Economic Development Australia’s flagship event, the National Economic Development Conference, returns this October to celebrate the ‘Power of Place’.
NEDC24 will explore how place-based economic development enhances and leverages the physical, cultural and social identity of place, to help drive community prosperity, resilience and empowerment. Council spoke with Economic Development Australia CEO Jacqueline Brinkman to learn more about the event.
What is the focus for this year’s program?
The theme is the Power of Place, which is about showcasing how local economic development has community at its centre. The program will highlight how place-based economic development can create sustainable, equitable, and localised economic growth, while improving quality of life for communities.
Who are the key speakers?
Dr Katherine Trebeck will be a highlight keynote. Katherine is a global authority on the wellbeing economy and is the best in the business at explaining the theory and setting out how economic developers can advocate and implement economic system change at a local level. She is a key advisor to international governments on this topic.
The Breakout Sessions will provide learnings across a range of areas, allowing a deeper dive into various topics. We are looking forward to our fireside chat with Nathan Ohle, the President of the International Economic Development Council.
There is also enormous excitement in the inaugural Great Debate. Our teams will go head-to-head on the premise that: The Role of Economic Development is Growth. This will be a lively and robust conversation which will challenge perspectives.
What will delegates learn for their regions?
Delegates will leave with the tools to combat the complex challenges they face including housing, climate impact, workforce, generational equity and place branding.
Why should local governments attend NEDC24?
NEDC is a unique conference as the program is curated to provide economic development professionals with practical and implementable tools. The event also provides plenty of opportunities to build a powerful network.
