Welcome to La Trobe University’s Clever Conversations.

This episode, from our Bold Thinking Series, explores the future of regional cities in the face of social, economic and environmental changes.

In this hour, you’ll hear the diverse and frank views of four speakers debating what it takes to keep Australia’s regional centres strong as politicians grapple with climate change, social challenges and city-centric policy making.

Farm innovator and Victorian Farmers Federation representative, Emma Germano, defends farmers’ right to grow cotton or any crops they want despite public criticism over water use.

She’s joined by agriculture policy expert, turned consumer watchdog Mick Keogh who weighs in on the perennial topic of interstate water policy.

La Trobe’s planning expert Dr Julie Rudner explains how universities play a crucial role in assisting inland cities to become globally connected.

While Mildura business leader and community advocate Ross Lake brings his own local perspective to the discussion.

This panel conversation is facilitated by author Jack Marx.