The Great Debate *SOLD OUT*

The Great Debate: Local Leadership at a Crossroads - Hear. Question. Decide.

Are you ready to make an informed decision in the upcoming state election? Join us for The Great Debate, a pivotal evening of leadership dialogue, policy, and vision, hosted by Notre Dame University, in partnership with esteemed local leaders. This exclusive event features candidates for the State Electorate of Fremantle, discussing the issues that matter most to us. This is your chance to hear first hand how each candidate plans to tackle the challenges and opportunities facing our first love - Freo (and our state). Whether it’s cost of living, education, the environment, or the economy, this event will give you the clarity you need to decide who is best for Fremantle’s future. This debate promises to be both rigorous and enlightening.

When: Wednesday 19 February 2025

Time: 6.00 pm for a 6.30 pm (sharp start) 

Where: Notre Dame University | Tannock Hall

Moderated and *hosted by a distinguished panel of local leaders and community influencers. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness democracy in action and make up your mind before heading to the polls. Note - Audience members will have the opportunity to ask candidates questions via Slido and also via our open townhall programming. Seating is limited, so secure your spot now! 

*THE GREAT DEBATE WILL BE HOSTED BY …

Professor Martin Drum

Professor Drum is the Executive Dean for the Faculty of Arts, Sciences, Law and Business, and Professor of Politics and International Relations at the University of Notre Dame Australia. He has taught and researched on a range of issues including public policy, voting, elections, and Australian politics. He has been a WA Convenor of the Electoral Regulation Research Network since 2017 and is a member of Australasian Studies of Parliament Group. He has participated in a range of Commonwealth and Western Australian parliamentary government inquiries, including the inquiry into Political Donations in 2020 (WA). Professor Drum was appointed to the Ministerial Expert Committee on Electoral Reform in 2021. Its recommendations led to the reform of the voting system for the Legislative Council in Western Australia.

Hon Michael Barker KC

Michael Barker KC is a former Judge of the Western Australian Supreme Court and the Federal Court of Australia. He was also the foundation President and architect of the WA State Administrative Tribunal and a former Non-Executive Director of Environmental Defenders Office Limited. Barker is a trusted Fremantle local leader and the creator of the beloved Fremantle Shipping News.

Chrissie Maus FAIM WA

Ms Maus is the CEO of the Fremantle Chamber of Commerce, the leading voice for business in the port city of Western Australia. In November 2024, the Stephen Michael Foundation proudly announced Ms Maus's appointment as their first female Chairperson. Chrissie has been instrumental in numerous brave social impact initiatives, and was awarded National AMI Leader of the Year 2018. Ms Maus also sits as a Company Director on the Destination Perth board. Prior to her role in the most eclectic and spirited seaside destination in the world, Fremantle, she was the CEO of the largest retail and entertainment precinct in Australia – Melbourne’s Chapel Street. Earning her stripes in TV and radio over 20 years ago, she’s gone on to carve out a reputation as a respected leader, captivating speaker, accomplished marketer, trusted non-executive director and cheeky trailblazer.

Please note, if you do not pre-register, there is a high chance you will be turned away on the night and unable to view the debate.