A Big Dialogue: Is The Constitution Alive?

In a joint initiative between Australian Dialogues and John Anderson Media, join us for a compelling evening on Monday 7 September. In an age of rapid social change and contested institutions, this special dialogue poses one of the most fundamental questions facing our democracy: who really decides what our founding document means today?

The conversation will unpack the clash between originalism, the idea that the Constitution’s meaning is fixed by its original public understanding, and the living constitution approach, which sees the document as evolving with contemporary values. It features an exceptional international panel: former High Court Justice Michael Kirby, leading constitutional scholar Professor Rosalind Dixon, and US Court of Appeals Judges Andrew Oldham and Amul Thapar. Moderated by Professor Lisa Burton Crawford, the discussion will explore who ultimately decides what the Constitution means and how those decisions shape the rights, powers and limits that govern us all.

This is a rare opportunity to hear world-class legal minds engage rigorously and civilly on issues that affect every Australian. Whether you are a lawyer, student, policymaker or simply a citizen who cares about the rule of law and the future of our democracy, join us in the historic setting of the NSW Parliament House for an evening of serious ideas and open debate.

Substantial canapés and drinks will be served from 5:30pm until the formal part of the evening commences at 6:30pm. The event will conclude by 9pm.