Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will headline a dynamic lineup of influential leaders at the 2025 Herald Sun Future Victoria event on Wednesday February 26.
The visionary forum, staged by the Herald Sun in partnership with the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, brings together some of Australia’s top leaders, experts and innovators whose eyes are firmly fixed on what’s next for our state. The event has been running since 2017.
This year’s discussions will centre on key themes including community, major events, tourism, connectivity innovation and education.
With a Federal Election imminent, Victoria remains a crucial battleground, making our voice and vote more important than ever.
The Prime Minister will deliver a keynote address and outline his government’s plans for the state, followed by two high-calibre panels exploring both the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
DATE: Wednesday February 26, 2025
LOCATION: Crown Conference Hall
KEY TIMINGS:
1200 Welcome MC Kieren Gilbert (Sky News Australia Chief Political Reporter)
1205 Opening address: Herald Sun Editor Sam Weir
1235 Prime Minister Anthony Albanese keynote speech (followed by Q&A)
1335 Connectivity, Innovation and Community Panel
- Laura-Anne Bull, Swinburne University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Education, Experience and Employability
- Rory Costelloe Villawood Properties Founder/Co-Executive Director
- Michelle Jablko Transurban CEO
1400 Sports and Entertainment Panel
- Jason Sourasis Western Group Melbourne Executive Chairman
- Mike Volkert Crown Melbourne CEO
- Natalie O’Brien AM Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre Chief Executive
1415 Closing Address Victorian Chamber Chief Executive Paul Guerra
To be attributed to Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Paul Guerra:
“Future Victoria is an incredible opportunity for our premier decision makers in both the private and public sectors to come together and propel Victoria forward. We are proud to be the events, fashion, sporting, food and culture capital and we want Victoria to not just maintain those titles, but to shoot for the stars.
“We are world leaders in education, innovation and growth and we need to be the place to do business. We face significant headwinds like skills and housing shortages, an energy crisis, cost of living woes and global instability but I remain excited about Victoria’s potential.”
To be attributed to Herald Sun Editor Sam Weir:
“The Herald Sun Future Victoria forum is a standout event on the state’s business calendar, driving conversations that are especially important in an election year where Victoria will play such a vital role.
“As the state’s number one media brand, the Herald Sun is dedicated to ensuring a better future for all Victorians - sparking big ideas, bold discussions, and practical solutions.
“We look forward to Mr Albanese revealing his vision to ensure Victoria remains the best place to live, work and raise a family.”
Contact details:
There is limited media capacity. Media are invited to attend and must register attendance with Victorian Chamber Media Manager Gemma Carter.
Gemma Carter, media@victorianchamber.com.au, 0423 883 945
Erika Rutledge, erika.rutledge@news.com.au, 0412 926 796
* Audio splitters are available at the event for TV crews to connect
