For our upcoming Afternoon Light Live, we are delighted to welcome renowned political commentator and historian Paul Kelly to discuss his major new book, The Twilight of Exceptionalism: The Liberal and Conservative Era.

In conversation with Georgina Downer, Paul will examine one of the most turbulent periods in modern Australian politics, tracing the Coalition governments of Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison from 2013 to 2022. Drawing on decades of experience covering Australian politics, Kelly explores how the Liberal Party lost its long-standing connection with the Australian electorate and why an era of political and economic exceptionalism has given way to uncertainty and decline.

The discussion will consider the challenges that have shaped contemporary Australia, including climate change, economic reform, cultural polarisation, technological disruption and growing strategic competition in our region. It will also explore what Australia must do to restore confidence in its institutions and renew its national purpose.

Paul and Georgina will speak for approximately 30 minutes, followed by audience Q&A.

We invite you to join us online OR attend in person (if you are in Melbourne) at the Robert Menzies Institute by registering via Eventbrite.

Event Details

Date: Thursday 23 July 2026
Time: 3pm-4pm (AEST)
Venue: Live Online over Zoom/ Robert Menzies Institute, Old Quad, East Wing, University of Melbourne, Parkville (for live audience).
Tickets: FREE registration to join online available HERE/ To attend in person, register HERE (limited seating)

This is a non-catered event.

Paul and Georgina will talk for the first 30 min, and the next 30 min will be audience Q&A.

ABOUT PAUL KELLY

Paul Kelly is Editor-at-Large on The Australian. He was previously Editor-in-Chief of the paper and he writes on Australian politics, public policy and international affairs.

Paul has covered Australian governments from Gough Whitlam to Anthony Albanese.

He is a regular television commentator and the author and co-author of twelve books books including The End of Certainty on the politics and economics of the 1980s. His recent books include Triumph and Demise on the Rudd-Gillard era and The March of Patriots which offers a re-interpretation of Paul Keating and John Howard in office.