FEATURING
Bernard Salt AM
Bernard Salt AM is one of Australia’s foremost demographers, futurists, and social commentators, renowned for his incisive analysis of societal trends—especially those shaping regional and rural Australia. As Managing Director of The Demographics Group, best-selling author and columnist for The Australian newspaper, Bernard’s insights extend into how regional communities can thrive.
Cathy McGowan AO
Cathy McGowan is a trailblazer in regional leadership and community empowerment. Best known for her historic win as the independent MP for Indi, Cathy’s grassroots campaign reshaped how politics is done in regional Australia—placing local voices, integrity, and collaboration at the centre of decision-making.
Liz Ritchie
Liz Ritchie is the dynamic CEO of the Regional Australia Institute, and a proud product of country NSW, raised among the rice crops and river red gums of Deniliquin. With over two decades of experience across the corporate, government, and not-for-profit sectors, she brings unparalleled insight.
Ben Finkel
Ben leads the Australian Regional AI Network, a national initiative helping producers, advisors and agribusinesses explore practical, responsible AI. With a background in strategy and innovation across agriculture, logistics and telecoms, he brings a systems lens to technology adoption in regional settings.
More Speakers And Sessions To Be Announced!
Event Details
-
The Regional Futures Forum will take place on 26–27 March 2026 at Charles Sturt University, Albury. It’s set to be two jam-packed days of insight, innovation and impact — right in the heart of our region.
The stunning Charles Sturt University Albury-Wodonga campus is set among 87 hectares of native bushland and wetlands, a purpose-built, sustainable venue that reflects the spirit of innovation and regional transformation at the heart of the Forum.
-
The Regional Futures Forum is a flagship two-day event dedicated to shaping a bold, connected, and sustainable future for regional Australia.
Hosted in Albury on 26-27 March 2026 by Regional Development Australia Murray, the Forum brings together thought leaders, changemakers, and doers to explore what’s working in the regions, and what’s next in unlocking the future of regional productivity.
This is not another policy conference. It’s a hands-on, high-impact event designed to spark new ideas, forge networks, and fast-track solutions across critical areas of regional transformation.
With a mix of keynote addresses, expert panels, regional showcases and deep-dive roundtables, the Forum will cover topics including:
Advanced manufacturing and regional productivity uplift
Circular economy innovation and waste-to-value industries
The energy transition and the importance of energy security in regional economic development
Artificial Intelligence and smarter service delivery
The future of agriculture led by technology and innovation
The power of regional leadership in creating change
Future Made in Australia: Powering productivity through regional innovation
-
Early bird packages are now available! Be part of the conversation shaping the future of regional Australia — and save while you’re at it. Early bird rates won’t last, so get in early to secure your seat at this must-attend event. Follow this link to book your ticket.
-
Sponsoring the Regional Futures Forum puts your brand at the centre of regional innovation and leadership. As a sponsor, you’ll be part of a high-profile national event that:
Aligns your brand with leadership, innovation and impact in the regions
Connects you with decision-makers across business, government, community and academia
Positions your organisation alongside industry-shaping ideas and leaders
Offers strong media, digital and event branding opportunities
Supports a collaborative, future-focused agenda that delivers real outcomes.
-
We’ve partnered with local hotels to offer exclusive accommodation deals for attendees.
🛏️ Quest Albury
📍 550 Kiewa Street, Albury
📞 02 6058 0900
💸 10% discount – Use code RDA26 when booking over the phone or mention the event name and dates.🛏️ Mantra Albury
📍 524 Smollett Street, Albury
📞 02 6048 8000
💸 Prices:Studio: $175 room only / $197 with breakfast
Deluxe: $185 room only / $207 with breakfast
Secure undercover parking: $15 per night (normally $20)
To book, call and mention the Regional Futures Forum and dates.
🛏️ Thurgoona Country Club Resort
📍 1 Evesham Pl, Thurgoona
📞 (02) 6043 1411Delegates who mention they are attending the conference at CSU will receive exclusive members’ rates on accommodation.