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SPEAKER DETAILS
Andrew Barr MLA, Chief Minister, ACT Government
 
Andrew Barr is the 7th Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory, serving since 2014, and is the Member for Kurrajong. Andrew was born in Lismore, NSW, in 1973. He moved to Canberra in 1977. He studied political science, economics and economic history at the Australian National University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Policy Studies). After graduating in 1995, he worked for the Federal and Territory politicians, before embarking on a career change to the private sector in 1999 as a media analyst and account manager. He has served in the ACT Legislative Assembly since 2006. As Treasurer and Chief Minister, Andrew has focused on the ACT's economic development, particularly encouraging private sector investment in higher education, trade, tourism, major events, arts and sport. Consequently, the ACT economy and employment has diversified away from its traditional public sector base. He initiated international flights from Canberra direct and implemented the light rail strategy. Under its Climate Change Strategy, the ACT Government has a target of reducing emissions by 50–60% (from 1990 levels) by 2025 and net zero emissions by 2045. Andrew was also a prominent advocate for the Yes campaign in the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey and the recent Referendum for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. On both occasions the ACT has yielded the highest YES vote across the nation.
Greg Harford, Chief Executive Officer, Canberra Business Chamber
Greg Harford is the Chief Executive of the Canberra Business Chamber and a commentator on business issues. Greg is passionate about the importance of business in helping communities thrive and prosper. He was previously the Chief Executive of Retail NZ, the peak body for New Zealand's retail sector; and ran Going Digital, the highly successful program to transition New Zealand to digital television. He is experienced in international relations, corporate affairs, strategy, advocacy, communications, marketing, policy, governance and risk management.
Genevieve Jacobs AM, Chief Executive Officer, Hands Across Canberra
Genevieve Jacobs has been a journalist for 30 years, working in print and radio. Her career began with rural newspapers on the South West Slopes, she has freelanced for national magazines and spent a decade with ABC Radio Canberra. She sits on the Cultural Facilities Corporation board and chairs the Canberra International Music Festival. She is also a director of the Conflict Resolution Service. Genevieve was the inaugural chair of the arts minister's Creative Council, and inaugural co-chair of the Reconciliation Council. In 2021, Genevieve was made a Member in the Order of Australia (AM) for her services to broadcasting and the community. Genevieve has an enduring interest in building community, and creating discussions that include us all. And she still loves nothing better than a good yarn.
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