In an insightful gathering at the Western Australian Museum, hosted in collaboration with the Foundation for the WA Museum and the Forrest Research Foundation, thought leaders gathered to explore the concept of a Future Generations Act for Western Australia. The event, held on 28 April, brought together distinguished speakers who delved into the pressing need for governments, businesses, nonprofits, and academia to plan for a sustainable future amid complex environmental, economic, and social challenges.
The panel, moderated by Dominique Mecoy OAM, Leadership WA Chief Executive Officer, featured Sophie Howe, former Future Generations Commissioner for Wales (2016-2023); Professor Peter Klinken AC, Chief Scientist of Western Australia; and Kate Kirwin, 2024 WA Young Australian of the Year. The discussion focused on policy, sustainability, and innovation, emphasizing the importance of proactive legislation to safeguard the well-being of future generations.
Sophie Howe, described by The Guardian as ‘the World’s First Minister for the Unborn,’ shared her unique insights from her tenure as Wales’ Future Generations Commissioner. She discussed the transformative policies on climate, education, and social justice she helped champion, which have inspired global governance models for future generations.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging Western Australia to draw inspiration from Wales’ innovative Future Generations Act and incorporate similar legislation to ensure today’s decisions reflect tomorrow’s needs. The dialogue underscored a collective vision for policy-driven, sustainable development that honours the responsibility to future generations.
Photo credit: Michael Goh, 7 to 1 Photography
