Driven by promises of cleaner energy and a more sustainable future, Australia is undergoing a major energy transition with large equity implications and impacts - those on lower incomes, workers in trade-exposed industries, the next generation shouldering the public debt caused by the rollout and many regional residents and communities, are being affected disproportionately.

Yet there has been relatively little public discussion about the equity aspects of the energy transition, let alone a comprehensive policy response. Vote-catching electricity bill relief does not begin to get to grips with the scale of the complex problem.

This Big Dialogue will address relevant questions such as: Does the energy transition benefit everyone, or only certain socio-political groups? Can it be just and fair? If so, how? Expect diverse perspectives as our speakers unpack who gains, who misses out and what policy or practical steps might ensure a more just transition.

This public discussion event, presented by Ormond College in association with Australian Dialogues, is the third in an informal series of Big Dialogues on energy transition - see details of previous ones at The Tivoli in Brisbane in 2023 and Melbourne Town Hall last year in this list of Dialogues events.

ABOUT THE FORMAT

The Big Dialogue format has been developed over the last five years to demonstrate that contentious issues can still be discussed frankly, fearlessly and civilly, in a non-partisan way, in public, by people of goodwill, in good faith, in pursuit of truth, progress - and better policy and practical outcomes.

The aim of argument, or of discussion, should not be victory, but progress. Joseph Joubert

Big Dialogues are long-form public discussions between a small panel of knowledgeable speakers with very different perspectives, expertly moderated, in a congenial atmosphere, exploring differences, seeking common ground and possible agreement on solutions. They have consistently shown that such discussions are not only possible, but enlightening and enjoyable.

Past subjects addressed include universal basic income, the China-Australia relationship, climate change, democratic reform, pandemic management, energy transition, housing and social media impacts/regulation.

SPEAKER PROFILES

Moderator


James Brown - Associate Research Fellow at Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Childrens Hospital

Panellists


Gavin Dufty - National Director Energy Policy and Research, St Vincent de Paul Society

Gavin Dufty is the National Director of Energy Policy and Research at St Vincent de Paul Society, focusing on the challenges faced by disadvantaged and vulnerable households in the energy market. He leads research into energy affordability, disconnections, concessions, and price tracking, influencing national energy policy and regulation. Gavin has served on numerous industry and government advisory panels, including the AER, AEMC, AEMO, ESC, and major energy retailers and distributors. He proudly led Vinnies Victoria’s Climate Active certification in 2020. His work continues to centre on creating a fairer, more inclusive energy system for all Australians.

Zoe Hilton - Senior Policy Analyst at the Centre for Independent Studies

Zoe Hilton is a Senior Policy Analyst at the Centre for Independent Studies, where she leads bold conversations in the Energy Program. She co-authored The Six Fundamental Flaws Underpinning the Energy Transition and brings sharp analysis to national media outlets including The Australian, AFR, and The Spectator Australia. Her YouTube series breaks down energy modelling and policy debates for broader audiences.

Before joining CIS, Zoe was a Senior Policy Advisor in the NSW Government, shaping strategies and launching initiatives across science, innovation, trade, and skilled migration. With a background that spans scientific research and policy reform, she thrives at the intersection of data, systems thinking, and public impact. Today, she channels that curiosity into tackling Australia’s toughest energy challenges—with clarity, urgency, and a deep belief in better solutions.

Ross Johns - Director and Farm Owner

Ross has built a career in agribusiness finance and brings decades of experience working with clients across the Australian agricultural sector. He is motivated by the variety of challenges agriculture presents and is particularly interested in the financial tools and frameworks that support resilient decision-making. He values the ability to offer choice and flexibility to clients navigating complex industry conditions.

A strong believer in the resourcefulness of people and the power of shared problem-solving, Ross is inspired by the innovation and humility of Australian scientists, researchers and rural communities. He supports education, open dialogue and broadening experiences through travel, and is proud to have three children currently studying at leading Australian universities.

Emily Sims - Strategic Planner, Think-tanker and Advocate

Emily Sims is a strategic planner and policy advocate specialising in housing strategy, land use policy, and renewable energy planning. At Uralla Shire Council, she advises on large-scale renewable projects within the New England Renewable Energy Zone, manages development applications, and leads community engagement to shape strategic planning outcomes that reflect local priorities.

Before joining council, Emily was General Manager of Prosper Australia, directing research and advocacy on land economics, housing affordability, and tax reform. She has also served as a Policy Officer with the Planning Institute of Australia and is a Trustee of the Henry George Foundation of Australia. Emily holds a Master of Urban Planning from the University of Melbourne and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and International Studies from Monash University.

MC

Abbie Ralph - Second year Arts student at the University of Melbourne, Ormond College resident

Abbie Ralph is currently in her second year at the University of Melbourne, resident at Ormond College. She is studying a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in History and English and is also completing a Diploma in French. Originally from Melbourne, Abbie attended high school at Princes Hill Secondary College.

Abbie is deeply passionate about protecting and preserving the natural environment and has been actively involved in numerous student council and college sustainability initiatives.

AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION

• Guests will be able to submit questions for the speakers by email before the event and by SMS during the dialogue 

• A small number of people in the audience will have the opportunity to ask questions from the floor

• The table seating mode is congenial for social discussion before and afterwards 

• Come early, on your own or with friends, family and colleagues

• Review the discussion from the high quality video recording included in the ticket (no live stream)

• Guests will be invited to participate in powerful new online discussion platform to continue the discussion one-on-one with someone of a different view, after the event.

• Really want to get involved? Volunteers always needed!

This event will be conducted under The Brisbane Rule:

All participants agree to listen carefully, speak civilly, and concentrate on the content of discussions, not on characters – before, during and after, online and offline.

EVENT LOGISTICS

Date: Thu 4 Sep 2025

Venue: Ormond College Dining Hall, Ormond College, Melbourne

Doors: 6.15pm meet, greet and seat.

Dinner and dialogue: 7pm to approx 9.30pm

Event ends: 9.30-10pmThe dialogue will start at 7pm sharp, so please arrive no later than 6.45pm and preferably earlier to have a drink and mix with other guests. Stay on afterwards to carry on the discussion.

Premium and Master's tables ticket holders will be welcomed at 6:15pm for a private discussion and drinks with the panelists, moderator and other key members.Sit down meal and drinks included.This is a family-friendly event and teenage attendance is encouraged.Photo ID may be required: tickets are not transferrable unless arranged prior.

TICKET PRICING

Tickets are priced to make the event as accessible as possible, with individual tickets from $10 for students ($5 for Ormond students), enabled by the support of Ormond College and the donation of time and expertise of all the speakers and volunteers, and Master's Tables and Premium ticket buyers and donors.

Hard costs of approximately $60 per person overall need to be covered, so please consider buying a Master's Table or a Premium ticket, donating tickets or making a separate donation to keep events accessible and Australian Dialogues independent, expanding and sustainable.A small number of complimentary tickets are available for those who post a short (20-60 seconds) selfie video to social media on why they are interested in this topic, event or Australian Dialogues generally, and email the link/s to info@brisbanedialogues.org. 

He who knows only his own side of the case, knows little of that.

J.S. Mill

THE ORGANISERS

Ormond College, a residential college affiliated with the University of Melbourne, is a vibrant community for over 500 students, including undergraduates, graduates, and non-residents. It emphasizes a values-driven culture with a focus on personal and intellectual growth, and aims to empower students to make a positive impact. Ormond offers a diverse range of opportunities for its residents, including academic support, social activities, and leadership development.

Australian Dialogues is evolving out of The Brisbane Dialogues, Australia's first civil discourse or "bridging organisation", established in 2020 to model better discussions between people who disagree. Their mission is to support other organisations conduct "across-the-aisle" dialogues. Activities include the Big Dialogues series, a private monthly discussion group (Tuesday Dialogues) and a schools program (Dialogues @ School). An Advisory Panel of leading Australians has been formed to expand the Dialogues' network and efforts.

Get your tickets now, break out of your echo chamber and escape the small screen for a different and better night out!