Former Victorian Leader of the Opposition

The 23-year political career of the Hon Jeff Kennett can be defined by powerful change. The Opposition Leader instigated a multitude of improvements earning Victoria the reputation of Australia’s most reformist government including reduction of the State’s debt, and reinstatement of their AAA credit rating. In his government’s first term Mr Kennett served as both Premier and Minister for Housing, Immigration & Ethnic Affairs. On his resignation in 1999 Mr Kennett turned to a corporate career in which he currently holds several executive positions, as well as President of the Hawthorn Football Club.

Graduating third in his class in Officer Training, Kennett’s military career included a position as Second Lieutenant, acting as commander of the 1st Platoon, A Company, 1st Battalion, and the Royal Australian Regiment. Upon leaving the military, he started his own successful marketing company before being elected to government office in 1976. For over 23 years, Jeff Kennett has been a proud member of the Victorian Parliament, holding the position of Premier of the State from 1992 to 1999. After two terms in this position, Kennett left politics, working with several charities and acting as chairman for a number of companies.

Throughout his career, Kennett has held the position of chairman for the Board of Management of PFD Food Services PTY LTD., Open Windows Australia Proprietary Limited, CT Management Group PTY Ltd., and the depression initiative, Beyond Blue. He has also acted as the Director of Equity Trustees Limited and Jumbuck Entertainment Limited, and was the President of the Hawthorn Football Club from 2005 to 2011. For his work in politics, for his community, and for his country, he was awarded the highest civilian honour, Companion of the Order of Australia, in 2005 as well as an honorary doctorate by the University of Ballarat.

Although no longer in politics, Kennett is still loved by supporters across the country, and is often described as visionary. With a deep-seeded respect for his country and its people, Kennett is both passionate and well-spoken. In March 2013, he was announced as Seven's new national political commentator.

Presentation Topics Include

• Politics
  
• Business
  
• Philanthropy

Testimonials

“Captivated the audience and communicated his message on leadership extremely well".
John Danks & Son Pty Ltd

“A wonderful and engaging speaker, Mr Kennett speaks with passion and warmth. Excellent"
ProVision Eyecare Pty Ltd

“Thank you from the team at CRT for joining us at the recent National Conference in Perth. Your presentation inspired much debate and interest amongst our delegates. Our delegates gave you very high marks in our post-Conference survey and we very much appreciate your contribution to the success of our Conference."
Combined Rural Traders Pty Ltd

“Jeff was sensational in his delivery of the Keynote address.  Delegates were very excited at the prospect of hearing Jeff speak, particularly in such challenging times.  He was visionary, urbane, spoke superbly on topic and was a pleasure to work with".
Fran Kerlin,City of Melbourne

Mr Kennett’s presentation received the most impressive ratings ever by our delegates
Leagues Clubs Australia Ltd