IABC Victoria is delighted to present its fifth annual Deb Ganderton Oration on 26 November 2026 in Melbourne’s CBD. This evening is a highlight of IABC Victoria’s event calendar, celebrating communicators and leaders who have a passion for speaking up, changing lives and sharing great stories with the world.
It will feature an oration by Dr Gillian Miles AM, whose extensive public sector leadership experience spans national, state and local governments. Gill is renowned for robust policy, business and organisation reforms in transport-based organisations as the CEO, National Transport Commission, the Head of Transport Victoria and numerous deputy secretary roles in transport and community development. In 2026 Gill was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in recognition of her outstanding service to transport and infrastructure.
The Oration commemorates Deb Ganderton, a former President of IABC Victoria, an inspiring industry leader and advocate for elevating the communications profession. Deb understood the importance of strategic communications with a career that took her from communications roles to CEO. Deb passed away in 2022.
This will also be an opportunity for IABC Victoria’s community to gather for the final time in 2026 and celebrate Victoria’s Bronze Quill winners.
Event details
🗓️ Thursday 26 November 2026
⌚️ 6pm to 9pm
📍 Melbourne CBD
🎟️ IABC Victoria members: free (enter your email address that you use for your IABC membership as the promotion code); members bring a guest for $65 plus booking fee
🎟️ Non-members: Single – $85; Bring a Colleague – 2 tickets for $150; Bring the Team – 3 tickets for $210 (prices exclude booking fee)
Orator: Dr Gillian Miles AM
Dr Gillian Miles AM connects the unconnected by supporting executive teams to drive new business approaches, build capability and reinvigorate organisations. Gill is known for her expertise in systems thinking that delivers innovative solutions that make an impact. With an extensive background in the public sector Gill has advised Australian governments and led organisations in national, state and local governments.
Gill has led policy, business and organisation reforms in numerous transport-based organisations as the CEO, National Transport Commission, the Head of Transport Victoria and numerous deputy secretary roles in transport and community development. Gill has a personal commitment to supporting young people by mentoring and delivering leadership programs.
Gill was appointed ARISO (Australian Rail Industry Standards Organisation) Board Chair in November 2024. Her other engagements include being Commissioner at Infrastructure Australia, Director National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and the Chair Chisholm TAFE Victoria.
About the Deb Ganderton Oration
The IABC Victoria Deb Ganderton Oration is an annual event founded in 2022 honouring the legacy of Deb Ganderton, a respected leader in public communication, former CEO and former President of IABC Victoria.
Known for her commitment to excellence and integrity, Deb's work inspired many in the communications field. This oration brings together leaders to explore the vital role of communication in leadership, fostering unity, authenticity, and positive social impact.
Whether you knew Deb or not, this event is open to everyone. Come along on your own or as part of a group - we look forward to welcoming you.