THRIVE 2026: Powering Regional Prosperity
Description
THRIVE 2026: Powering Regional Prosperity is RDASNA’s flagship regional engagement, investment and advocacy event for 2026. It will bring together leaders from government, industry, investment and the community to advance shared economic priorities across Southern NSW and the ACT.
Aligned with RDASNA’s THRIVE Strategy, the event is focused on highlighting opportunities and innovation that support business growth, strengthen workforce capability and skills development, and enable investment-ready regions. Through targeted dialogue, partnership development and evidence-based insights, THRIVE 2026 will reinforce the region’s position as a competitive, connected and liveable destination for investment, talent and sustainable long-term growth.
PROGRAM
The Shine Dome, Acton
7:30am to 9:00am
Leaders Breakfast: Designing Regional Economies for a Time of Change
Proudly presented in partnership with Regenlabs
9:30am to 4:30pm
THRIVE 2026: Powering Regional Prosperity Forum
Hotel Realm, Barton
6:00pm to 10:00pm
An Evening of Prosperity and Partnership with Guest Speaker, Paul West from Grow It Local
Events
- 7:30 am - 9:00 am
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.
- 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
THRIVE 2026: Powering Regional Prosperity Forum
Join Regional Development Australia Southern NSW and ACT (RDASNA) for a flagship event bringing together government, industry, investors and community leaders to accelerate shared economic priorities across Southern NSW and the ACT. Featuring a government leadership panel discussion with ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr and 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. 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.
- 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
An Evening of Prosperity & Partnership | Dinner with 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. Note: Complimentary parking at Hotel Realm available after 4:30pm for guests attending the evening event.
Meet our Sponsors
Platinum Sponsor
Silver Sponsor
Session Sponsors
Afternoon Tea Sponsor
Function Venue Partner
Presented in partnership with
Our accommodation provider - Doma Hotels
Our accommodation partner - Doma Hotels
By using promo code EVENT attendees will receive a 15% discount off the best flexible rate for Hotel Realm, Burbury Hotel & Apartments and Little National Hotel.
(Subject to availability, rates are dynamic and may change as occupancy picks up)
Terms & Conditions
Registration Terms & Conditions
Participation
To participant in THRIVE 2026: Powering Regional Prosperity is $120 (inc GST) per person and includes:
Coffee/Tea, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea
Attendance at all event sessions
To participant in THRIVE 2026 evening function is $150 (inc GST) per person and includes:
4 hour beverage package
Canapes on arrival
Sit down main meal
Dessert with tea and coffee
Your registration and payment will be confirmed via email upon completion of registration.
Payment
Payment can be made via credit card and Paypal. Invoices are automatically generated and you will receive this upon confirmation of your registration. A small booking fee will apply through the Humanitix software.
Cancellations and refund terms and conditions
If you have booked to attend the THRIVE 2026: Powering Regional Prosperity Forum and no longer able to attend, our cancellation and refund policy can be downloaded here.
Further information about can be found on our website:
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
