Hugh Mackay is a social researcher and bestselling author of 19 books, including The Good Life, The Art of Belonging and his latest, Australia Reimagined. He has had a 60-year career in social research. He is currently a patron of the Asylum Seekers Centre. In recognition of his pioneering work in social research, Hugh has been elected a Fellow of the Australian Psychological Society and awarded honorary doctorates by Charles Sturt, Macquarie, NSW, Western Sydney and Wollongong universities. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2015.
Michael Veitch is a multi-talented writer, performer and presenter. He has an academic background in history but made his name as part of the ABC’s cult hit The D-Generation, followed by Fast Forward, Full Frontal and more. For five years he was the face of ABC television’s national weekly arts program, Sunday Arts, followed by a three year stint on ABC Radio, broadcasting across Tasmania and Victoria.