Overview

The Forum of Federations and ANZSOG invite you to join a timely online discussion following the recent address by the Canadian Prime Minister to the Australian Parliament — a significant moment highlighting the changing role of middle-power democracies in an increasingly complex global landscape.

Canada, Australia, and New Zealand share Westminster traditions, strong institutional connections, and similar governance pressures. Each country is operating within a more challenging strategic environment, facing rising public expectations, and experiencing growing demands to deliver quickly while upholding transparency, accountability, and trust.

This virtual event will bring together leading experts in governance and senior diplomatic figures from across the three nations to reflect on what this moment signals for the future of public governance — and how institutions can remain effective, resilient, and worthy of public confidence.

What We’ll Explore

During this one-hour online session, the panel will examine:

• The central themes and key messages from the Canadian Prime Minister’s address and what they mean for Australia.
• How public sectors can operate with greater flexibility and practicality while safeguarding legitimacy and trust.
• Lessons from Canada’s evolving public administration practices and their relevance in the Australian setting.
• Practical insights for leaders managing uncertainty, complexity, and heightened public scrutiny.

Key Participants

Speakers

• Taki Sarantakis, President, Canada School of Public Service
• Professor Janine O’Flynn, Director, ANU Crawford School of Public Policy
• Iain Rennie, CNZM, Secretary and Chief Executive, The Treasury

Panel Chair

• Professor Caron Beaton-Wells, Dean & CEO, ANZSOG

Welcome Remarks

• Rupak Chattopadhyay, President & CEO, Forum of Federations

Why Attend

This discussion will provide:

• Comparative perspectives from three Westminster systems responding to global disruption.
• Actionable ideas to enhance public sector capability and responsiveness.
• Greater clarity on leading with integrity, transparency, and purpose in a demanding and rapidly evolving environment.

Event Details

• Friday, 13 March 2026
• 10:00am–11:00am AEDT
• 1-hour online session (via livestream)

The Forum of Federations and ANZSOG will host this event.

Join the Conversation

Wherever you are based, take part online in this focused and engaging discussion on how Australia and Aotearoa can help shape and strengthen their governance futures in an era of rapid global change.