Chancellor's Lecture Series

From industrialisation in the 19th century to the breakthrough of computing in the 20th, we are now seeing the dawn of a new revolution in technology. Emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things, machine learning, and autonomous systems are already offering new ways of doing with profound social, cultural and political implications. Artificial intelligence promises to revolutionise our lives, shape a new future and disrupt the world as we know it. But can we truly imagine all the ways that these emerging technologies will alter the human experience? Professor Genevieve Bell (Director of the 3A Institute, Florence Violet McKenzie Chair, and Distinguished Professor at the Australian National University) explores what the 21st century might bring (it’s not as scary as you think!).

The 2018 Chancellor’s Lecture was presented by Professor Peter Choong on 16 August 2018. Professor Choong (St Vincent’s Hospital and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre) is a world-leading cancer surgeon and pioneer in limb-sparing surgery. Entitled 'A surgeon’s journey: Innovating cancer care through science, dreams and hope', Professor Choong offered a compassionate perspective into what it means to operate at the forefront of medical innovation that is changing lives. From bedside to breakthrough; how has technology enhanced cancer care? And what does the future look like for those affected by bone and soft tissue cancers?

In the 2017 Chancellor's Lecture, the Hon. Jeffrey Bleich discussed five great technology driven challenges confronting Western democracies - automation, education, cyber, climate and self-governance. Presented 2 August 2017.

In February 2015, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that the prohibition against physician-assisted dying violated the constitutional right to "life, liberty, and security of the person". The government then established a panel to examine options for a legislative response to the ruling. The panel's final report, helped shape Canada’s legislation, legalising Medical Assistance in Dying. Swinburne University is pleased to welcome Professor Harvey Max Chochinov - Chair of the panel - to deliver this year's Chancellor's Lecture. He is an internationally renowned researcher in palliative care and issues related to dignity towards end-of-life. Professor Chochinov will share his unique personal experiences and perspectives regarding Canada’s entry into Medical Assistance in Dying and pose key questions related to dignity in end of life care. Recorded 23 November 2016

Dr Megan Clark AC discusses why Australia risks falling behind if our universities, researchers and industry fail to develop a strong foundation to form global partnerships and keep pace with the rest of the world. Presented on 02 December 2015.

Jennifer Westacott draws on her experience in both the public and private sectors to explore why and how we need to transform the VET system, in particular, if we are to prepare and equip our future workforce, and enable every Australian to be a part of it. Recorded on 19 June 2014.

Jennifer Westacott draws on her experience in both the public and private sectors to explore why and how we need to transform the VET system, in particular, if we are to prepare and equip our future workforce, and enable every Australian to be a part of it. Recorded on 19 June 2014.

Justice Iain Ross AO, Fair Work Commission President, discusses the obligation of institutions, be they corporations, government bodies, companies or non-profit organisations, to be responsible for their actions and for the appropriate management of resources that have been entrusted to them. Recorded on 25 September 2013.Chancellor's Lecture Series.

Mr Willox outlines how Swinburne graduates can play a pivotal role in the integration of advanced manufacturing capabilities with those of the wider region, forging a path for the 21st century in management, innovation, science and research.

The big questions facing Australia are tackled as world economic and strategic power shift toward Asia. How can we remain competitive in an age of Asia-centric globalisation? What is required to harmonise its relations with China and the US?

Gary Banks AO, Chairman, Productivity Commission presents the Chancellor's lecture: the Productivity Commission's independence underpins its operations, integrity and, ultimately, its contribution to better policy outcomes.

Gary Banks AO, Chairman, Productivity Commission presents the Chancellor's lecture: the Productivity Commission's independence underpins its operations, integrity and, ultimately, its contribution to better policy outcomes.

With climate change confirmed as a critical global issue, and energy security becoming an international priority, there has been renewed interest in nuclear energy to produce electricity with near zero greenhouse gas emissions. Speakers: Ziggy Switkowski, Bill Scales, Linda Kristjanson, Michael Thorn Transcript

With climate change confirmed as a critical global issue, and energy security becoming an international priority, there has been renewed interest in nuclear energy to produce electricity with near zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Creature Technology Company designs and builds extraordinary creatures for theatrical productions around the world, including the renowned touring show Walking with Dinosaurs: the Arena Spectacular.Its founder and director Sonny Tilders, together with John Barcham, general manager of the company, reveal the secrets behind this successful business.

Prominent Australian media identities Dr Margaret Simons, Mr Jonathan Green and Mr Steve Harris will discuss the outlook for journalism in the digital age.

Ms Sally Capp provides insights about football as a business, the disciplines and requirements of running such a business and how it is impacted by the passion that it inspires.Ms Capp has been a director of the Collingwood Football Club since January 2004 and is the first female board director in the history of the Club.This presentation delivered as part of the 2009 Chancellor's Lecture Series.

President Barack Obama came to office on 20 January facing one of the most daunting presidential inboxes in decades. From a world economy in recession, to a changing strategy in Iraq, to new challenges in Afghanistan and Pakistan, the U.S. President has his work cut out for him. President Obama has moved quickly, however, to muster bold responses to these obstacles. Michael Thurston, US Consul General in Melbourne, will examine some of these challenges, discuss how the U.S. President has begun to address them and will explore opportunities for Australia and the United States to jointly overcome what are certainly obstacles of global proportions.