06:00 PM - 07:30 PM, 17 Feb 2016: After Russell Brand: Making Democracy Work Better for YOU!

Globally, democracies are under pressure – and local government is no exception. A crucial factor for citizens is real power and influence over the decisions that effect their lives. State and local governments are implementing new measures to enable more direct and meaningful citizen participation, but it’s rare for real power to be given freely.

So what’s the catch? Who supports true citizen-empowerment and why? What power-sharing arrangements are on the table, and on what issues? What can you do to make sure democratic innovations like citizen juries and participatory budgeting aren’t a passing fad, but the new way your city, state and nation do business?

I’ll be hosting this Melbourne Conversation with confirmed panelist Maria Katsonis, Director, Equality, Department of Premier and Cabinet, Victoria and additional speakers to be confirmed.

Where: Deakin Edge, Federation Square, Corner of Swanston & Flinders Streets, Melbourne VIC 3000

This Event is Free and Open to the Public but Bookings are Encouraged