RDA Orana launches 2026 Inland Growth Summit with Powerhouse Speaker Lineup

The 2026 Inland Growth Summit is returning to Dubbo on 22–23 April 2026, with Regional Development Australia (RDA) Orana revealing a stellar program that cements the event as inland Australia’s premier forum for regional leadership, innovation and economic opportunity.

Now in its eighth year, the Summit brings together business and industry leaders, policymakers, local government, entrepreneurs and community advocates to explore the ideas, challenges and opportunities shaping inland NSW. The 2026 program will spotlight the people and organisations driving transformation across key sectors including agriculture, tourism, water, transport, workforce and energy.

RDA Orana CEO Justine Campbell said the Summit continues to grow as a national platform for elevating inland voices and showcasing the region’s potential.

“The Inland Growth Summit is where inland Australia comes together to shape its own future. Every year, this event amplifies the voices, ideas and innovations that are driving real change across our region. 

“The 2026 program showcases the people who are tackling our biggest challenges headon, from workforce and housing to agriculture, energy and water security, and turning them into opportunities for growth. Inland NSW is leading the nation in resilience, innovation and ambition, and this Summit is our platform to share that story.”

RDA Orana has revealed the first wave of speakers headlining the 2026 Summit, including keynote speakers Kelly McJannett, Co-Founder of the Food Ladder to discuss AI for Global Change, and Dr Rolf Gomes, Founder of Hearts of Australia, alongside national thought leaders and regional changemakers across critical sectors including:

• Liz Ritchie – CEO, Regional Australia Institute (Workforce)

• Sheena Martin, Senior Manager Government Relations, Port of Newcastle (Transport)

• Fiona Nash – Regional Education Commissioner (Education)

• Andrew McConville – CEO, Murray Darling Basin Authority (Water)

• Matthew Couton - Associate Director, Ricardo (Water)

• Shari Boomer – National President, Murray Darling Association (Water)

• David Kirby – General Manager, Brewarrina Shire Council (Water)

• Leonie Brown – General Manager, Bourke Shire Council (Water)

• John Cleland – CEO, Essential Energy (Energy)

• Tony Mahar – Australian Energy Infrastructure Commissioner (Energy)

• Sabiene Heindl – CEO, The Energy Charter (Energy)

• Ryan Robinson – General Manager Northern Region, Elders (Agriculture)

• Indiana Rhind - Agricultural Engineer, evokeAG (Agriculture)

• Brooke Watts – Operations Manager, Bralca (Agriculture)

• Steve Hinks – Director, Taronga Western Plains Zoo (Tourism)

These speakers will lead discussions on the future of inland industries, the policy settings needed to unlock growth, and the innovations emerging from regional communities.

The Summit will also feature local innovators and entrepreneurs whose ideas, products and services are strengthening inland communities and contributing to a more resilient, inclusive and economically vibrant future.

“The 2026 Summit arrives at a pivotal time for inland NSW, with regional communities leading national conversations on housing, workforce, transport, agriculture, migration and energy transition. The event will explore practical solutions, new partnerships and emerging opportunities for growth,” concluded Ms Campbell. 

Event details: 2026 Inland Growth Summit, 22–23 April 2026 at Lazy River Estate, Dubbo. To find out more or purchase tickets, visit inlandgrowthsummit.com