Big Ideas

In a world where rules are increasingly being broken, what role should business play in upholding human rights, international and domestic law, and environmental protection? And what are the rules and responsibilities of business to ensure supply chains, hiring practices, workplace safety, environment and social governance practices abide by global human rights standards?This event was recorded at the inaugural UN Business and Human Rights Regional Forum: Australia and New Zealand on 26 August 2025.SpeakersRobert McCorquodale Professor of International Law and Human Rights, UN working group on business and human rightsHelen Clark Head of the UN Development Programme, Co-Chair of the WHO Independent Panel for Pandemic Preparedness and Response, former Prime Minister of New ZealandSharan Burrow Former general secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation, former president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, fellow with the London School of EconomicsLinda Kromjong President, amforiPeggy O'Neal Vice Chancellor RMIT University, former president Richmond Football Club

Rock star and maverick Jimmy Barnes celebrates heritage, family, friends, music and the adventure of a grand life on stage. Get up close to the lead singer of Cold Chisel, author of Working Class Man and Working Class Boy. Learn how terrible experiences of family violence, but also a close bond to his brother shaped him into the performer he is now. Get a look behind the scenes of his music world, with wild characters and the occasional tall tale.This conversation was recorded live at the 2025 Melbourne Writers Festival.Listen to Big Ideas – Writers who rockSpeakersJimmy BarnesAustralian rock singer, solo performer and lead vocalist with Cold ChiselAuthor of Highways and Byways, Working Class Boy, Working Class ManBrian Nankervis (host)Co-host of the music quiz show RocKwiz, Saturday Breakfast on ABC Radio MelbourneWriter, actor and comedian

Hanna Rosin, Senior Editor at The Atlantic and author of The End of Men, joins Edwina Bartholomew, host of Sunrise. They dive into the shifting gender dynamics in America post-Trump, highlighting women's struggle for equality and financial independence. Hanna shares candid reflections on her media experiences during tumultuous times. The duo discusses societal expectations in marriage and parenting, the role of technology in intimacy, and the necessity for women to reclaim their narratives amid evolving political discourse.

In this insightful discussion, energy analyst Simon Holmes à Court, conservationist Geoff Cousins, and journalist Royce Kurmelovs dive into the nuclear energy debate in Australia. They explore the nation's long-standing ban and the political intricacies surrounding nuclear as a climate solution. The trio critiques the Coalition's failed nuclear strategy in the last election and examines the need for bipartisan support. They also reflect on global energy trends, contrasting Australia’s challenges with other nations’ approaches to nuclear and renewables.

In this insightful discussion, David Lindenmayer, a Professor of Ecology and Conservation Biology, and John Wamsley, founder of Australia's first wildlife sanctuary, explore the dire state of Australia's biodiversity. They tackle the alarming species extinction trends and the need for innovative conservation strategies. The duo shares inspiring community stories and highlights the impact of sustainable funding and technology in forest management. Their personal journeys reflect a commitment to positive change, urging listeners to take meaningful action for the environment.

In this insightful discussion, Jenny Donovan, CEO of the Australian Education Research Organisation and a champion for evidence-based education, tackles the critical literacy crisis facing Australian schoolchildren. She emphasizes the shift towards explicit instruction methods and their potential to improve reading proficiency. Topics include the necessity of proper teacher training, educational inequality across socioeconomic regions, and the push for cohesive policies that support effective teaching. Donovan advocates for bridging the gap between research and classroom practice.

Graeme Turner, an Emeritus Professor of Cultural Studies at the University of Queensland and author of 30 books, joins lecturer Ben Eltham to tackle the crisis in Australian higher education. They discuss the alarming dropout rates and burnout among faculty, revealing systemic issues like funding declines and the commercialization of universities. The conversation delves into the need for universities to prioritize their role in democracy over workforce preparation, while advocating for equity and better support for underrepresented groups.

In this engaging discussion, Jess Hill, an investigative journalist known for her work on gendered violence, George Megalogenis, a political and social commentator, and Thomas Mayo, an Indigenous rights activist, delve into the radicalization of boys through online misogynist subcultures like the 'manosphere'. They highlight parental anxieties and the confusion boys face today. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy, community involvement, and redefining masculinity to combat gender violence and foster healthier relationships among youth.

In this engaging discussion, linguistics professor Emily M Bender, digital ethics lawyer Kobi Leins, and journalist Tracey Spicer dive into the AI hype machine and its societal implications. They dissect the exaggerated narratives around AI, challenging misconceptions while emphasizing the environmental costs of automation. With humor and critical insights, the panel explores the ethical dilemmas of AI, the need for education in technology, and the importance of passion in studying these fields. They advocate for a future where responsible AI integration is prioritized.

Barry Jones, a former science minister and thoughtful author, joins renowned journalist Kerry O'Brien for an illuminating discussion. They explore the intricate ties between science, politics, and climate challenges while reflecting on the power of art, particularly Mozart's influence. They draw historical parallels to today's political rhetoric and authoritarianism, delving into American democracy's struggles. Personal stories share insights into love, compassion, and the role of history in shaping our current societal dynamics.