[NEXT]

Welcome to our series of 12 forums designed to delve into different aspects of our rapidly changing world. The purpose behind these forums is to assemble perspectives and expertise across different fields to address challenges and grasp the opportunities of our time. 

From governance and education to energy and transportation, each forum focuses on a unique area of interest, encouraging discussion, promoting innovation, and facilitating participant collaboration.

These forums are structured to provide an overview and actionable insights into:

NEXT Housing


Focusing on the challenges and solutions in providing adequate housing stock that's affordable and secure. The housing conversation is complex and diverse, encompassing various forms ranging from single-family homes and multi-residential buildings to community and social housing. We aim to dissect and understand these facets in our Housing Forum through focused discussions and explorations of key issues. Here's how we're structuring our exploration: Key Topics of Discussion: Property Market This segment explores the diverse typologies of housing, examining trends, challenges, and opportunities within the property market. Urban Density and Planning We seek to understand how urban density integrates into the property market. This includes discussions on innovative urban planning concepts like the '15-minute City,' which aims to create environments where all residents can meet their needs within a short walk or cycle from their homes. Innovations in Sustainability This section focuses on groundbreaking approaches like Passive House standards, which aim for ultra-low energy consumption in residential buildings. Community Housing We analyse the structure and impact of community housing, including how it's scaled and its role in providing stability. Secure vs. Insecure Housing This discussion centres on the implications of housing security. We consider how secure housing supports community stability and personal well-being, in contrast to the challenges posed by insecure housing, which can lead to social and economic instability. Through the Housing Forum we aim to foster a comprehensive understanding of housing's role in society and identify actionable solutions that enhance the quality and accessibility of housing in diverse communities.   

 

NEXT Place


Exploring the concept of 'place' in urban planning, architecture, and community building. The Place Forum focuses on 'place' rather than just buildings or construction. A place is where humans meet, work, and live. It encompasses facilities that support these activities, such as train stations, which are hubs of movement, infrastructure, and services, centrally located to accommodate living, working, and recreation. Key Topics of Discussion: Public Spaces Exploring how spaces like parks and plazas fit into our daily lives. Work and Commerce Examining the evolving dynamics of workplaces and commercial areas. Industry Looking at how industrial spaces are integrating into larger community plans. Recreation and Community Discussing the changing landscapes of areas dedicated to leisure and community gatherings. Urban Density and Amenities Delving into how the density of places and the amenities they offer are transforming in response to changing needs. Join us at the Place Forum to understand more about our spaces and how they adapt to new challenges and opportunities.   

 

NEXT Education


Reflecting on the transformations in educational models from early learning through lifelong learning. The Education Forum focuses on the transformative needs of education, from early childhood through K-12 and higher education to lifelong learning. We recognise that the field of education is continuously evolving. Historically, education emphasised memorisation (Version 1), shifted towards critical thinking (Version 2) and is now progressing towards creativity and problem-solving (Version 3). Key Topics of Discussion: Lifelong Learning Exploring continuous educational opportunities beyond traditional schooling to adapt to an ever-changing world. Personalised Education Addressing the unique needs of students, including those with special needs, with tailored educational approaches. Evolution of Educational Models Reflecting on how educational models have transformed from memorising facts to fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Preparing Future Generations Discuss strategies for equipping students and professionals with the skills they need for the future. Join us at the Education Forum to delve into these topics, examining the provision of education and the evolving needs of those seeking education for their futures.  

 

NEXT Governance


Analysing the principles and practices that guide organisations and governments. The Governance Forum examines how governance principles are applied across different sectors, from government bodies to corporate entities. It focuses on establishing, adhering to, and sometimes challenging the rules and regulations that shape our interactions within communities and organisations. Key Topics of Discussion: Regulations and Standards Understanding the role of governance in meeting or failing to meet community standards and the consequences of each. Future of Governance Analysing the evolving requirements for effective governance, particularly in response to new challenges posed by technological and societal changes. Transformations in Governance Discuss necessary changes in governance practices to ensure they remain relevant and effective as other areas evolve. Tech Regulations and Legislation Delving into how governance adapts to the rapid pace of technological advancements. Balancing Interests Exploring the dynamics between lobbyists and community-originated initiatives and how governance can mediate these often conflicting interests. Join us at the Governance Forum to gain insights into the critical role of governance today and its impact on shaping a sustainable future for all.  

 

NEXT Food


Discussing the nexus of nutrition, sustainability, and technology in our food systems. Food is the essence of life, vital alongside water and sunlight. Our forum explores how food not only sustains us but also challenges us. The old saying goes that most people are just a few missed meals away from a revolution, underscoring the profound impact of food security. Key Topics of Discussion: Nutritional Choices We'll discuss how food can be a source of abundant nutrients or a challenge to our well-being. A high-nutrient diet supports a productive and energised life, whereas a low-nutrient diet can sap our energy, diminish our mental stamina, and shorten our lifespan. Resource Consumption Modern food systems involve significant transportation, consuming vast resources. We'll explore shifts towards less transportation-intensive models, such as the '15-minute city,' where food is produced locally. The Local Movement advocates for locally produced food, reducing transportation needs and supporting community-based agriculture. Alternative Foods and Methods We will also look into alternate foods and propagation methods that promise to transform our food supply. Join us at the Food Forum to examine these aspects of food and nutrition and discuss how they influence our health, community, and environment.  

 

NEXT Health


Delving into advancements and challenges in personal and public health landscapes Health is a multifaceted concept that encompasses community health, personal health, reactive health, and proactive health. We are entering the era of Health 3.0, a new domain that will revolutionise our approach to healthcare by integrating advanced technologies and shifting perspectives. Key Topics of Discussion: Health Education for Teens Addressing teenagers' unique health challenges and empowering them with knowledge for better personal health. Health 3.0 Exploring the next generation of healthcare that combines technology and personalised treatment plans to enhance patient care. Personalised Health Emphasising the importance of tailored health strategies that meet individual needs, leveraging personal health records and cutting-edge diagnostics. Health Records Discussing the critical role of accessible and secure personal health records in managing and optimising health outcomes. Join us at the Health Forum to discover how we can break old habits and adopt new, proactive approaches to health, ensuring longer, healthier lives. This shift includes significant advances in treating chronic illnesses like cancer and an increased focus on mental health to support a thriving mindset in our modern world.   

 

NEXT Tech


Investigating how technological advancements are shaping industries and everyday life. The Tech Forum focuses on understanding the transformative power of technology and its implications for society. While technology accelerates progress, it also presents challenges, such as its impact on teenagers through social media. This forum aims to delve into how we can harness technology positively to shape our future. Key Topics of Discussion: Human Assistants Examining how AI and robotics can enhance daily living and productivity. Exoskeletons Exploring advances in wearable technology that can augment human capabilities in healthcare and industry. Digital Transformation Discussing the integration of digital technology into all business areas, fundamentally changing how you operate and deliver value to customers. Space Exploration Assessing the latest developments in space technology and their potential benefits for Earth. Space Hire Company Analysing the growth of businesses that offer temporary space solutions powered by technology, from offices to event venues. Join us at the Tech Forum to explore how technology can be a force for good, helping us navigate the challenges and seize future opportunities.   

 

NEXT Strategy


Exploring innovative approaches to planning and execution in work and personal contexts. The Strategy Forum addresses various strategic concerns, from personal life decisions to broad company policies. Here, we dive into different strategic frameworks, opportunities for the future, and ways to seize the moment in a changing world. Key Topics of Discussion Frameworks for Success Exploring the Thriving Framework We start by examining the "Thriving Framework," a tool designed to guide individuals and organisations towards sustained success. This framework helps identify paths that leverage current trends and anticipate future needs. Identifying Opportunities Spotting Economic Shifts In this segment, we analyse emerging economic trends to pinpoint opportunities in ascending sectors. We focus on understanding which areas are gaining importance and which are declining, helping participants align with "sunrise" industries. Seizing the Moment Capitalising on Immediate and Long-Term Opportunities: We discuss how to recognise and act on immediate and long-term opportunities. Australia is experiencing a boom in infrastructure, creating numerous job prospects in the tech, biotech, engineering, and infrastructure sectors. We aim to equip participants with the knowledge to identify and pursue these opportunities, whether just around the corner or part of a 10——to 20-year plan. Through these focused discussions, the Strategy Forum seeks to empower individuals and organisations to make informed decisions and align with future trends for lasting success. Join us to explore strategic insights that can transform your approach and position you for growth.  

 

NEXT Entertainment


Navigating the Future of the Industry. Entertainment encompasses many forms, including books, movies, games, music, and nightlife. One of the most pressing issues facing the entertainment industry today is the decline of traditional revenue streams for professional musicians, signalling broader challenges across creative fields. Key Topics of Discussion Music Industry Transformation We'll explore musicians' future in the streaming era, where traditional music sales have plummeted. Discussions will centre on innovative remuneration models to ensure artists are fairly compensated. Live Performances We'll examine the challenges and opportunities in live music, address the tensions between venue operators and musicians, and explore paths towards more sustainable live performance models. Gaming Industry Boom The gaming sector is not only thriving but also expanding its influence on personal enjoyment and health. We'll discuss how games like Tetris are being used to enhance cognitive flexibility, particularly benefiting those with active neurological conditions. Join us at the Entertainment Forum as we delve into these dynamic topics, exploring how entertainment can adapt and thrive in a changing world.  

 

NEXT Nations


Understanding and Innovating National Governance. The Nations Forum explores the complexities of governance across diverse political systems, from democracies to dictatorships. Initially inspired by the United Nations, our focus expanded to how individual nations operate, innovate, and adapt in a global context. Key Topics of Discussion: Federations and Corporations Examining the roles and interactions between governmental federations and global corporations. Globalisation Discussing the impacts of globalisation on national policies and economies. Digital Scaling How nations can leverage digital technology to enhance governance and service delivery. Legislation Catch-Up Addressing the challenges nations face in updating laws to keep pace with rapid technological and social changes. Groups of Nations Analysing the dynamics within groups of nations, including micro, medium, and large regions, and their interactions with entities like the UN. UN 2.0 Considering reforms and innovations within the United Nations, including issues related to veto powers. Rising Africa and Collapsing Russia Debating the shifting geopolitical landscapes, focusing on emerging powers and those in decline. Join us at the Nations Forum to engage in vital conversations about how nations can navigate and shape the future of global governance.  

 

NEXT Energy


Focusing on the transition towards sustainable energy sources and the future of global energy needs. The Energy Forum is dedicated to exploring the dynamic and rapidly evolving energy sector. While the last hundred years have been dominated by carbon-based fuels, the next thirty years are set to transform dramatically into a landscape fueled by renewables and innovative energy sources not yet introduced to the market. Key Topics of Discussion: Energy Transition We're witnessing a significant shift from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydrogen, along with emerging technologies like wave energy and pumped hydro. Energy Challenges The rise of AI and advanced computing has increased our energy demands, presenting challenges in meeting future needs with existing and new fuel sources. Global Impact Energy has historically driven wars and enabled communities, but restrictions can also disable them. Understanding this complex dynamic is crucial for navigating future geopolitical landscapes. Engagement and Awareness Most people are not intimately familiar with the intricacies of the energy sector. Our forum aims to enhance your understanding and interaction with this critical topic, covering immediate, emergent, and future considerations. Join us at the Energy Forum to deepen your knowledge of how energy innovation can shape our world, from community development to global politics.  

 

NEXT Transport


Understanding the evolving dynamics of how we move people and goods. The Transport Forum is tailored for those interested in how we navigate our world, from mass transit systems like buses and trains to personal mobility options. We examine how transport methods such as long-haul flights, rail systems, and urban vehicular traffic are evolving, especially in the "15-minute city", where the focus shifts from car-centric designs to prioritising pedestrians and mass transit. Key Topics of Discussion: Mass Transit Understanding how large-scale transport systems are adapting to current needs. Personal Mobility Exploring personalised transport options and their role in daily life. Long Haul vs. Short Trips Discussing the differences in systems designed for long-distance travel versus local commutes. Future Streetscapes Considering how urban streets transform to support shifting from fossil fuels towards more sustainable practices. Post-Fossil Fuel Transport Delving into what transport might look like in a world less dependent on fossil fuels. Join us at the Transport Forum to explore how these developments affect utilities, infrastructure, and personal transport choices, shaping the future of mobility.