Economic Development Australia (EDA) has appointed Tablelands Regional Council General Manager Placemaking, Greg Bowden, as Chair of its Board.
Bowden has served on the EDA Board since 2021 and brings experience across local government, regional development, placemaking, investment attraction, tourism, major events and stakeholder engagement.
His appointment follows the resignation of former Chair, Matt Grant, and comes as economic development practitioners play an increasingly important role in supporting regional growth, attracting investment and strengthening local economies.
Bowden said it was an honour to lead the national peak body for economic development professionals.
“It is humbling to be appointed as Chair of EDA, our profession’s peak body,” Bowden said.
“It is our intention to grow the organisation and, more importantly, to raise the profile of EDA and economic development as a profession with stakeholders across Australia.
“Our profession is growing and it is important that economic development practitioners have a voice and are recognised as leaders in shaping tomorrow’s economy.”
EDA said Bowden’s appointment would support the organisation’s continued focus on governance, member engagement, professional development and national advocacy.
The organisation said the appointment also reflects the important role economic development practitioners working in councils and regional organisations play in building resilient communities, supporting investment and creating long-term economic opportunities.
EDA thanked outgoing Chair Matt Grant for his contribution to the organisation and welcomed Bowden into the role.
