In a timely address, ABC Chair, Kim Williams, argues strongly that the role of the media is to preserve and protect democracy. The speech was delivered at the 13th annual John Monash Oration hosted by the General Sir John Monash Foundation and the Commonwealth Bank.  

The intimate evening brought together a distinguished assembly of Foundation members, friends, supporters and Scholars to reflect on the vital role of leadership in shaping Australia’s future.  

Kim has had a distinguished career in the arts, entertainment, and media industries. He has held executive leadership roles within organisations including News Corp Australia, FOXTEL, Fox Studios Australia, and the Australian Film Commission. A passionate advocate for the arts, he has served as Chairman of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Sydney Opera House Trust and was appointed Member of the Order of Australia in 2006 for his services to the arts.  

Zelie Heger (2010 John Monash Scholar), a barrister from Eleven Wentworth Chambers, provides a thoughtful response to Kim’s address from a legislative perspective, underscoring the media’s significant role in the justice system.