Kate Torney OAM is Director of the Constructive Institute Asia Pacific in the Faculty of Arts at Monash University. Kate is a Professor of Practice in the School of Media, Film and Journalism and, through the Constructive Institute, spearheads Monash University’s ambition to counter misinformation and disinformation.

Previously, Kate was CEO of the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, supporting the work of some of the world’s leading cancer researchers. 

Prior to this, she was Chief Executive of the State Library of Victoria for six years, leading an $88 million redevelopment to reimagine services and stunning heritage spaces for the 21st century, in what is now one of the most visited libraries in the world.  

A seasoned journalist, Kate spent more than 20 years at the ABC, including six as News Director leading a team of 1500 reporters and production colleagues across Australia and globally. She also oversaw the major review that led to the ABC’s successful re-orientation towards digital platforms, including the launch of the ABC News channel and the expansion of ABC News digital services.

Kate is Chair of The Wheeler Centre for Books Writing and Ideas, and is a board member of The Conversation.