HUNTER AGENDA 2026
16th December 2025
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 youths 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.
Alice Thompson, CEO, Committee for the Hunter, said “Hunter Agenda 2026 is not just an event - it is a statement of leadership where we take our place on the national stage. At a time of industrial, energy and geopolitical disruption, the Hunter is helping set the standard on how regions navigate change, attract investment and deliver long-term opportunity. The event brings together national and international leaders alongside local voices across sectors to define an ambitious vision for the region and the priorities required to deliver it.”
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.
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)
Our Partners
The inaugural Hunter Agenda 2026 would not be possible without the leadership and dedication of our partners, whose support is defining a new era for the Hunter.
We’re proud to have the leadership of Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) as our Platinum Government Partner, our Insights Partner: KPMG along with our Gold Partner: EXP Capital, Milleen and NGM Group, our Silver Partners: Newcastle Airport and Telstra and our Contributor Engenicom.
David Shankey – CEO, Net Zero Economy Authority (NZEA) said:
'What we are doing is reinforcing that regions like the Hunter are front and centre in our planning, our support, our partnership. Big ambitions matter, but so do local supply chains, local jobs, local ownership."
Michael Vance – Managing Director - EXP Capital said:
"EXP Capital is honoured to be a part of and support the Hunter Agenda 2026. This initiative represents a pivotal step in driving global and national leadership, and we are excited to contribute to its success. We believe that the Hunter Agenda will pave the way for innovative solutions and transformative progress in our region, and we look forward to collaborating with all involved.”
Andrew Stones – General Manager and Director – Milleen said:
"Hunter Agenda 2026 aligns strongly with our focus on long-term infrastructure, capability, and leadership outcomes. By bringing national and global perspectives to the Hunter, it supports the decisions that underpin sustainable growth, skills development, and future investment—principles the Milleen Group has been committed to through workforce development, industry leadership, and regional advocacy for generations."
NGM Group - Chief Customer and Digital Innovation Officer James Cudmore said:
“NGM Group is proud to support the inaugural Hunter Agenda forum, a platform that brings together fresh ideas and bold thinking to shape our region’s future. By championing collaboration, insight and innovation, we can help ensure the Hunter continues to thrive for generations to come.”
Don’t miss your chance to be part of setting the agenda for one of Australia’s most dynamic regions.
Tickets for Hunter Agenda 2026 on Friday 13 March 2026 are now on sale.