Securing our Future

Presented by ANU College of Asia & the Pacific

Securing our future is no ordinary conference, and it’s not just for national security experts. Australia’s strategic problem demands difficult decisions licensed by an inclusive conversation. We also need to understand the intersection of security and wider risks – from economic and social pressures to the climate crisis.

A new national security narrative

Beyond short political cycles and partisanship, how best can our democracy forge a shared understanding of national interests, values and identity? What is the new security narrative we need? And how can this translate to practical strategy, preparing the nation for a complex and contested future?

This conference will inform a distinctly Australian, people-centred vision of national security. Too often, conversations on defence, security, prosperity, social cohesion and sustainability are compartmentalised.

We will explore how these priorities can converge in the national interest. Emphasis will be placed on the resilience and capabilities Australia needs to cope with the interconnection of domestic challenges, Indo-Pacific tensions and global shocks.

What to expect

As a trusted convenor of future-focused education and dialogue, the ANU National Security College will bring together diverse Australian and international voices, bridging disciplines, professions and viewpoints. Our program has more than 20 sessions and more than 60 speakers.

You’ll meet thought leaders and decision makers from government, academia, industry and the community, across dynamic workshops, panels and debates. And we’ll offer creative networking opportunities at the Australian National University’s world-class precinct, Kambri, an ancient ‘meeting place’ reimagined.