Panel discussions
Join us for three insightful panel discussions at Reconciliation Day, where experts and community leaders will engage in meaningful conversations about reconciliation and related topics.
These discussions provide a platform to explore diverse perspectives, share experiences, and foster a deeper understanding of the journey towards reconciliation. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of important dialogues that aim to inspire and educate.
All panel discussions will take place in the Speakers Tent.
Discussion 1
History is still calling: The role of young people in carrying forward the Uluru Statement movement.
11.15am - 12.15pm
In the wake of the 2023 referendum, many young Australians—both First Nations and non-Indigenous—have been left questioning the direction of our nation. History is Still Calling is a powerful panel discussion led by emerging leaders who refuse to let the conversation end with a “no” vote. This dynamic dialogue will explore how young people are carrying forward the Uluru Statement from the Heart, advocating for truth-telling, structural reform, and intergenerational justice. With a focus on resilience, community, and the unique role Canberrans played in supporting the Voice, this discussion will be a call to action for all generations to continue the movement for recognition and real change.
Panel members
Stassi Austin
Jemma Rule
Dylan Rafel Adems
Bridget Calma
Discussion 2
Truth Listening: Do we need to focus on truth listening as much as truth telling?
12.25pm - 1.25pm
While truth-telling has been central to the reconciliation movement in Australia, this thoughtful panel will explore an equally important question: are we listening deeply enough? Truth Listening invites a powerful conversation about the role of non-Indigenous Australians in genuinely hearing and holding the truths shared by First Nations peoples—truths that have long been spoken, yet often unheard. Drawing from the Uluru Statement from the Heart, the Bringing Them Home Report, and Larissa Behrendt’s reflections on deep listening, this discussion will examine how listening with patience, humility, and respect can transform understanding into action. Together, we’ll ask: what does it take to truly listen, and how can we build a culture that values and nurtures this kind of listening as a foundation for meaningful reconciliation?
Panel members
Fiona Cornforth
Janet Hunt
Tim Rowse
Laura Rademaker
Discussion 3
Bridging Now to Next: Overcoming uncertainty with interconnectedness.
2.10pm - 3pm
More than two decades after 250,000 people walked across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in a powerful act of solidarity, the journey toward reconciliation continues—nonlinear, complex, and deeply interconnected. Bridging Now to Next explores how we can face today’s challenges by embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being, and doing. This panel will delve into the strength of systems thinking, the value of respect-based relationships, and the need to move beyond siloed approaches to create lasting change. Grounded in the wisdom of thinkers like Tyson Yunkaporta, our speakers will explore how interconnection and collective responsibility can guide us through uncertainty and help us shape a more just and resilient future.
Panel members
Karl Briscoe
Katrina Fanning
Karen Mundine