On the afternoon of 9 May 1901, Australia’s first Parliament was opened in Melbourne before 12,000 invited guests — a defining moment in the birth of a democratic nation.
On the 125th anniversary of that historic occasion, it is time to take stock, assess Australia's current predicament, place it in the deeply troubling global context, and reimagine and plan for a promising future.
Across the Western world, democratic institutions face deep strain. Public trust is fragile. Civic life is unsettled. On 9 May 2026, Reclaiming Democracy Together is launched – a seven-year national initiative dedicated to rethinking and revitalising democratic life in Australia and beyond. This launch marks the beginning of that long-term work.
The program includes Confirmed Distinguished Speakers and Musical Performances.
- Where: Melbourne Town Hall, 90–130 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 300
- Cost: General Admission Online/In-Person $18/$36; Concession Online/In-Person $12/$22
- Bookings: essential, online via Trybooking
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Conversation at the Crossroads (CatC)
Conversation at the Crossroads acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.