Attracting over 500 people, this luncheon event highlighted Melbourne's 20-year transformation into the culturally and economically rich city it is today. Jeff Kennett was the Premier of Victoria from 1992 until 1999, during which time Victoria earned the reputation of being Australia's most reformist state.
Kennett's government implemented wide-ranging economic reforms, as well as focusing on urban planning and cultural projects to bring confidence and vibrancy back to Melbourne. Kennett spoke about Melbourne's transformation from a leadership perspective - political leadership during times of economic hardship, when, despite massive spending cuts, it was a priority to invest in culture and urban regeneration to stimulate prosperity and pride.