SoCLA National Conference | 6-8 May 2026

Bernard Salt AM

Bernard Salt is widely regarded as one of Australia's leading social commentators. He has written six popular best-selling books, hosted a TV show on SkyNEWS Business called 'The Next Five Years' and hosted a top-rated podcast called 'What Happens Next'. Bernard is also one of Australia's most in-demand corporate speakers. After a 20-year career as a Partner in a global advisory firm, Bernard founded The Demographics Group to provide advice to business on demographic, social and property trends. He is best known for identifying new social behaviours including 'the goat's cheese curtain'. Bernard has been a columnist with The Australian newspaper for more than 20 years. Bernard was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the 2017 Australia Day honours for his services to the Australian people via demography. And finally, Bernard is the person responsible for popularising the phrase 'smashed avocado' globally!

conference speakers

Bernard Salt AM

Douglas Jones AO

Dr Sean Brady

Jane Hider

Monique Carroll

Penny Bond

Speaker 7

Speaker 8