Business Council of Australia, Sky News and News Corp Australia launch ‘Strong Australia’

Strong Australia will invite Australians living and working outside the city centres of Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, to discuss what they believe are the roadblocks to jobs growth, innovation and social cohesion in their communities.

Strong Australia will visit ten locations around the country, connecting Australia’s industry and policy leaders with local business owners, employers and community leaders at a series of lunch events, to discuss practical and actionable solutions.

Sky News will broadcast a one-hour LIVE panel discussion program Strong Australia from each location, hosted by award-winning Sky News Political Editor David Speers, giving a national voice to the issues affecting that community.

Chief Executive of the Business Council of Australia, Jennifer Westacott said: “Australians aren’t interested in the bickering that dominates our political landscape. If ‘politics as usual’ can’t tackle the challenges we face, our joint Strong Australia campaign will help identify the practical, pragmatic solutions we need.

We want to hear from Australians across the nation. We’re committed to creating jobs, investment and opportunities and we’re determined to recognise the contribution business owners and their employees make in these communities.”

Angelos Frangopoulos, CEO Australian News Channel said: “We’re proud to provide a national broadcast platform that will highlight the issues affecting regional communities across Australia.”

The first Strong Australia business lunch event will be held on Thursday 15 March in Adelaide focusing on “The Future of Work and the South Australian Election.”

Melvin Mansell, SA Editorial Director, News Corp Australia said: "This is a crucial opportunity for debate that provides the chance for Australians to have a voice, in a forum where their voices will be heard."

Business Council of Australia Chief Executive Jennifer Westacott, together with the Australian CEO of BAE Systems, Gabby Costigan, Chief Executive of Adelaide's iconic Haigh's Chocolates, Alister Haigh and Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mike Hirst will headline the panel discussion in Adelaide.

The first LIVE broadcast of the new discussion program Strong Australia will premiere Thursday 15 March at 8:00pm AEDT on Sky News Live, Foxtel Channel 601.