Growing Northern Talent: Building the North’s Capability - In Conversation with the Regional Education Commissioner, NT Chief Justice and NAUA Leaders
Tracks
Concurrent Room 2
| Wednesday, August 5, 2026 |
| 3:45 PM - 4:45 PM |
Speaker
Professor Simon Biggs
Vice Chancellor and President
James Cook University Australia
Growing Northern Talent: Building the North’s Capability - In Conversation with the Regional Education Commissioner, NT Chief Justice and NAUA Leaders
Presentation Overview
Northern Australia faces both challenges and opportunities as it works to strengthen the people and skills that sustain its communities and industries. This explores what it takes to grow Northern talent, considering how skills pipelines, student mobility, workforce retention and regional capability shape the North’s long term prospects. It also highlights the interconnected nature of the Northern education, industry, and community ecosystem, and the role each part plays in supporting a strong, adaptable workforce. This discussion positions Northern capability as a national priority, placing people, pathways, and partnerships at the centre of Australia’s productivity agenda.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
Biography
Professor Simon Biggs commenced his appointment as Vice Chancellor and President of James Cook University Australia in February 2022. He is responsible for ensuring clear and effective leadership and management of the University across all operating sites, including campuses in Cairns, Townsville and Singapore.
Educated at the University of Bristol in the UK, Professor Biggs holds a PhD in Colloid Science. Professor Biggs’ main research interests are in the field of colloid and interface engineering. He was the chief investigator on numerous research projects and has authored more than 270 refereed publications as well as being named on over 20 patents. Professor Biggs is an experienced board member with numerous appointments in both Australia and the UK over the last 20 years. He was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in 2011 and in 2016, as a Fellow of the Australian Academy for Technological Sciences and Engineering.
Professor Amit Chakma
Vice-Chancellor and President
The University of Western Australia
Growing Northern Talent: Building the North’s Capability - In Conversation with the Regional Education Commissioner, NT Chief Justice and NAUA Leaders
Presentation Overview
Northern Australia faces both challenges and opportunities as it works to strengthen the people and skills that sustain its communities and industries. This explores what it takes to grow Northern talent, considering how skills pipelines, student mobility, workforce retention and regional capability shape the North’s long term prospects. It also highlights the interconnected nature of the Northern education, industry, and community ecosystem, and the role each part plays in supporting a strong, adaptable workforce. This discussion positions Northern capability as a national priority, placing people, pathways, and partnerships at the centre of Australia’s productivity agenda.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
Biography
Amit Chakma is the Vice-Chancellor and President of The University of Western Australia, a role he has held since 2020. An accomplished academic and higher education leader, he previously served as President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Western Ontario from 2009 to 2019, and as Provost and Vice-President Academic at the University of Waterloo from 2001 to 2009.
Beyond his institutional leadership, Professor Chakma has made significant contributions to global higher education. He served as Chair of the Council of the Association of Commonwealth Universities from 2017 to 2019, was Acting Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Asian University for Women from 2013 to 2015, and chaired Canada’s Advisory Panel on International Education Strategy from 2011 to 2013. Trained as a chemical engineer, he is widely recognised for his commitment to international engagement, research excellence, and strategic university leadership.
Honourable Michael Grant AO
Chief Justice Of The Northern Territory
Growing Northern Talent: Building the North’s Capability - In Conversation with the Regional Education Commissioner, NT Chief Justice and NAUA Leaders
Presentation Overview
Northern Australia faces both challenges and opportunities as it works to strengthen the people and skills that sustain its communities and industries. This explores what it takes to grow Northern talent, considering how skills pipelines, student mobility, workforce retention and regional capability shape the North’s long term prospects. It also highlights the interconnected nature of the Northern education, industry, and community ecosystem, and the role each part plays in supporting a strong, adaptable workforce. This discussion positions Northern capability as a national priority, placing people, pathways, and partnerships at the centre of Australia’s productivity agenda.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
Biography
His Honour was appointed Chief Justice of the Northern Territory Supreme Court in 2016. Prior to his appointment he was Solicitor-General for the Northern Territory. Before his appointment as Solicitor-General, Chief Justice Grant practised at the private bar and was appointed silk in 2006.
Before joining the private bar, Chief Justice Grant was Director of Litigation with the Crown Solicitor's Office. He also lectured in Torts and Taxation Law at the Charles Darwin University. His Honour’s other appointments have included Statutory Supervisor of the Legal Profession, President of the Medical Disciplinary Tribunal and member of the Law Society Council.
Professor Nick Klomp
Vice-Chancellor and President
CQUniversity Australia
Growing Northern Talent: Building the North’s Capability - In Conversation with the Regional Education Commissioner, NT Chief Justice and NAUA Leaders
Presentation Overview
Northern Australia faces both challenges and opportunities as it works to strengthen the people and skills that sustain its communities and industries. This explores what it takes to grow Northern talent, considering how skills pipelines, student mobility, workforce retention and regional capability shape the North’s long term prospects. It also highlights the interconnected nature of the Northern education, industry, and community ecosystem, and the role each part plays in supporting a strong, adaptable workforce. This discussion positions Northern capability as a national priority, placing people, pathways, and partnerships at the centre of Australia’s productivity agenda.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
Biography
Professor Nick Klomp is the Vice-Chancellor and President of CQUniversity Australia, the largest regional university in the country. As Vice-Chancellor, he leads the University by driving its strategy and academic vision, enhancing its culture and external profile, strengthening its finances and supporting its communities, across the University's national network of campuses.
Professor Klomp is passionate about student engagement in learning, excellence in teaching, and research with impact.
Professor Klomp has a Bachelor of Applied Science degree from Curtin University, First Class Honours from Murdoch University and a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Glasgow.
The Hon Fiona Nash
Regional Education Commissioner / Acting Interim Commissioner
Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC)
Growing Northern Talent: Building the North’s Capability - In Conversation with the Regional Education Commissioner, NT Chief Justice and NAUA Leaders
Presentation Overview
Northern Australia faces both challenges and opportunities as it works to strengthen the people and skills that sustain its communities and industries. This explores what it takes to grow Northern talent, considering how skills pipelines, student mobility, workforce retention and regional capability shape the North’s long term prospects. It also highlights the interconnected nature of the Northern education, industry, and community ecosystem, and the role each part plays in supporting a strong, adaptable workforce. This discussion positions Northern capability as a national priority, placing people, pathways, and partnerships at the centre of Australia’s productivity agenda.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
This session includes two keynotes. The first, delivered by the Hon Fiona Nash, Regional Education Commissioner and Interim ATEC Commissioner, will examine the critical role of education, training, and career pathways in developing and retaining talent, particularly in the regions. The second keynote is our Alumni Spotlight, featuring the Chief Justice of the Northern Territory, showcasing the profound contribution of Northern graduates to the region. Highlighting the power of local educational pathways to produce leaders who serve, advocate and influence at the highest levels while remaining deeply connected to the community. It underscores the transformative outcomes that NAUA institutions, in this case Charles Darwin University, help create.
A panel conversation will follow, comprising the Regional Education Commissioner, Chief Justice of the Northern Territory and NAUA Vice Chancellors. Together, they will explore the factors that shape whether students stay, return or build long term careers in the region; the points where education and training align effectively with industry needs; and the places where new thinking is required. The panel will consider how employers, governments and universities can better co design talent pathways and reflect on what a thriving Northern workforce could and should look like over the next decade.
Biography
The Hon Fiona Nash grew up in Sydney and has spent the last three decades living and working in regional Australia. For many years she was involved in a family farming enterprise in the central west of NSW, which her sons Will and Henry are now running.
Fiona spent 12 years in the federal parliament as a Senator for NSW and also held
ministerial positions including Rural Health, and in Cabinet the positions of Regional
Development, Regional Communications and Local Government and Territories. She also held the position of Deputy Leader of the Nationals. From 2018 to 2021 Fiona was the Strategic Adviser, Regional Engagement and Government Relations for Charles Sturt University.
Fiona was appointed by the Australian Government as the Regional Education
Commissioner in December 2021. She was appointed Acting interim Commissioner of the interim Australian Tertiary Education Commission (ATEC) in January 2026.
