All Posts

When leaders chose explanation over applause   Something you rarely see anymore is a national leader deliberately stepping into a hostile crowd not to rally supporters, but to explain an unpopular decision.   On 16 June 1996, a cricket field in the small Victorian town of Sale was filled with angry people. The headline speaker was Prime Minister John Howard.   Police advised him not to attend. One senior adviser urged him to wear a bulletproof vest. The crowd was furious, man

On 10 December 2025, Australia became the first country in the world to introduce a nationwide ban on social media accounts for anyone under 16. Depending on your perspective, this move is either a bold step in leadership or a troubling sign of something worse. https://digitalrightswatch.org.au/2025/12/03/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-social-media-ban/ The truth is not simple, and this moment highlights the need for better civics, conversations, and leadership from adults.

Recently, I’ve been asked a question that goes straight to the heart of philanthropy: “Why should I donate to a charity, especially one where I cannot see the impact?” It’s an honest question, and in the dopamine-driven world of instant feedback and short attention spans, it deserves an honest answer. Why charitable organisations exist Charitable organisations exist to address unmet public needs and social or environmental problems. In plain terms, they step into the gaps tha

I first came across the phrase  “same space – different mandates”  during my time in the Australian Defence Force, on a course with the Australian Civil–Military Centre. The idea was simple but powerful: in the middle of a complex emergency – a natural disaster, a conflict zone, a humanitarian crisis – you’ll often find government agencies, the military, and NGOs all operating in the same physical space. They’re on the same ground, meeting some of the same people, often facin

There’s a set of questions I hear over and over again. They don’t come from doubt about young people or what The Odyssey Leadership Foundation is trying to achieve. They come from curiosity about  why  I, personally, have chosen this path. Why the Foundation? Why “Odyssey” Leadership? Isn’t that a massive, impossible task? What’s civics, really? Aren’t there already other organisations doing this? What’s in it for me if I donate or get involved? How do you not lose your fire,

The Sohn Hearts and Minds investors conference, held in Sydney on 14 November 2025, brought together some of the sharpest minds in medical research, investment and finance, science and philanthropy – all in support of medical research. The event provided a unique forum for industry leaders and global thought leaders to connect and share ideas, and it was headlined by a line-up of exceptional speakers. A couple of schools were also invited, with their attendance sponsored, to

Young Australians face many challenges when trying to turn their ideas into reality. Whether it’s starting a community project, launching a small business, or pursuing creative passions, lack of funding often stands in the way. Micro-grants* offer a practical solution by providing small amounts of money to help young people take the first step toward their goals. Donating to micro-grant programs can create lasting change in communities across Australia. This post explores why

Young people today face a complex world filled with challenges and opportunities. Developing strong leadership skills early can shape their future and the future of our communities. Supporting youth leadership programs helps build a foundation of integrity, responsibility, and confidence that lasts a lifetime. This post explores why investing in youth leadership matters, how these programs work, and ways you can contribute to their success. Why Youth Leadership Matters Leader

Australia faces complex social and political challenges that demand engaged, informed citizens. One of the most practical ways to prepare the next generation is to support youth debating . Debate programs develop critical thinking, clear communication, and civic responsibility—skills that lift civic capacity and strengthen democracy. Young Australian student presenting at a debate competition Why Backing Young Debaters Builds Australia’s Civic Capacity Australia faces complex