Raising the Bar Adelaide returns for its ninth year

20 talks. 10 venues. 1 unforgettable night.

What do movie stars, moon missions, dementia, artificial intelligence and climate change have in common? They're all part of this year's Raising the Bar Adelaide, returning to the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters on Tuesday 4 August.

For one night only, ten local hotels and bars will become classrooms, bringing together some of Australia's brightest academics, researchers and thought leaders to share big ideas in relaxed, social settings.

Whether you're passionate about science, health, technology, the environment, leadership or popular culture, there's a talk guaranteed to spark your curiosity.

As the only city in South Australia licensed to host Raising the Bar, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters continues to deliver this globally recognised event, making knowledge accessible, engaging and enjoyable for everyone.

This year's program features twenty free talks across ten venues, giving audiences the chance to explore cutting-edge research, hear remarkable stories and discover fresh perspectives—all over a drink at their local pub.

Here's a taste of what's on offer:

Where have all the movie stars gone?
Film academic Ben McCann explores how streaming services, blockbuster franchises and social media have transformed celebrity culture and asks whether the traditional movie star has disappeared forever.

How do you build a city on the moon?
Space architect Albert Rajkumar takes audiences beyond science fiction to reveal how technologies being developed for future lunar habitats could revolutionise construction, robotics and collaboration here on Earth.

Brain health — Can you prevent dementia?
With dementia affecting more Australians than ever before, this thought-provoking session explores the latest research into brain health and the practical steps we can take to support healthy ageing.

Shut up (I'm) AI's talking!
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we live and work at an extraordinary pace. This engaging talk unpacks what AI means for our future, the opportunities it presents and the challenges we need to consider.

Extreme weather events
As communities experience more frequent and severe weather, this timely presentation examines the science behind extreme weather and what a changing climate means for South Australia and beyond.

Alongside these sessions, audiences can discover talks on crime, menopause, relationships, ageing well, leadership, healthcare in space, climate action and much more.

Since launching in 2018, Raising the Bar Adelaide has welcomed thousands of attendees and become one of the City's signature annual events.

Its unique format encourages lifelong learning while supporting local businesses, bringing hundreds of people into hotels and venues across the City for an evening of conversation, connection and discovery.

Whether you're returning for another year or experiencing Raising the Bar for the first time, you'll leave with fresh ideas, new perspectives and plenty to talk about long after the night ends.

Raising the Bar Adelaide
Tuesday 4 August
20 Talks. 10 Venues. 1 Night.
Free, bookings essential.

View the full program and secure your place today, Raising the Bar Adelaide