Speakers
Dr Anthony Chesman
Dr Anthony Chesman
Just as families are coming to terms with artificial intelligence, the next revolution is already taking shape in Australia's laboratories. Quantum technologies, which harness the strange behaviour of matter at its smallest scales, promise to transform how we sense the world, secure our communications and solve problems no computer today can touch. Dr Anthony Chesman, Research Director of CSIRO's Devices and Engineered Systems Program and leader of its Quantum Technologies Program, closes the Summit with a view from the frontier: what quantum will make possible, how soon, and why Australia is positioned to lead. For families who think in generations, it is a chance to look past the next market cycle to the world their grandchildren will inherit, and to ask what role their capital and curiosity might play in shaping it.
Dr. Anthony Chesman is the Research Director of the Devices and Engineered Systems Program in CSIRO Technology and its Quantum Technologies Program Leader.
Following the completion of a PhD in magnetochemistry and crystallography at Monash University, Dr Chesman joined CSIRO as a Postdoctoral Fellow in nanomaterials and solar cell research. Dr Chesman has held several leadership roles overseeing the development of technologies spanning renewable energy (batteries and flexible solar cells), nanomaterials, and device prototyping. In addition to his leadership responsibilities, as a Principal Research Scientist Dr Chesman is contributing to the development of nitrogen vacancy diamond (NVD)-based quantum sensors for chemical analysis, with a focus on environmental and health applications.
The Quantum Technologies Program is translating lab discoveries into practical quantum devices that deliver impact in sectors of national importance. This Program is focussed on quantum sensing, quantum-secure communication, and software and algorithms for quantum computers, which are key pillars of Australia’s national quantum strategy.
Carly Severino is a strategic philanthropic leader known for combining visionary thinking with practical execution to drive meaningful, sustainable social impact. With deep expertise in philanthropy, intergenerational wealth, social investment and community building, she has led transformative programs across Australia’s most respected organisations. As Director of Community and Philanthropy at Australian Communities Foundation, Carly oversees three national teams and plays a critical role on the Senior Executive, strengthening relationships with more than 700 Funds and Foundations, elevating best‑practice philanthropy, and modernising the Foundation’s approach to education, engagement and storytelling.
Carly previously served as Executive Officer of the Betty Amsden Foundation. Prior to this, she spent seven years with the Private Wealth Network, working closely with families of significant wealth to deepen impact and support next‑generation engagement. Carly is a respected facilitator, speaker and advisor within the philanthropic and family wealth ecosystems. She holds a Masters in Social Investment and Philanthropy from Swinburne University.