Join Sean Kelly in conversation for the Perth launch of Quarterly Essay 100.

Sean Kelly is the author of this seminal centenary issue of Australia’s leading long form intellectual publication. In the book, he looks at the current state of national politics with a focus on the Albanese Government since their re-election in May 2025. He canvasses issues such as their depth of support, demographic shifts and voting patterns, leadership style, policy agendas, and a changing geopolitical world. It promises to be an evening of good humour, insight and optimism despite Australia’s challenges.

Hosted by Robert Wood and the Centre for Stories.

About Sean Kelly

A former Prime Ministerial adviser, Sean is a leading voice on progressive politics with a focus on strategy, messaging and ideology. As a regular guest on ABC Insiders and a Columnist for the Fairfax papers, including WA Today, Sean’s expertise and insight will inform the audience about politics right now.

About Robert Wood

Dr Robert Wood is the Creative Director of Centre for Stories, a not-for-profit, community-led literary arts and cultural organisation based in Boorloo (Perth), Western Australia.

Born and raised in Perth, Robert holds two bachelor degrees with honors from ANU, a masters from the Ivy League University of Pennsylvania, a doctorate from UWA, and an altMBA from Akimbo. He is the author of five books and four hundred articles in literary journals in Australia, the United States and Asia. Robert has presented at Cambridge, Berkeley, Peking and other universities. His creative work has been translated into seven languages.