The ACCESS Network of the Australian Institute of International Affairs Victoria (AIIAV) invites you to a discussion of this contentious issue. In the wake of the 2011 Independent Aid Review, the first of its kind ever conducted in Australia, ACCESS has found it fitting to conduct a debate to address what is the most effective and efficient means to assisting the developing world achieve inclusive and sustainable development.  The ‘Aid vs. Trade’ debate will centre on a discussion of alternative approaches to development, that is, community based development driven by the non-government sector versus economic development including foreign direct investment and infrastructure, as championed by the corporate sector.  This debate will also consider how Australia, as a nation, may best assist in this multifaceted development process.

Moderated by Rev. Tim Costello AO

Rev. Costello is CEO of World Vision Australia.  He is the 2008 winner of the Australian Peace Prize, awarded by the Peace Organisation of Australia, and is listed as a ‘National Living Treasure’ by the National Trust.

In favour of Foreign Aid:

Ms Joanna Hayter

Ms Hayter is CEO of the International Women’s Development Agency (IWDA).  Previously, she was the Country Director for Save the Children UK in Vietnam as well as the African Regional Director for the Overseas Service Bureau.

Dr Julia Newton-Howes

Dr Newton-Howes is the CEO of CARE Australia and a member of the Executive Committee and Board of CARE International. Prior to joining CARE, Julia was an Assistant Director General with AusAID. She is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Australian Council for Overseas Aid (ACFID).

 In favour of Trade:

 Mr Andrew MacLeod

Mr MacLeod is CEO of the Committee for Melbourne, Foundation Chair of the United Nations Global Compact Principles for Social Investment and a member of the United Nations Expert Group on Responsible Business and Investment in high-risk areas.

 Dr Tom Davis

Dr Davis lectures in Public Policy at the University of Melbourne. He has worked for the Refugee Review Tribunal and the Department of Immigration. His research interests include foreign aid, World Bank Multi Donor Trust Funds and Australia’s aid relationship with Asia and the Pacific.