7:30am - 9:00am (The Shine Dome, Acton)

Leaders Breakfast: Designing Regional Economies for a Time of Change | Proudly presented in partnership with Regenlabs

Regional communities that have spent years strengthening local supply chains, investing in distributed energy and building trusted business networks are far better positioned to withstand future shocks, as illustrated in Reece Proudfoot’s “future history” of 2028.

Drawing on Regen Labs’ latest research and a panel of on the ground practitioners, this session explores how regional businesses can shift from reactive adaptation to proactive economic transformation across food systems, energy, circular manufacturing and community finance.

It invites regional leaders, policymakers and business owners to consider what it would take to design economies that not only survive disruption but thrive because of it, with breakfast included and proudly presented in partnership with Regen Labs.

Registration: $50 (including GST) per person

9:30am - 4:30pm (The Shine Dome, Acton)

THRIVE 2026: Powering Regional Prosperity Forum

Featuring a government leadership panel discussion with ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr and the Hon. Dr Andrew Leigh MP moderated by Genevieve Jacobs AM, exploring innovation, skills and regional investment readiness. Keynote addresses from Professor the Hon. Bill Shorten, Dr. Nigel Palmer from Business NSW, Brendan Smyth ACT Export Commissioner and Brad Cam from Mid-Western Regional Council along with a host of expert panellists.

Guided by RDASNA’s THRIVE Strategy, the program features four focused sessions:

• The Next Phase of Regional Innovation and Industry Growth

• Building the Regional Workforce of the Future

• Regional Investment Ready - now, next and later

• Vibrant Populations and Liveability

This event spotlights the opportunities, emerging industries and partnerships shaping a prosperous future for Southern NSW and the ACT, showcasing why our regions are primed for growth, talent and investment.

Registration: $120 (including GST) per person includes attendance to all event sessions, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea.

Note: Paid parking is available at Nishi carpark on Phillip Law St, City West car park at 1 Allsop St and One City Hill corner of Edinburgh Ave and Vernon Circle.

6:00pm - 10:00pm (Hotel Realm, Barton)

An Evening of prosperity and partnership | Guest Speaker: Paul West, Grow It Local

Join us for an evening dedicated to connection, collaboration and the shared ambition driving the THRIVE 2026 program. Featuring guest speaker, Paul West, a well-known regional personality, Co-founder of Grow It Local, broadcaster with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, and host of River Cottage Australia and Back Roads. Paul brings a grounded and inspiring perspective on regional communities, sustainability and the strength of local economies. 

Hosted at Hotel Realm, the evening will be enriched by his insights, experience and passion for regional prosperity. 

Registration: $150 (including GST) per person includes beverages, canapes, main and dessert.

Note: Complimentary parking at Hotel Realm available after 4:30pm for guests attending the evening event.

Your registration and payment confirmation will be emailed to you once your registration is complete.