CLAIR Forum 2026: ‘Sustainable and Thriving Communities’

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Centre for Local Government (CLG) at the Institute for Public Policy and Governance (IPPG) and The Japan Local Government Centre (CLAIR Sydney) invite you to an interactive panel session on ‘Sustainable and Thriving Communities’. 

The 2026 CLAIR Forum will examine how local governments in Japan and Australia are reimagining the future of their communities in response to ageing populations and the evolving challenges facing rural and regional areas. Through forward-looking case studies, the Forum will explore how council-led, place-based initiatives — from tourism innovation and economic stimulus projects, to community activation and youth–industry partnerships — are driving economic and social renewal and strengthening long-term regional resilience.

With an emphasis on sustainable growth, the Forum will showcase strategies that keep communities vibrant and liveable by encouraging visitation, fostering local pride and creating pathways for young people to remain, return or invest in their regions. Together, these approaches highlight the role local governments can play in shaping adaptive, inclusive and resilient places with a futures focus.

The CLAIR Forum is an annual half-day seminar organised and sponsored by CLAIR Sydney and IPPG:CLG, which has been held since 1995. The Forum provides an opportunity for Australian and New Zealand government officials and academics to exchange knowledge and ideas on topics of mutual interest. 

Join our expert panellists Ryosuke Tabuchi (Assistant Director, CLAIR Sydney / Ehime Prefectural Government), Natsuki Nishizaka (CLAIR Sydney / Okayama Prefectural Government) and Yuki Miyauchi (CLAIR Sydney / Hokuto City Council of Yamanashi), alongside Brendan Shipley (Manager Events & Tourism / Parkes Elvis Festival Director) and Daniel Cove (Director of Cultural & Community Services at Bathurst regional Council) to explore future-focused strategies, shared challenges and local innovations shaping resilient communities in Australia and Japan.

Delivery style

This hybrid event, hosted both in person and on Zoom will explore how local governments in Japan and Australia are responding to ageing populations and regional change through place-based initiatives.

Schedule

1.45 pm Arrival and registration
2.00 pm Presentations and Q&A
3.10 pm Light Refreshments and Networking
3.40 pm Presentations and Q&A
4.30 pm Networking
5.00 pm Conclusion

Meet our panellists

Ryosuke Tabuchi is an Assistant Director at CLAIR Sydney, seconded from the Ehime Prefectural Government. He has worked across a wide range of policy areas, including the promotion of cycle tourism, most notably through the planning and management of Cycling Shimanami, an international cycling event, as well as public health administration related to COVID-19. In his presentation, he will share perspectives on sustainable tourism and local economic development through cycling along the Shimanami Kaido, a scenic cycling route connecting Japan's main island of Honshu with Shikoku.

Natsuki Nishizaka began her career at the Okayama Prefectural Government in 2016. She first worked in the Statistical Analysis Division, where she was involved in implementing national statistical surveys. She then held General Affairs roles in multiple departments. Later, she worked in the Okayama Marathon Department, contributing to venue planning and volunteer operations for one of the region’s largest sporting events. Natsuki is currently seconded to CLAIR Sydney, where she supports both current and former JETs. In her presentation, she will discuss the Okayama Marathon from the perspective of regional revitalisation.

Yuki Miyauchi began her career at the Hokuto City Council of Yamanashi Prefecture in 2018. She first worked in the Lifelong Learning Division, engaging with residents through community events. She later served at a branch office, supporting resident services and welfare volunteers while gaining firsthand experience of the challenges facing rural communities. She then worked in the Long-Term Care Insurance Division, gaining insight into an ageing society. Yuki is currently seconded to the CLAIR Sydney office. In her presentation, she will introduce a project supporting Hokuto City’s sustainability initiatives involving students.

Brendan Shipley has more than 25 years in the entertainment industry, he has built a distinguished career as a Tour Manager, Executive Producer, and Director, recognised for his strategic leadership, creative insight, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His work spans live theatre, national touring productions, festivals, theme parks, and large‑scale events, where he has become known for delivering seamless, high‑impact experiences for audiences and artists alike.

Beginning his career as a theatre performer before transitioning into production and tour management, Brendan has since led complex operations across Australia and internationally from multi‑venue national tours to extended festival seasons and intricate load‑in/load‑out schedules. His expertise includes contract negotiation, technical production, venue coordination, and the management of large budgets, teams, and creative stakeholders. Directors, performers, and venue partners consistently commend his clarity, professionalism, and proactive problem‑solving in high‑pressure environments.

Today, Brendan continues to collaborate with promoters, theatre companies, councils, and creative teams, offering a rare combination of strategic oversight, hands‑on production expertise, and a passion for elevating live performance experiences.

Dan Cove is the Director of Cultural & Community Services at Bathurst Regional Council, overseeing a portfolio including community development, management of Bathurst’s suite of cultural facilities consisting of four museums, the regional Art Gallery, Library and Entertainment Centre, tourism and events. He has extensive experience in tourism management, including formerly serving as Bathurst’s Manager of Tourism & Visitor Services, as manager of the Jenolan Caves, and as a board member of Ecotourism Australia and the International Show Caves Association. He is heavily involved in promoting tourism, events, cultural activities, and community development in regional NSW. Dan has worked in State and Local Government for over 20 years in New South Wales.