Consilium is a fascinating coming together of smart and interesting people to discuss the issues critical to Australia’s future
25 Years of Ideas, Inspiration and Independent Thinking
25 Years of Ideas, Inspiration and Independent Thinking
Georgina Downer
CEO, Robert Menzies Institute
Thought provoking, insightful and well organised, Consilium is a valuable investment in yourself and the community of ideas
Timothy Longstaff
Non-Executive Director
An excellent line up of speakers and topics, encouraging robust discussion in controversial areas
Richard Kovacs
Chairman and CEO, Ottomin Group
Many outstanding speakers and sessions, good opportunities to mix with and talk to other attendees. Consilium is a unique opportunity to step beyond the everyday, to hear from and question outstanding thought leaders on a wide range of topics. It’s an event at which to meet other curious people who are expanding their knowledge and understanding.
James Philips
CIS Board Member
Excellent format and agenda, an inspiring program
Michael Quinn
Managing Partner, Innovation Capital
Consilium really challenges me and gets me out of my comfort zone. CIS has the standing to bring together leading international commentators with different perspectives across a range of contemporary economic, political and social topics. It’s done in a style that makes it easy to engage and ask questions. Overall Consilium is an outstanding and time effective way to learn and develop.
Alison Watkins
Former CIS board member and former Group Managing Director, Coca Cola Amatil
“A unique opportunity in Australia to go deep into many of the issues that matter to our quality of life.
Great international and local speakers, thought provoking debates.”
Michael Rennie
CIS Board Member
Intercontinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
15 to 17 October, 2026
About Consilium
Consilium is back for its 25th edition in October. Consilium, a Latin word meaning a council or group of advisors, is an initiative of The Centre for Independent Studies – Australia’s leading independent public-policy think tank.
From its humble beginnings in 2000, Consilium has grown to become one of Australia’s most prestigious conferences. Over 3 days, leaders of business, politics, academia and the wider community are drawn together for intensive deliberation on major economic, social and cultural issues facing Australia.
The conference promotes free choice, individual liberty, defends cultural freedom, and the open exchange of ideas which exemplifies the CIS mission. We debate a wide range of policy ideas and intellectual arguments to help Australia remain a prosperous and free nation.
We look forward to welcoming you to Consilium 2026.
Who attends Consilium?
Business Leaders
A range of sectors are represented by participants and speakers, including information technology, banking and finance, mining and resources, agriculture, retail, manufacturing, construction and biotechnology.
Public Officials
Senior government legislators from Australia, New Zealand and around the world play an active role in Consilium deliberations, providing insights into current policy developments.
Cultural Leaders
Some of Australia’s most influential community and public opinion leaders attend, including scientists, Indigenous leaders, church officials, media commentators, internationally renowned thinkers, and leading arts figures.
Policy Experts & Academics
Scholars from both private and public research organisations attend Consilium. Our program will feature scholars from Australia, the United States and the UK.
