Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Honourable Milton Dick MP has chosen Ms Holly Rankin to deliver the fifth Speaker's Lecture at Parliament House on 27 October 2025.
Ms Rankin's lecture – 'Before the Fall: Can civic institutions engage a new generation in time to save democracy?' will explore how politics and traditional media are losing the trust of younger generations, and what a path to true civic engagement could look like in the digital age.
Ms Rankin is an artist and strategist working at the intersection of culture, politics and public affairs. She is best known as ARIA and APRA nominated recording artist Jack River.
She has played a leading role in nation-building campaigns for consent and gender equality and political integrity.
"I was delighted when Ms Rankin accepted my invitation to deliver this year's lecture," the Speaker said.
"The Australian media play a very important role in Australian democracy, and this lecture series provides them the platform to share their unique perspectives."
"I am looking forward to hearing Ms Rankin share her personal experiences and insights into how we can continue to support, inspire and collaborate more strongly with our young people. She has been undertaking some very important work in championing our democracy with our next generation."
Ms Rankin will be introduced by the Speaker and the Clerk of the House of Representatives, Claressa Surtees.
A Q&A session will be held after her speech, with light refreshments.
To attend in-person – tickets are free and available online. It will also be broadcast live on the APH website.
Speaker's Lecture 2025
The annual Speaker's Lecture is hosted by the Speaker of the House of Representatives. It is a prestigious opportunity for leaders in Australia's media landscape to share their insights.
Topic: Can civic institutions engage a new generation in time to save democracy?
Date: Monday 27 October 2025
Time: 11 am – 12 pm AEDT
Venue: Main Committee Room, Parliament House, Canberra
Tickets: Free, available online: Speaker's Lecture 2025
Watch live: www.aph.gov.au/live
