The Outback Way Action Plan: A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth
Tracks
Plenary 2
Thursday, July 24, 2025 |
11:20 AM - 11:40 AM |
Plenary Two |
Overview
Melanie Forbes, Outback Highway Development Council Inc
Speaker
Melanie Forbes
General Manager
Outback Highway Development Council Inc
The Outback Way Action Plan: A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth
Presentation Overview
The Outback Way Action Plan: A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth
Workshop Overview: The Outback Way Action Plan – A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth
The Outback Highway Development Council (OHDC) invites you to participate in a collaborative workshop on The Outback Way Action Plan: A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth. This session will provide an in-depth look at the 2024 Action Plan and offer stakeholders the opportunity to contribute their insights and engage in the future development of this transformational project.
Workshop Structure:
Part 1: Delivering the 2024 Outback Way Action Plan
The first half of the workshop will present the key priorities and strategic direction outlined in the 2024 Outback Way Action Plan. Participants will gain insights into:
The vision and objectives for completing the sealing of the Outback Way by 2032
The economic, social, and environmental benefits of this infrastructure project
Current progress, funding commitments, and next steps in implementation
The role of the Outback Way in enhancing regional connectivity, economic development, and sustainability.
This segment will highlight how the Outback Way is unlocking opportunities for industries such as mining, tourism, transport, and agriculture, while also improving community access to essential services.
Part 2: Stakeholder Engagement & Input
The second half will focus on collaboration and consultation, where stakeholders will provide input on how the Action Plan can best serve regional businesses, Indigenous communities, and industry partners.
Discussion topics will include:
Key challenges and opportunities for stakeholders
Strategies to realise the benefits of a fully sealed Outback Way
Growing partnerships and investment to support long-term outcomes
This interactive session will help shape future advocacy efforts and ensure stakeholder voices are central to the ongoing development of the Outback Way.
Workshop Overview: The Outback Way Action Plan – A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth
The Outback Highway Development Council (OHDC) invites you to participate in a collaborative workshop on The Outback Way Action Plan: A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth. This session will provide an in-depth look at the 2024 Action Plan and offer stakeholders the opportunity to contribute their insights and engage in the future development of this transformational project.
Workshop Structure:
Part 1: Delivering the 2024 Outback Way Action Plan
The first half of the workshop will present the key priorities and strategic direction outlined in the 2024 Outback Way Action Plan. Participants will gain insights into:
The vision and objectives for completing the sealing of the Outback Way by 2032
The economic, social, and environmental benefits of this infrastructure project
Current progress, funding commitments, and next steps in implementation
The role of the Outback Way in enhancing regional connectivity, economic development, and sustainability.
This segment will highlight how the Outback Way is unlocking opportunities for industries such as mining, tourism, transport, and agriculture, while also improving community access to essential services.
Part 2: Stakeholder Engagement & Input
The second half will focus on collaboration and consultation, where stakeholders will provide input on how the Action Plan can best serve regional businesses, Indigenous communities, and industry partners.
Discussion topics will include:
Key challenges and opportunities for stakeholders
Strategies to realise the benefits of a fully sealed Outback Way
Growing partnerships and investment to support long-term outcomes
This interactive session will help shape future advocacy efforts and ensure stakeholder voices are central to the ongoing development of the Outback Way.
Biography
Melanie Forbes is the General Manager of the Outback Highway Development Council Inc (OHDC). and the Manager of the Outdoor Billboard Gallery (OBG). With expertise in regional development, regional tourism, and strategic communications, she plays a key role in advancing the Outback Way project, driving economic growth in remote and regional communities. At OHDC, she leads efforts to secure funding, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and oversee project delivery. Passionate about grassroots engagement and sustainable development, Melanie is committed to creating lasting benefits for industries, businesses, towns and communities along the Outback Way.
