Con Livissianis launches groundbreaking book “Innovate or Disintegrate” at prestigious AIB event

• BY India News Newsdesk
• July 21, 2025
• 0 COMMENTS

Australia India Business Pty Ltd (AIB) hosted an extraordinary event that brought together thought leaders, government officials, industry pioneers, and education leaders to celebrate the official launch of “Innovate or Disintegrate” — the latest book by Con Livissianis, Co-Founder and Chair of the AIB Board.

Held in Brisbane, the event marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing collaboration between Australia and India, particularly in the fields of education, innovation, agriculture, environment, sport, and healthcare. Con Livissianis, who brings over 50 years of management experience across major organisations, unveiled his timely book urging leaders and industries to embrace innovation in the face of rapid technological disruption. His work highlights critical trends in AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation, reinforcing the importance of proactive adaptation to global shifts.

Event highlights

• The event began with a comprehensive presentation by Con Livissianis, where he also launched the Apprenticeship Exchange Program, a tri-nation initiative in collaboration with TAFE Queenslandand the Trade Promotion Council of India (TPCI). The announcement of five Centres of Excellence — in Education, Agriculture, Sports (Olympics 2036), Environment, and Healthcare — was met with widespread acclaim.
• The audience was then treated to expert insights from Kim Russellon Agri-Tech and Soil Improvement, and from Councillor Vicki Howard, who spoke on behalf of Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner.
• A lively and insightful panel discussionfollowed, featuring prominent voices including Paget Hargreaves (Queensland Semiconductor Initiative), Preethi Suraj (Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland), John Buchanan (former Australian Men’s Cricket Head Coach), and Viv Grayson (TAFE Queensland).
• A number of dignitaries delivered addresses throughout the program, including:
  • His Excellency Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India to Australia
  • Hon Shayne Neumann MP
  • Senator Paul Scarr
  • Ms Ridhi Verma, Resident Director of TPCI
  • Hon Andrew Powell MP, on behalf of Premier Hon David Crisafulli MP

The event culminated with the official launch of the book “Innovate or Disintegrate”, drawing an enthusiastic response from guests who praised the book’s relevance in today’s ever-changing global landscape.

In his closing remarks, Jim Varghese AM, Director of AIB, acknowledged the presence of federal and state representatives, business leaders, and community champions. Special mention was given to Ms Ridhi Verma (TPCI) and Professor Michael Drew (Jobs Queensland), among others.

With the presentation of the AIB leadership team and advisory members — including Jim and Sylvana Livissianis, Manu Hingorani, Kim Russell, and Nik Senapati — the event concluded on a high note, celebrating the strong foundation being laid for future Australia–India partnerships.