2025 Joseph Fisher Public Lecture

About the Fisher Public Lecture

Now in its second century, the Fisher Public Lecture is a prestigious annual event on economic and public policy, hosted by the School of Economics and Public Policy at the University of Adelaide.

Since 1904, the series has featured Prime Ministers, Nobel Laureates, and leading economists, including more than a dozen listed in Who’s Who in Economics.

This Year’s Speaker: Senator Barbara Pocock

We are proud to welcome Senator Barbara Pocock, economist, Emeritus Professor, and South Australian Senator, as the 2025 Fisher Lecturer.

Senator Pocock is a distinguished alumna of the University of Adelaide. She began her studies in economics in 1975 and graduated with a Bachelor of Economics (First Class Honours) in 1978, where she later completed her PhD at the University of Adelaide in 1997.

Senator Pocock has long been a leading advocate for social justice, sustainability, and equity. With a strong voice in national debates on work, care, and inequality, she has played a pivotal role in shaping public policy across housing, employment, workplace relations, and the public sector.

Lecture Overview

"Economics, Ethics and Power: How Can Economics Help Us Navigate the Challenges of Our Times?"

As public trust in politics and institutions becomes increasingly vital, how can economics serve as a force for ethical leadership and meaningful change?

Drawing on her background as an economist (B.Ec Hons, University of Adelaide) and, most recently, her experience as a Senator for South Australia, Barbara Pocock will examine the complex intersections of power, policy, and principle in contemporary Australia. She will reflect on her recent parliamentary work—from scrutinising major accounting firms to grappling with the pressing challenges of work, taxation, housing, and inequality.

This lecture also honours the legacy of Joseph Fisher (1834–1907), in whose name the event is held. Fisher was a respected figure in South Australian public life, known for his integrity, public service, and plain speaking. While frequently consulted for his advice, he was seen as a principled man who did not act in self-interest. A supporter of liberal markets and small government, how might he view the current state of Australian parliaments, policies, and economic discourse?

In this lecture, Senator Pocock will consider enduring questions of ethics, power, and responsibility, drawing on her unique vantage point at the intersection of economics and political life.

The event starts from 5:30pm. Please arrive between 5:15 and 5:25 PM to be seated before the event begins.