This annual festival brings Melburnians together to explore and discuss, to share ideas, to challenge assumptions, and to spark new ways of thinking. Take part in events for all ages in the four venues centrally located around the city including the festival Hub at the heritage-listed Meat Market in North Melbourne. Unable to attend in person, head to the digital hub for access to all virtual events, with links to live streams, opportunities to network, and access to digital content.
Spanning seven days, the broad program of events, workshops, and performances celebrates Melbourne’s rich heritage and potential for innovation. From advances in technology and the rise of artificial intelligence to social and political unrest, global health crises, and nationwide lockdowns, this is a time of great opportunity. Think outside the box and collaborate with open minds to share, learn, and ideate together for a better tomorrow at MKW.
FEATURED EVENTS
5 Kulin nations sovereign knowledge
For the opening night of MKW, knowledge-holders from the five Kulin nations will come together for a conversation about what sovereignty means to them. Aboriginal knowledge spans millennia, and the enduring relevance and strength of this knowledge have the power to create lasting, positive change in Australia. In this conversation facilitated by Rueben Berg, elders and senior members of the five Kulin Nations will discuss what’s possible when the sovereignty of Aboriginal Knowledge is respected. Mon 26 April, 6–7pm, Meat Market Hub: auditorium and Digital Hub, 3 Blackwood St, North Melbourne – register here.
Pandemic-proofing the future
Australia’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been one of the strongest and most effective in the world. And yet, there are still plenty of lessons to be learned. The Doherty Institute was the first in the world outside of China to grow the COVID-19 virus in a lab and share it with laboratories in Australia and around the world. In this live panel discussion, the world-leading science, clinical and public health experts from the Doherty Institute will take a deep dive into Australia’s COVID-19 response. Mon 26 April, 12.30–1.30pm, Sign up for event details here.
Through the eyes of an engineer
Melbourne is a city known for its engineering excellence. This fascinating tour will explore a number of its most impressive spots including Federation Square, Flinders Street Station, Metro Tunnel and the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), demonstrating a variety of techniques, processes and innovations to paint a vivid picture of engineering evolution. Along the way, expert commentary will showcase the vital role engineering plays in creating vibrant, sustainable and resilient cities. Mon 26 April to Sun 2 May, various times, Bourke Street Mall – register here.
Mapping our future knowledge landscape
As the knowledge capital of Australia, Melbourne nurtures creators, thinkers and innovators, and encourages its citizens to explore ideas and collaborate. It’s vibrant knowledge sector is filled to the brim with infrastructure and facilities that support innovation – from libraries and laboratories to manufacturing facilities and design studios. Explore and contribute to an evolving illustrated map of Melbourne’s future knowledge landscape. Viewable during all hub hours, Meat Market Hub, 3 Blackwood St, North Melbourne VIC 3051 – register here.
Past patents, future inventions
Take a deep dive into the vast and incredibly fascinating collection of patents held at State Library Victoria. Experts in historical patents and patent law will join with inventors and innovators to explore some of Melbourne’s most interesting inventions. They’ll illuminate the ins and outs of invention, from the light-bulb moment, all the way through to finishing off, patenting and even commercialisation. From historical patents dating back as far as 1854 to the future inventions on the horizon, this talk will inspire attendees and share crucial information on how to get started in a journey of invention. Thu 29 April, 5.30pm – 7pm, State Library Victoria Hub: Start Space and Digital Hub, Ideas Quarter, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000 – register here.
