The 2025 National Economic Development Conference (NEDC25) will be held in Newcastle (Mulubinba) from October 28-30, with the theme ‘Shaping Tomorrow’s Economy’.
NEDC is the flagship event of Economic Development Australia (EDA), the national peak body for economic development professionals with over 2200 members.
Australia’s premier conference for economic development professionals, NEDC25 will explore the transformative forces shaping Australia’s economy and the global landscape while presenting actionable strategies to build resilient, sustainable, innovative, and inclusive cities and regions.
Why should you attend?
With an exceptional lineup of speakers from across the nation and the globe, here are four reasons why you should join EDA at the largest gathering of economic development professionals in Australia.
A world class program featuring distinguished speakers
The NEDC25 program features an exceptional line up of keynotes including Dr Christian Ketels, Lead Economist at The World Bank, Dr Ben Hamer, Sociologist and Futurist, and Luli Adeyemo, Director and Founder of Best Case Scenario. They will be joined by economic development leaders from across Australia, who will share practical insights, case studies and on the ground experiences.
A program highlight will be the Global Insights Panel, facilitated by EDA CEO, Jacqueline Brinkman and featuring Vaughn Cooper, Chair of Economic Development New Zealand, Jennnifer Mathews, EDA Director with specialist expertise in international trade and diplomacy, having served as a Diplomat and Trade Commissioner in South East Asia, and Simon Massey, EDA Director and experienced economic developer, currently working in the field in Canada. Keynote Dr Christian Ketels will also join the panel discussion, providing insights as we face converging forces of geoeconomics, sustainability and technological disruption
Don’t miss The Great Debate, an exciting session which will interrogate: ‘AI: Job Creator or Job Killer?’ Prepare for a lively, thought-provoking showdown!
Build powerful networks
NEDC25 provides delegates with numerous opportunities to reconnect and meet new industry professionals to share knowledge and resources, as well as explore potential collaborations or partnerships. The event also offers delegates the chance to engage directly with speakers – from dynamic Q&A sessions to informal conversations during networking events and breaks. The conference kicks off with the Welcome Reception sponsored by Lucid Economics at the iconic Roundhouse, which offers a great chance to join national colleagues and enjoy sparkling conversations and top-tier local produce.
Celebrate economic development excellence
Celebrate industry leaders at the 2025 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence Gala sponsored by Curtin University. This gala event celebrates those organisations and individuals who are driving sustainable growth and community prosperity across Australia. Winners will be announced throughout the evening, while attendees are treated to fantastic entertainment before hitting the dancefloor to dance the night away – it’s truly an evening not to be missed! View the 2025 finalists here.
Experience immersive learning
NEDC25 offers three Study Tours, providing delegates with a unique opportunity to engage in immersive activities aligned to the NEDC25 theme. Whether your interest lies in innovation and sustainability, local initiatives creating global impact or the development of creative communities, each tour offers valuable insights and inspiration to support meaningful change in your own city or region. But be quick, these tours are selling fast so secure your place now.
Join EDA in Newcastle (Mulubinba) this October and help to shape the future of our economy. To register or learn more, visit www.edaconference.com.au
