Roundtable Discussion
with Melanie Brock AM, one of Australia’s leading Japan specialists
Date: Monday, 29 April, 2026
Location: Winthrop Hall, The University of Western Australia
The Perth USAsia Centre is pleased to host an exclusive roundtable discussion with one of Australia’s leading Japan specialists, Melanie Brock AM, moderated by Paula Rogers.
This high-level conversation will explore Australia–Japan strategic engagement, with a particular focus on defence and industrial collaboration, and the broader implications for industry, policy, and bilateral cooperation.
Event details
Designed for a select group of WiDA WA members, the roundtable offers a valuable opportunity to engage directly in a moderated, peer-level discussion, build confidence in senior forums, and contribute to informed dialogue alongside leaders from industry, government, and the policy community.
Ahead of the session, participants will be invited to attend an online briefing to support effective participation, covering the purpose, structure, and etiquette of roundtables, and how to contribute strategically in high-level discussions.
Guest speaker
Melanie Brock AM
One of Australia’s leading Japan specialists
Melanie is widely regarded as one of Australia’s pre-eminent Japan experts, with a distinguished career spanning executive leadership and strategic advisory roles across business, government and media. She combines deep language capability with extensive political, commercial and diplomatic networks, underpinned by practical board-level experience.
In recognition of her significant contribution to advancing Australia–Japan relations, Melanie was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2022 and received the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation in 2020. She currently serves as a non-executive director on the boards of major Japanese corporations, including Asahi Group Holdings, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Mitsubishi Estate, and Sega Sammy Holdings.
A longstanding advocate for gender equality in Japan, she also founded the not-for-profit organisation Celebrating Women in Japan.
Venue
Winthrop Hall
The University of Western Australia
35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley WA 6009
Roundtables with the Centre
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