Hunter Agenda 2026

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

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

The Hunter region  is at the centre of global and national policy on clean energy,  climate  and industry and  stands at a pivotal moment in  its  history.  

Hunter Agenda  2026  is a platform to forge a shared vision for the region’s future  with a joined up action plan. The event  will be held on  Friday 13 March 2026  and brings together global  and national  leaders,  all three levels of government, academia,  unions, business,  industry, the social sector, as well as youth and civic  leaders.    

Through  international  and national  insights  and  interactive discussions  with local stakeholders, participants will define an actionable roadmap that will guide coordinated advocacy, investment  and  meaningful  transformation across the Hunter. This will align diverse regional priorities  to ensure the Hunter exceeds its potential  and becomes a global model for industrial transformation.  

• Join 200+ delegates and be part of the most important conversation the Hunter will have in 2026
• Much more than an event where you enjoy lunch, network and leave without making real change
• A thought leadership forum where local stakeholders connect with national and international experts to debate, discuss and take action on the region’s biggest opportunities and challenges

Program Highlights

Our 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)*

Be part of the conversation that will define the Hunter’s next chapter.

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