Our Bipartisan series places a gentle spotlight on how couples, friends and partners nourish both their creativity and their relationship. Join Virginia Haussegger and Mark Kenny as they reveal how work, creative output, family, politics and friendship work for them.

Canberra Writers Festival chair, author and close friend of the Haussegger-Kennys Allan Behm will shine a gentle spotlight on one of Canberra’s power couples in a conversation where we'll learn what’s best combined, best kept separate and what’s the secret?

Tickets: $15 (includes a complimentary glass of Canberra region wine or a soft drink on arrival)

SOLD OUT

Participant Bios

Allan Behm is Chair of the Canberra Writers Festival, a position which follows a distinguished public service career, where was Chief of Staff to Greg Combet, Minister for Defence Materiel, Climate Change and Industry in the Rudd and Gillard governments. He publishes frequently, and is a highly respected media commentator. His book No, Minister – an insider’s account of the what happens in Parliament House – was well reviewed, and remains a “go to” text for those interested in leadership, policy development and reform. 

Virginia Haussegger AM is a passionate women’s advocate and communication specialist. Virginia has reported from around the globe for leading current affair programs on Channel 9, the Seven Network and the ABC. For the past 15 years she anchored the ABC’s flagship TV News in Canberra. In late 2016 Virginia was appointed to head a new gender equality initiative, the 50/50 by 2030 Foundation, at the University of Canberra’s Institute for Governance and Policy Analysis, where she is an Adjunct Professor.

Mark Kenny is Chief Political Correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. A seasoned observer of national politics, he has reported from Canberra for more than a decade. Prior to joining Fairfax Media, he worked for the ABC and spent seven years as The Advertiser's national political editor. A director of the National Press Club, Kenny is a sought after political commentator on radio and television programs across the country.