The ICC is designed to inspire participants to consider a variety of pathways in international affairs, assist those actively working towards such careers, and encourage broader engagement with global issues. For over a decade, the conference has served as a platform for young Australians to connect with practitioners, policymakers, and academics who have navigated international careers of their own.

The conference was formally opened with a video message from Foreign Minister Senator the Honourable Penny Wong, who highlighted the importance of international careers in today’s challenging environment. “It is hard to think of a time when a career in international relations has been more interesting or more consequential,” she said.

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Despite recent global tensions and crises, Senator Wong expressed confidence in the resilience and diversity of the Australian people in addressing the challenges ahead. She also recognised the AIIA’s long-standing role in fostering informed debate on international affairs, thanking the institute “for its work explaining Australia in the world and the world to Australia, work that the AIIA in Victoria has been doing for 100 years.”

Throughout the conference, participants had the opportunity to hear from 25 speakers including seasoned diplomats, experienced professionals across government, business, academia, and the not-for-profit sector. Panel discussions and masterclasses provided practical advice on the skills, experiences, and networks required to succeed in internationally focused roles.

By connecting aspiring professionals with leaders in the field, the ICC reflects AIIA Victoria’s commitment to equipping the next generation with the tools and inspiration they need to pursue meaningful careers in international affairs.

This special event, held under the Chatham House Rule, offers a rare opportunity to hear from one of the most prominent figures in the global fight for democracy and human rights. Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, has vowed to continue her late husband’s legacy, denouncing the lies and cruelty of Vladimir Putin’s regime while advocating for a free, democratic Russia.

Navalnaya has addressed audiences at the European Parliament, the Oslo Freedom Forum, the Munich Security Conference, and other leading global forums. She currently serves as Chair of the International Anti-Corruption Foundation Advisory Board and the Human Rights Foundation, and was recently shortlisted for TIME’s Person of the Year. Her courage and commitment have been recognised with the Sergei Magnitsky “Courage Under Fire” Award.

In Melbourne, she will appear in conversation with Peter Hartcher, political and international editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, and a distinguished journalist whose award-winning career has spanned four decades of reporting on power, politics, and global affairs.

The programme will begin with refreshments from 12:15pm, followed by the conversation and Q&A session, closing remarks, and networking. Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase copies of Patriot by Alexei Navalny, which Navalnaya will sign.

“Yulia Navalnaya’s visit comes at a crucial moment for those concerned with the future of democracy and justice in Russia,” according to AIIA Victoria President Richard Iron CMG OBE. “Her voice, and her determination to carry forward the struggle for freedom, will resonate deeply with all who attend.”

Seats for this landmark event are limited, and registration is essential.