Hunter Agenda 2026

Breaking New Ground: Hunter Agenda 2026 to Welcome Global and National Leadership.

Join the Committee for the Hunter for the premier inaugural thought leadership forum - Hunter Agenda 2026.

Hunter Agenda 2026 will be a platform to forge a shared vision for the region’s future with a joined up action plan.

The event will bring together global and national leaders, the three levels of government, academia, unions, business, industry, the social sector, as well as youths and civic leaders.

Discussions will focus on defining the priorities that will guide coordinated advocacy, investment and meaningful transformation across the Hunter.

Through international and national insights and interactive discussions with local stakeholders, participants will contribute in the creation of an actionable roadmap for long-term growth. This will align the diverse regional priorities to ensure the Hunter exceeds its current potential and becomes a global model for industrial transformation.

Who Should Attend:

• Local business leaders
• Community organisations
• Government representatives
• Academia, Educators and researchers
• Industry professionals

Speakers

David Shankey – CEO, Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA)

David Shankey leads Federal efforts to help regions, industries and workers navigate Australia’s net zero transformation, with a focus on ensuring coal communities like the Hunter are supported through change and positioned to capture new economic opportunities. As CEO, he oversees the coordination of programs, investment and place-based strategies designed to drive new industry, workforce transition and long-term regional resilience. Mr Shankey will outline the Australian Government’s ambitions for the Hunter, the transition opportunities emerging across energy, manufacturing and advanced industries, and the practical pathways being developed to connect workers and employers to these opportunities.

Malcolm Turnbull – 29th Prime Minister of Australia

Mr Turnbull will discuss Australia’s evolution towards an economy powered by knowledge, technology and innovation, drawing on the national innovation and cities agendas he championed as Prime Minister. He will outline how education, skills and a culture that values entrepreneurship and problem-solving underpin innovation, driving national productivity and global competitiveness. Mr Turnbull will also emphasise the importance of lifelong learning and workforce adaptability in preparing regions like the Hunter for emerging industries, and securing our place in a high-value, innovation-led economy.

Henrik Stiesdal – International Keynote Speaker

Mr Stiesdal, widely regarded as the inventor of the modern wind turbine, designed the first three-bladed, upwind, variable-speed turbines that set today’s global standard. Drawing on Denmark’s journey from the 1970s oil shocks to global clean energy leader, he will explore the disruptions that drove energy, industry and technology innovation, and the modern policy frameworks that sustain it. He will explore current headwinds facing global projects, and why floating offshore wind – central to the Hunter’s zone – is a critical technology Australia can help bring to commercial viability. With deep experience in industrialisation and manufacturing, Mr Stiesdal will outline how Hunter industry can position to secure high-value roles in emerging clean-tech supply chains.

More speakers to be announced.

Hunter Agenda 2026 is where the region’s future is being shaped and where those invested in the Hunter’s success need to be part of the conversation.

Thank you to our partners: