Political leaders and experts converge for Victoria's post-election conference
Established by Emeritus Professor Dame Margaret Clark, the national conference has been a fixture in New Zealand’s political calendar following every general election since 1987.
Professor Stephen Levine from Victoria’s Political Science programme says the line-up of speakers at the 2017 conference will appeal to political enthusiasts and everyday observers alike.
“The 2017 New Zealand general election was unique in many ways, and was closely observed by political commentators around the world. The programme of our latest conference reflects perspectives from across the political spectrum, and will provide first-hand insights into what happened during and after the campaign trail, and why.”
The event, to be opened by the new parliamentary Speaker, Trevor Mallard, will feature 'valedictory' speeches from two departing Members of Parliament, the Māori Party's Te Ururoa Flavell and United Future's Peter Dunne. The conference will also feature talks from commentators, journalists and academics on topics such as party leaders' performance in televised debates, the media's coverage of Jacinda Ardern, and negotiating tactics in the process of government formation.
The keynote speech will be given by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who will be followed by Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters and the Green Party's Co-leader James Shaw. Former Prime Minister Bill English and National's campaign director Steven Joyce will provide National's perspective on the election and its aftermath, while MP David Seymour will offer his assessment of the 2017 ACT campaign.
When: 8.30am - 5.00pm, Wednesday 6 December 2017
Where: Legislative Council Chamber, Parliament Buildings, Wellington
Registration closes on 30 November – register for the conference here