Former Australian Prime Minister and current Beyond Blue Chair Julia Gillard will be the special guest and keynote speaker at the annual AO Inspirational Series. 

Tennis Australia Chair Jayne Hrdlicka and AO Tournament Director Craig Tiley will host the intimate brunch for 80 guests on women's semi-final day on Thursday February 18.
 
The AO Inspirational Series has a reputation for attracting distinguished high-profile international guest speakers, including trailblazer Billie Jean King, publishing and fashion icon Anna Wintour and most recently, Hollywood star and outspoken equality advocate Rebel Wilson.
“I look forward to speaking at the Australian Open about mental health, women in leadership and ways we can build a post-COVID society that supports everyone’s mental health and wellbeing,” Julia Gillard said.
“Beyond Blue is a proud community partner of Tennis Australia and recognises the important role sport plays in building communities and maintaining our wellbeing.”
This will be the fifth edition of the AO Inspirational Series, the brainchild of Craig Tiley, a passionate advocate for gender equality and a founding member of the Male Champions of Change. It has quickly become one of the most anticipated events during the tournament.
 
“I’m delighted to welcome former Prime Minister Julia Gillard to the AO Inspirational Series,” Craig Tiley said.
 
“Following a year that has been so challenging for so many, resilience and a focus on mental health and wellbeing has never been so important.”
 
Tennis Australia will also launch a new Gender Equality Taskforce, chaired by sports law specialist and former Vice President of Tennis Queensland Paula Robinson.
 
“I’m also looking forward to launching the Gender Equality Taskforce which will determine new ways to improve access and opportunities for girls and women in our sport,” Tiley continued.
 
The AO Inspirational Series is also the curtain raiser to a blockbuster day of women’s tennis. Four of the world’s top female players will fight for a berth in the Australian Open finals, with semi-final action commencing at Rod Laver Arena from 2.00pm.
 
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Australian Open 2021, supported by major partner Kia Motors in association with Emirates, Luzhou Laojiao and Rolex, will take place at Melbourne Park from 8-21 February. Visit ausopen.com for more information.