanie Willis FAICD, Chair, QBE Australia Pacific 

Moderator

• Paul Merrill, Head of Content, AICD

Selecting a CEO is one of a boards’ most important functions. Succession planning should be an ongoing strategic priority, rather than a sudden response to unexpected circumstances.  How can directors ensure they've picked the right candidate for the job? What steps should boards take to monitor the effectiveness of their current CEO? How can boards build a strong pipeline of potential leaders?

Speakers

• René Johnson MAICD, Managing Director, Pacific Search Partners  
• Helen Kurincic FAICD, Chair, McMillan Shakespeare, Director, Ramsay Health Care
• Kate Spargo FAICDLife, Director, Sigma Health, Director, Sonic Healthcare 

Moderator

• Bennett Mason, Content Programming Manager, AICD

Building and maintaining an organisation’s culture is a key role for boards. Recent high-profile governance issues at some of Australia’s largest companies and institutions have shown the damage that can occur, when organisations do not have the correct culture in place. What are the warning signs that culture is deteriorating, and how can directors respond? How should the board set the tone on culture and model behaviour? What impact does a dispersed workforce have on an organisation’s culture?

Speakers

• Jennifer Dalitz GAICD, Chair, Qudos Bank
  
• Tracey Horton AO FAICD, Director, GPT Group
  
• Karl Treacher, CEO, The Culture Institute of Australia  

Moderator

• Laura Bacon GAICD, Senior Policy Adviser, AICD 

Directors have a crucial part in improving their organisation’s productivity by effectively shaping strategy, culture and priorities. This discussion is designed to equip board members with actionable insights on how to play an active role in driving productivity while balancing their governance responsibilities. We’ll look at practical examples of how successful boards have created a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring their organisations are built for long-term growth. 

Speakers

• Alison Kitchen AM MAICD, Director, NAB 
• Marianne Perkovic GAICD, Chair, Australian Fashion Council, Director, Insignia Financial  
• The Honourable Victor Dominello, Founder, ServiceGen, Former NSW Government Minister 

The Dismal Science Podcast – Live

A special live recording of the AICD’s popular economics podcast, The Dismal Science. AICD Chief Economist Mark Thirlwell will tackle some of the globe’s major economic stories and explain what they could mean for boards and their organisations.

Speakers

• Raphael Dixon, Publications Lead, AICD
• Mark Thirlwell GAICD, Chief Economist, AICD

Data has become an integral part of everyday operations for many organisations across a range of sectors. It can provide crucial insights into customers, clients, and staff. However, the increased use of data has given rise to a range of fresh governance issues. What safeguards should boards put in place around the application of data? How can this information be protected? What steps should organisations take if a data breach occurs?

Speakers

• Valeska Bloch, Partner & Head of Cyber, Allens  
• Wendy Stops GAICD, Director, Coles 
• Elena Wise GAICD, General Manager, Specialist Technology Unit, Microsoft Australia 

Moderator

• Simon Mitchell, Senior Policy Advisor, AICD 

Join us for an engaging discussion focused on the critical components that contribute to high-functioning boards. In an era where effective governance is paramount, understanding how to optimise board performance is essential for an organisation’s success. This session aims to equip directors with actionable strategies and best practices to elevate their governance capabilities.

Speakers

• Lyn McGrath GAICD, Chair, Australian Digital Health Agency  
• Steve Pell, CEO, BoardOutlook  
• Jingmin Qian FAICD, Director, Abacus Group

As workplace legislation and regulation continues to evolve, company directors must stay ahead of changes but also understand their role in promoting employee wellbeing. This session will explore the latest regulatory developments impacting workplace relations, providing boards members with insights into how to ensure compliance while fostering a healthy, engaged and productive workforce.

Speakers

• Miles Bastick, Partner, Herbert Smith Freehills  
• Dr Juliet Bourke GAICD, Professor of Practice in the School of Management and Governance, UNSW Business School  
• Melanie Laing FAICD, Director, AUB Group  

Moderator

• Laura Bacon GAICD, Senior Policy Adviser, AICD

Boards have a leading role in safeguarding their organisation’s reputation. Recent high-profile examples have shown some of the risks when a company or NFP loses their stakeholders’ trust. How can boards provide sufficient oversight to ensure their organisation’s reputation is protected? What strategies can the board implement to respond to reputation-damaging events or crises swiftly and effectively? How can an organisation rebuild faith with stakeholders if a reputation is harmed?

Speakers

• John Connolly FAICD, Director, John Connolly & Partners  
• Sunita Gloster AM GAICD, Chair, Diversity Council  
• Louise McElvogue FAICD, Board Member, ABC, CEO, Macleod Media 

Moderator

• Matt Pritchard, Head of Public Affairs, AICD

Australians are headed to the ballot box in 2025 for an important federal election. The nation is grappling with a number of key issues, with implications for the near-term and beyond the horizon. Boards can and should have a leading role in Australia’s major policy discussions. What are the key reforms that directors want action on? How can boards effectively engage with policymakers and government stakeholders? How should directors manage political uncertainties and their potential effects on organisational strategy?

Speakers

• Bran Black, CEO, Business Council of Australia  
• The Honourable Anna Bligh AC, CEO, Australian Banking Association, Former Queensland Premier  
• The Hon Nicholas Greiner AC FAICDLife, Former NSW Premier

Speaker

• Mark Rigotti MAICD, Managing Director & CEO, AICD