One of Australia's leading voices on community-led democracy, author and former independent Member for Indi, Cathy McGowan AO presents the 2026 Peter Tobin Oration to mark 172nd Anniversary of the Eureka Stockade.
The story of Australian democracy is one of continual negotiation and change. From the demands for representation on Ballarat's goldfields at Eureka, through the social reform and anti-discrimination movements of the 20th century, and community mobilisation in opposition to establishment politics of recent decades, Australians have continually reshaped how political power is exercised and whose voice is heard.
Cathy McGowan came to national prominence when she was elected as the independent Member for Indi in 2013 and again in 2016. As a forerunner of a wave of community-backed independents that have since challenged the dominance of establishment party politics, Cathy brings a unique perspective on the forces likely to shape the next chapter of Australian democracy.
Following her talk, Cathy will be joined by Van Badham for a conversation on the future of democracy.
