Presidential Addresses

Data for Good – outlines how actuaries can make a difference by finding equitable, ethical solutions to the impacts of climate change, intergenerational equity, funding for disability and the role of AI. Video also available.

The Actuarial Brain — How thinking actuarially influences outcomes on topics like STEM in education, and why actuaries should take the opportunity to bring an actuarial mindset to government.

Fearless Actuaries — Why now is our time as actuaries. Annette outlines what we need to do to seize the opportunity to help business, government and society do the most difficult thing for humans  – to deal with facts. It’s necessary for us to safeguard and protect society. Video also available.

Expanding our Frontier — On the effects of the pandemic. “I heard it said that you should never let a good crisis go to waste. It is crucial at this junction that we find more assertive ways to promote the role of actuary to a broader audience.” Video also available.

Picking up the Torch — An explicit focus on driving our global strategy and strengthening international partnerships. On the international scene, our Institute punches above its weight and is a sought-after partner. Video also available.

Gender Diversity in Actuaries — The Good, the Ugly, the Good and the Bad. Nicolette focuses on ways to increase the percentage of females becoming actuaries, starting from the education pipeline and continuing on to become Fellows and leaders in the Institute and beyond. Video also available.

Globalisation of the Profession — Threats and opportunities. John forecasts how the Institute can best position to excel through the globalisation of the profession and community over the next five years, navigating the challenges while growing to meet the demands of new roles in the workplace and the management of conduct risk. 

Strength in Diversity — Leveraging younger actuaries and international connections. From her human resources background, Jenny aims to involve younger actuaries through the Young Actuaries Conference, and global engagement to harness the skills and cultural insights of the Institute’s significant Asian membership. Video also available.

Sustainability, Relevance, and the Place of the Profession — With a wide-ranging agenda for the year, Lindsay explains the importance of maintaining the quality and relevance of Institute services, emphasising closer engagement of leadership to all levels of membership and increasing transparency. Video also available.

Building on the 2014 Reviews — The changing profile of members, both demographically and professionally, affects the future of the Institute. Mission and Governance reviews have laid out an effective "roadmap" to better serve the membership, particularly in branching into newer industries, like data science and banking. Video also available.

Staying Relevant, Building Community — Daniel addresses the importance of member involvement in decisions and feedback processes and articulates a vision for the Council to enhance the profession's status across emerging sectors, and effectively meet members' needs. Video also available.

The Future of the Profession — This year, the Council will concentrate on refining education and training for actuaries to stay relevant in today's business environment and repositioning the profession to emphasise the value of actuaries' insights, aiming for wider recognition and increased demand.

The Actuary for the 21st Century — The actuarial profession faces challenges like shrinking markets and a skills gap in the upcoming decades. To stay relevant, actuaries must broaden their skills, venturing beyond traditional roles into areas such as soft skills and enterprise risk management, using initiatives like the CERA qualification.

Professionalism as Loyalty to the Public — In the wake of the GFC, Barry addresses the core values of the profession, emphasising the importance of ethical practices and open communication, aspiring to maintain public trust and navigate future challenges with unwavering commitment to societal well-being.

Relevance, Change and Value — There is a critical need for the actuarial profession to adapt to significant changes and challenges. The Institute’s Initiatives will broaden our appeal and relevance, introducing an Associate level "Actuary" designation, expanding education into new fields, and enhancing CPD opportunities.

Colliding with the Future — In the midst of the GFC, Trevor urges actuaries to embrace ethics, continuous learning, and global awareness. To remain relevant, they must adapt quickly to change, focusing on innovative solutions rather than cautious reactions.

What is an Actuary? — Greg’s address underscores the importance of defining the actuarial profession's identity, and value, and building relevant standards for education and professional development in a changing global landscape.

Realising the Vision: Actuaries, Strategy and Risk — In Fred’s words, “If we really want to change the future, as actuaries or as individuals, we must strive to see it as clearly as we can: and then we must act, in the face of many uncertainties.” Fred addresses upcoming changes from the Communications Taskforce recommendations, particularly young leadership development.

The Evolution of the Profession — At a crossroads, Martin emphasises the importance of sustaining leadership in traditional areas while expanding into new fields, and enhancing professional standards through increased accountability, transparency, and a deeper commitment to public service.

Leadership: The Courage to Commit — "If we are to match our contribution to our inherent capabilities, then a wide lens and a belief in possibilities is essential." Andrew urges members to expand their thinking about themselves, their careers and future possibilities for the actuarial profession.

The Actuarial Profession — Making a Difference — Explores the opportunities for developing the immense potential of the profession, and the match between that potential and the challenges facing Australia and the Asia Pacific region.