2009 Downtown Lecture Series

The Bendigo Chapter of La Trobe University Alumni Association will present another thought provoking public lecture – the second of the 2009 Downtown Lecture Series - with a presentation from Mr Ken Marchingo – CEO of Loddon Mallee Housing Services (LMHS).

Mr Marchingo will present: “Tell ‘em, they’re dreaming”: Is the Great Australian Dream still relevant? - an exploration of the current Federal Government’s approach to housing policy as enunciated by the Federal Minister for Housing - Tanya Plibersek recently at the Sydney Institute. Mr Marchingo will then critically contrast this with the way Victoria and other states are approaching the current policy challenges and the legacy of past housing policies.

Mr Marchingo will discuss this set against the backdrop of the impact of the current global financial crisis and the Federal Government’s economic stimulus packages, “which will undoubtedly dramatically contribute to a brave new way forward, or, depending on policy settings of the states, perhaps backwards, for the wider affordable housing sector.” Mr Marchingo said. Ken will identify why we have a significant affordable housing problem, and what government initiatives might mean.

Mr Rob Stephenson, Chair of the Bendigo Chapter of La Trobe University Alumni Association said that “Once again the chapter will present a local speaker discussing one of those issues close to Australians’ hearts – housing.” Mr Stephenson then suggested that “Australians like to think of themselves as a nation of home owners, but this is not always the case – affordable housing is a major issue in contemporary Australia.” This topical lecture is essential for anyone interested in the impact of housing policy on all Australians.

The Lecture will commence at 6.00pm on Wednesday 3 June 2009, at the La Trobe University Visual Arts Centre, 121 View St. Bendigo, and will be followed by light refreshments. Attendees are advised to be seated by 5.50pm for a 6.00pm start. RSVP by Monday 1 June to La Trobe Alumni Relations Office, on: (Toll-free) 1300 737 133 or 03 9479 2011 or email: alumni@latrobe.edu.au This free public lecture is sponsored by the Bendigo Chapter of La Trobe University Alumni Association. Donations to the Alumni Scholarship Fund will be appreciated. All are welcome!