This is a past event. Registration is closed. View other Australian Institute of International Affairs Victoria events.
Free event, but in-person tickets limited, and pre-registration essential.
In an era marked by global uncertainty, strategic competition, and shifting alliances, the geopolitical landscape between Australia and Europe is evolving rapidly.
The 2025 Europe Day Seminar will provide an in-depth exploration of the progression in the European Union (EU) strategic partnership with Australia. It will highlight the importance of emerging economic, research cooperation in addressing the challenges arising from the evolving international landscape.
This event will bring together leading voices in diplomacy and academia to explore the contours of a new geopolitics – shaped by shared values, economic resilience, security cooperation, and global governance challenges.
Initial negotiations for the EU-Australia Free Trade Agreement stalled in 2023. An increasingly unstable geopolitical environment presents a growing pressure on Australia to resume negotiations with the EU on several fronts. Thus, critical new incentives are emerging for Australia and Europe to strengthen ties. Europe Day is to celebrate peace and unity. With global tensions escalating, it is more critical than ever to invest in collaborative efforts between the EU and Australia.
The role of Australian universities and research organisations in shaping future strategic collaborations with the EU has reached a significant milestone within the context of current geopolitical developments. The prospect of participating in Horizon Europe, the world's largest collaborative research funding program, presents substantial opportunities for Australian universities.
Our panellists will include:
- H.E. Mr. Gabriele Visentin, European Union Ambassador to Australia
- Dr. Christian Hirst, First Assistant Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) Europe Division
- Vicki Thomson, CEO Group of Eight
- Prof. Bruce Wilson, European Union Centre of Excellence at RMIT University, Moderator.
Please be kindly advised that due to schedule commitments Speakers will be joining online.
This event is hosted by the RMIT University EU Centre and
the Australian Institute of International Affairs Victoria.
PROGRAM
12:30pm: Registrations open for in-person guests.
12:30pm – 12:45pm: A light lunch will be offered with an opportunity for networking.
12:45pm – 1:45pm: Europe Day Seminar.
1:45pm: Q&A opportunity.
2.00pm: Event concludes.
For in-person attendees, the location is RMIT University, Council Chamber, 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne 3000.
To download the flyer please click here.
Sponsors and Partners
RMIT University, Council Chamber, 124 La Trobe Street, Melbourne 3000
