TONY BLAIR, British Prime Minister 1997-2007, will make his first speaking appearance in Australasia since leaving office in July 2011, sharing his unique insights and experiences in leadership, negotiation and innovation.

In an exclusive speaking tour presented by Anthony Pratt and Visy, Tony Blair will visit 5 cities over 3 days: Sydney, Auckland, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth.

Tony Blair, the politician who defines our times is one of the most engaging, respected and in demand speakers of his generation. In addition to his experience in office and his influence on world politics, Mr Blair continues to play a leadership role on issues such as faith and globalization, the Middle East peace process, Africa governance and climate change.

In his role as the Quartet Representative for the USA, Russia, UN and EU he helps facilitate the Middle East peace process. Through the work of his Faith Foundation and his Africa Governance Initiative, Tony Blair has a unique insight into the challenges of faith and globalization in the post-financial crisis environment, as the pillars of leadership critical to success today.

According to Anthony Pratt, Chairman and CEO of Visy, Tony Blair’s visit will be a unique opportunity to hear from one of the world’s most admired leaders. “I first met Tony Blair in 2006 and we share a common interest in finding solutions to the challenges of climate change that bring business, Government, and the environmental community together. I also admire the role he is playing as an international statesman. So I’m delighted that Australian audiences will be able to hear from him in person.”

Mr Blair’s memoir, “A Journey: My Political Life” was released in September 2010 and made the New York Times Best-seller List within a week of its release.