AJBCC Future Leaders recently gathered for their first Speaker Series in Perth, with Melanie Brock AM on 27 April 2026.
In a relaxed restaurant setting in the Perth CBD fit for a fireside chat, the conversation with Melanie felt both personal and practical, with reflections on a career built across the Australia–Japan corridor.
Melanie’s career journey is one shaped by deep commitment to the bilateral relationship. Her anecdotes of “Vegemite diplomacy” (which involved memorable connections to Minister Koizumi) and her current roles as a non-executive director with major Japanese corporations, reflect the power of relationships built over time; not overnight and not only in boardrooms, but through everyday interactions that build trust across cultures. This balance was highlighted as a key factor in sustaining meaningful connections across markets.
Language capability and cultural intelligence were discussed as important enablers, not just as technical skills but as ways to deepen engagement, naturally linking to career development. The conversation encouraged future leaders to take ownership of their career pathways and actively consider where they can contribute within the Australia–Japan relationship, especially in sectors including energy, supply chains, defence and real estate. As these areas grow, staying connected and investing in relationships remains key. Melanie was candid about the need for Australia to better understand the international context of the Australia-Japan relationship, cautioning against complacency on the Australian side.
The conversation also touched on the broader Australia–Japan dynamic, including the importance of developing the next generation of talent, strengthening people-to-people links, and maintaining an outward-looking, globally aware perspective. Future Leaders have a great opportunity to draw on their experiences to make change.
Sincere thanks are extended to Ashurst for their generous support in hosting the session, and to Natsuko Ogawa for joining as an observing guest.