In the space of 5 years, Conversation at the Crossroads has initiated innovative projects, staged some 50 events, brought together in conversation over 2,000 people, and communicated with thousands more.

The work has only just begun, and for this we call on your generous support.

Our vision and our mission remain the same: to create a vibrant public conversation that addresses the pressing challenges of our time.

We have ambitious plans to develop our national and international profile, stimulate creative conversations across cultures and generations, and create partnerships that connect groups and issues.

Central to our planning is the Strategic Initiative for Democratic Renewal

Democracy everywhere is faltering. We live in the midst of a deep malaise fed by a short-sighted and self-seeking political class, fake news and bigotry. The result: citizens disengage from civic life, mistrust spreads, and extremist narratives fill the vacuum.

Building on this year’s Citizen Assembly project, we are developing a carefully crafted model of deliberative democracy, to be applied not only to the political arena, but also to the decision-making processes of educational institutions, professional associations, trade unions, businesses, and importantly civil society organisations.

In all of this education for democracy will play a vital role.

In 2026, we will maintain and innovate two successful series:

• Big Ideas in the Pub – for engaging conversations over a meal in pleasant surroundings

• “In Conversation with” – an interactive forum with leading thinkers (online & in person)

  Other projects in hand or under consideration include:

• A Youth Engagement Project, supported by some 15 bursaries covering complimentary registration for our events, as well as complimentary tickets for other literary, cultural and social occasions.

• A series of podcasts, on current national and international issues

• Small conversation groups and one or more book clubs

• An enhanced social media presence

We are on the cusp of developing an exciting and much needed program for the next two years and beyond. Possibilities are limitless. We have a highly capable committee that will bring to the task a wealth of experience, skills and insights.

Whether or not this program comes to fruition will depend on whether we raise at least AUD 28,000 over the next several months. A good part of this will be needed to employ the services of a part-time administrative and communications assistant.

Which is why we’ve set up a PLEDGE SCHEME to which you’re invited to contribute: monthly, quarterly or annually. One-off donations are also welcome.