Downing Public Lecture Series

Distinguished visiting economists are invited to present at the Downing Lecture for the purpose of promoting analysis and discussion of economic and social research policy. These lectures have been made possible by a generous fellowship that was established by friends and colleagues of the late Professor Richard Downing (BA (Hons) 1936), in memory of his life and work.

Richard Ivan Downing was Ritchie Professor of Research and Economics in the University from 1952 until his death in 1975. Not only did Professor Downing make significant contributions to economic research in this position, he also put much effort into guiding and fostering the research interests of students and staff. For twenty years he edited The Economic Record. He also played a prominent part in founding the now Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research. Professor Downing was appointed the Ritchie Professor of Economic Research in 1954.

His contributions to the academic life of the University were not restricted to the Faculty of Business and Economics. He served as assistant Vice-Chancellor from 1969 to 1974 and as Chairman of Ormond College Council. Outside the University, Professor Downing was on the board of a number of bodies concerned with the arts and, from July 1973, was Chairman of the Australian Broadcasting Commission.