On 15 September 2010 BCA President Graham Bradley to the National Press Club titled ‘Common Ground: Seizing the Opportunity’, in which he discussed five priorities for the new federal government.

Let me begin by thanking the National Press Club and the National Australia Bank that supports this important forum for policy debate.

I’ve spoken here once before. As it happened, my address that day coincided with Julia Gillard being sworn in as Prime Minister first time round, so there were rather fewer of you in the room on that occasion.

My main message today is, as it was then, that Australians are ready for a new style of leadership. I think we all sense this.

People are looking for the kind of leadership that has its sights firmly set on the national interest and that goes about the job of keeping our economy strong in a determined, business-like way.

They are also looking for leadership that reflects the values of the Australian people in being socially and environmentally responsible.

Common Ground: Seizing the Opportunity: Speech by BCA President Graham Bradley to the National Press Club