Northern Australia needs to stop thinking telecommunications is a federal issue and grab a slice of the pie – or they will miss out on the economic benefits.

nbn, with a mission to enhance Australia's digital capabilities, aims to provide fast, reliable, and affordable connectivity to meet the needs of Australian households, communities, and businesses. The company has made significant progress, particularly in Northern Australia.

A joint investment with the Australian Government announced in January will upgrade the remaining customers on the Fibre to the Node network. This upgrade will result in 94% of the fixed-line footprint, which includes 11.5 million homes and businesses, being near gigabit capable.

The completion of the Fixed Wireless and Satellite Upgrade Program in early February marked a significant milestone for nbn, delivering faster broadband connectivity to Northern Australians.

According to Accenture research, commissioned by nbn, between now and 2030 our network is set to add $399 billion to Australia’s GDP, worth around $68 billion in 2030 alone. This comes on the back of $122 billion in higher GDP delivered between 2012 and 2022.

In regional Australia, the increase in GDP attributable to the nbn network is twice as great as in metropolitan areas and grows to 16 times greater in remote and isolated areas.

This means leading more opportunities and growth for communities in Northern Australia. The challenge is how Northern Australia will mobilise to make the most of the upgrades and develop a plan to be the beneficiary of job growth and increased GDP.

Almost twenty years on from the establishment of Australia’s Closing the Gap strategy, there has been limited progress in meeting the agreed targets. Aiming to escalate progress, one discrete Aboriginal community in remote northwestern Queensland, Doomadgee, volunteered to become one of six place-based partnership sites in Australia under the National Closing the Gap Agreement. These place-based partnerships provide a focus for the Priority Reforms underpinning the Closing the Gap targets to change the way that governments are working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, with the objective being to strengthen and establish formal partnerships with governments and shared decision-making. The Doomadgee community nominated Gunawuna Jungai Ltd as its community-controlled, community-owned company built to represent the whole of the Doomadgee community. Governance is one of the main objectives of Gunawuna Jungai. As such, the Gunawuna Jungai’s Governance Structure (colloquially referred to as the dartboard model) reflects the structure of the Doomadgee community and exemplifies their commitment to governance that is based on cultural authority. A qualitative research design comprising a documentary analysis and key informant interviews was used to co-create the story of Gunawuna Jungai to identify learning points throughout their journey from idea to incorporation and operation. The visionary leaders of Gunawuna Jungai built culture into every element of the organisation starting with the dartboard model of governance which captures what already happens in the Doomadgee community and a constitution which is aligned to how families work. Hence, structuring by cultural systems not western systems, gives Gunawuna Jungai an opportunity to govern differently for different results than those experienced in the past. Gunawuna Jungai’s story has relevance for other communities in Northern Australia.

The HR in the Tropics project seeks to identify factors that influence HR practices in tropical northern Australia to better understand how to contextualise human resource management (HRM) to meet workforce needs in the region. The context in which HRM is practiced is a salient topic because it seems unlikely that the same HR practices will work equally well in different contexts. Yet, this has not been explored in a within country regional context, despite a broad understanding that it is the case for multi-country contexts. Therefore, the first phase of this research project tested the perception of context with HR practitioners in northern Australia, revealing that more than two thirds (69%) of survey respondents said that ‘HR is different up here!’ The second research phase used an explanatory research design to understand more about if, and how, place shapes HR practices in northern Queensland. The findings suggest that place is integral to how HR practices are implemented. That is, while HR practices appear to be generic; how HR practitioners localised the implementation of HR practices is influenced by place. Through narrative interviews the work experiences that HR practitioners perceived as being unique to northern Queensland were examined. Using the self-others-environment theoretical framework sixteen themes that captured the aspects of place associated with shaping how HR is practiced in northern Queensland were identified. Further, the findings suggest that transformational HR practices were often focused on strategies to implement operational HR activities rather than forward focused HR strategy and workforce transformation. Therefore, given the increasing evidence that context is an essential element of HR practices, consideration for the northern Australian context is essential to build a HR workforce with the skills and expertise to inform policy decisions, build capability and lead workforce development strategies to advance Australia’s north.

The HR in the Tropics project seeks to identify factors that influence HR practices in tropical northern Australia to better understand how to contextualise human resource management (HRM) to meet workforce needs in the region. The context in which HRM is practiced is a salient topic because it seems unlikely that the same HR practices will work equally well in different contexts. Yet, this has not been explored in a within country regional context, despite a broad understanding that it is the case for multi-country contexts. Therefore, the first phase of this research project tested the perception of context with HR practitioners in northern Australia, revealing that more than two thirds (69%) of survey respondents said that ‘HR is different up here!’ The second research phase used an explanatory research design to understand more about if, and how, place shapes HR practices in northern Queensland. The findings suggest that place is integral to how HR practices are implemented. That is, while HR practices appear to be generic; how HR practitioners localised the implementation of HR practices is influenced by place. Through narrative interviews the work experiences that HR practitioners perceived as being unique to northern Queensland were examined. Using the self-others-environment theoretical framework sixteen themes that captured the aspects of place associated with shaping how HR is practiced in northern Queensland were identified. Further, the findings suggest that transformational HR practices were often focused on strategies to implement operational HR activities rather than forward focused HR strategy and workforce transformation. Therefore, given the increasing evidence that context is an essential element of HR practices, consideration for the northern Australian context is essential to build a HR workforce with the skills and expertise to inform policy decisions, build capability and lead workforce development strategies to advance Australia’s north.

The Property Council supports the principle of ‘nothing about Indigenous Peoples, without Indigenous Peoples’ and recognises that meaningful engagement with First Nations communities is essential to sustainable development in Northern Australia.
First Nations communities are central to regional prosperity, offering invaluable traditional knowledge and leadership across key sectors, including housing, tourism, land management, and economic development. Indigenous-led initiatives like the Wilya Janta Housing Initiative and Gulkula Mining Company demonstrate how community-driven projects enhance economic participation while preserving cultural heritage. These projects highlight the importance of ensuring Indigenous voices guide policies and investments affecting their lands.
Sustainable development in Northern Australia must prioritise Indigenous leadership by embedding cultural knowledge into policies, fostering economic opportunities, and addressing infrastructure deficits. Culturally appropriate housing, for example, must be designed with community input, aligning with traditional living arrangements and climate resilience. Likewise, Indigenous-led tourism ventures such as Nitmiluk Tours showcase how cultural preservation can drive economic growth and enrich the visitor experience.
Furthermore, investment in regional connectivity and workforce development must center on Indigenous participation. Supporting training programs that incorporate traditional ecological knowledge and providing employment pathways within Indigenous enterprises ensure long-term, community-driven solutions. Collaborative partnerships between governments, industry, and Indigenous organisations will be crucial in achieving these outcomes.
We firmly believe that policy decisions impacting Indigenous communities must be developed with, not for, Indigenous Peoples. By championing Indigenous-led solutions, we can ensure that economic growth, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation go hand in hand. We urge policymakers to uphold this commitment through tangible action, funding support, and policy frameworks that reflect Indigenous priorities.

Only by fostering true Indigenous participation and leadership can Northern Australia unlock its full potential and build a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and culturally respectful.

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.

Join us on an insightful journey across Northern Australia as the CRC for Developing Northern Australia (CRCNA) showcases the power of research and development (R&D) in driving sustainable economic growth and social prosperity.

From the vast agricultural landscapes to emerging industries, health parity and First Nations-led initiatives, R&D is at the heart of unlocking opportunities that shape the future of the north.

Through collaborative partnerships with industry, government, and communities, CRCNA’s work is delivering real-world impact—enhancing productivity, strengthening supply chains, and fostering resilience in sectors vital to the region’s success. This session will take you into a day in the life of CRCNA staff who are helping to transform agribusiness, healthcare, and water resource management, while ensuring that local voices and knowledge are embedded in decision-making and implementation.

With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, we will share insights that demonstrate how research translates into actionable solutions. From improving tropical health outcomes to boosting First Nations-led enterprises, we explore the tangible benefits of strategic investment in R&D. Our modern presentation will also consider the challenges and opportunities unique to the north, including climate resilience, infrastructure needs, and the role of technology in bridging geographic divides.

Whether you're an industry leader, researcher, policymaker, or community stakeholder, this session is your opportunity to engage with the future of Northern Australia. Discover how R&D is not just shaping economies but transforming lives. Join us and be part of the conversation that builds a prosperous, sustainable, and innovative north we can all be proud of.

I will be presenting on the Case Study outlined below as endorsed by the Indigenous partners below.

Rio Tinto engaged Palladium for an Options Study to explore agriculture and aquaculture interventions, aiming to reduce food insecurity and offer non-mining livelihoods. Palladium conducted an environmental analysis to hypothesise the post-mine environment for agribusiness or aquabusiness. The team reviewed ten investment options, narrowing them to three for a detailed value chain and financial assessment.

Based on this, three Indigenous corporations on the Gove Peninsula—Gumatj Corporation Ltd., Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation, and NEAL—committed to the Yolŋu Master Plan (YMP), a Yolŋu-owned agribusiness hub focused on local food production, bushfoods, and market gardens.

In 2024, Palladium executed the first horizon of the YMP, laying the groundwork for long-term economic resilience by assessing agricultural potential, evaluating community interest, identifying training opportunities, and securing the supply chain, ensuring economic empowerment with skills development.

Simultaneously, Palladium secured federal investment, engaged four banks for financing, and developed a pitch deck to attract investors. Building on this, the Indigenous corporations are advancing a Yolŋu-led operation in 2025, ensuring sustained economic empowerment and food security beyond the life of the mine.

"Palladium has played a critical role in supporting the Yolŋu Master Plan by providing the strategic expertise needed to turn vision into action. Their work in assessing agribusiness opportunities, developing a detailed Financial Model, and aligning agricultural initiatives with Yolŋu cultural and environmental priorities has enabled Indigenous corporations—Gumatj, Rirratjingu, and NEAL—to make informed, commercially viable decisions. By integrating learning and training into the framework, Palladium has ensured that economic empowerment goes hand-in-hand with skills development. Their support has laid the foundation for a sustainable, post-mining economy that strengthens food security, drives economic diversification, and ensures long-term prosperity for Yolŋu people." CEOs of Gumatj, Rirratjingu, and NEAL Corporations.

Northern Australia has experienced an unprecedented surge in female workforce participation over the past decade, dramatically outpacing national trends. This transformation has been particularly pronounced in the Cairns region, where female employment growth exceeds national rates by 150%, fundamentally reshaping the region's labour market dynamics.
While both national and state levels have seen increased female participation, the scale of change in the North has been remarkable. Cairns' overall labour force participation has grown at more than triple the national average, with women accounting for 70% of this growth. This stands in contrast to Townsville, which, while also experiencing significant female-driven growth, shows distinctly different patterns in its labour force evolution.
The surge in female participation has been primarily driven by expansion in traditionally female-dominated sectors. Healthcare and Social Assistance, along with Education and Training, have emerged as key employment generators in the Cairns region. This sectoral growth has created new opportunities and changed the composition of the local workforce.
These transformative changes in Northern Australia's labour force have significant implications for the future. Policymakers face new challenges in infrastructure planning and service provision to support this expanded workforce. Employers must adapt their strategies to attract and retain female talent, particularly in workplace flexibility and professional development. The sustained growth in female participation also suggests a need for enhanced childcare services and family-friendly workplace policies.
Looking ahead, these changes signal a permanent shift in the North's labour force composition. This evolution requires strategic responses from both government and industry to ensure the region can fully leverage its expanding talent pool while supporting sustainable workforce participation. Understanding and adapting to these demographic shifts will be crucial for the North's continued economic development and competitiveness.

The Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA), established in 1972, is one of Australia's largest and oldest Indigenous-owned corporations. ALPA's mission is to enhance the social and economic well-being of its members and communities in Arnhem Land. Key aspects of ALPA include remote retailing, community services, enterprise and economic development, and cultural preservation. These efforts focus on job creation, skill development, and building a sustainable economy in Indigenous communities.

Nation-building is crucial for self-determination, economic development, and cultural revitalization. It empowers Indigenous communities to govern themselves, fosters local economies, and supports the preservation of Indigenous cultures. Indigenous leadership is essential for effective governance, positive social outcomes, and serving as role models and mentors for younger generations. ALPA values and reflects this on our board, inviting emerging leaders to sit on our board and learn how to govern and support their communities.

ALPA's history reflects its commitment to addressing economic and social challenges in Indigenous communities. Initially focused on retail stores, ALPA has expanded to include a wide range of community development programs. Its mission encompasses economic development, community services, cultural preservation, and empowerment.

Key programs and initiatives include providing food security and jobs through retail stores, partnering with local Yolngu families in joint ventures, and owning enterprise businesses across East Arnhem Land. Community services programs include the Community Development Program, a registered training organization, the East Arnhem Youth Model and Advocacy.

Nation-building through community services involves economic development and sustainability initiatives, impacting local infrastructure and services. ALPA's approach to fostering local Indigenous leadership includes training, capacity-building programs, mentorship, and support for emerging leaders. Challenges faced by ALPA include geographic and logistical challenges and socio-economic barriers, while opportunities for growth include expanding programs and strengthening partnerships with government and other organizations.

Following a routine blast on November 9th, 2017, at the Dawson Mine in Central Queensland, significant cracks appeared in Gibihi Road, the main route connecting the mine to Moura. The immediate closure of the road by local authorities affected numerous community members, including primary producers, mail services, and school buses.
Three weeks after the incident, Anglo American conducted a town hall meeting attended by over 400 Moura residents. This highly charged meeting brought to light deep-seated grievances within the community, not only concerning the road but also related to historical issues with previous mine owners.
Recognizing the necessity of rebuilding trust to mitigate the negativity among key stakeholders and the host community, Anglo American sought to regain a social license to operate and grow. The concept of a social license, which emerged in the mid-nineties within the mining industry, refers to the ongoing acceptance and approval of a mining development by local community members and other stakeholders who can impact its profitability. Research by Moffat and Zhang (2013) underscored the importance of establishing trust with local communities, highlighting that negative operational impacts can significantly influence community acceptance through perceived company trustworthiness.
Consequently, Anglo American undertook a comprehensive overhaul of its social performance system. Central to this system is the Community Reference Forum (CRF), designed to ensure that impacted stakeholders have a voice in decision-making processes. Additionally, the CRF facilitates the identification of impacts, the fair and transparent handling of grievances and complaints, and the continuous monitoring and evaluation of the system's efficacy.
This case study offers some salient lessons for emerging industries. The coal seam gas industry had to learn it’s own lessons after failing to take on board the lessons of the coal industry but this should not be the case for others such as the renewable energy industry.

Australian agriculture research and development agencies seek to increase adoption by farmers of new technologies and practices through extension and communication programs.
Creative non-fiction (CNF) storytelling techniques have proved effective in other industries but are not widely used in agriculture.
Research interviews with agriculture extension practitioners and research communicators from across Australia revealed a belief that CNF storytelling techniques would enhance farmer adoption of new technologies and practices and could be applied in a wide range of situations. If adopted, this could accelerate improvement in Northern Australian agricultural practices.
However, interviewees also identified barriers preventing the technique being used including institutional and cultural norms which preferance objective information over subjective or creative expression of knowledge and experiences.
Focus groups with senior extension program managers revealed a willingness to overcome institutional barriers through internal education and culture change initiatives. The focus groups also identified pathways for how and when extension and communications programs could implement CNF storytelling for maximum impact.

Over the past decade, consumer research has consistently highlighted critical procurement issues and evolving government priorities in addressing telecommunications challenges in regional, rural, and remote (RRR) Australia. Single supplier contracts within State government procurement protocols prevent entities such as schools, health centres, hospitals, and police stations from being connected to the best-suited technology for their specific needs. Contracting constraints lead to the adoption of limited and often inferior technologies or plans, resulting in public services not being connected to the best available place-based technology solutions.
Additionally, government housing in remote areas faces significant challenges in getting approval for fixed internet connections due to procurement issues. Procurement issues directly impact the quality of public services and the safety of residents, underscoring the need for streamlined and efficient procurement processes that prioritize consumer needs, especially in critical sectors like healthcare, education, and safety.
In RRR regions, government investment often occurs without community engagement, does not meet place or needs-based approaches, and lacks strategic planning and oversight. Place/needs-based regional connectivity planning is central to meeting RRR consumers' needs for improved access, telecommunications guarantee, and accountability. A proactive approach that includes establishing a national strategic framework with performance measures, improving procurement processes across all government levels, and enhancing consumer protections is needed.
Navigating short-term funding and government election cycles presents unique challenges for achieving sustainable, transformative social impact in RRR telecommunications. By aligning short-term funding initiatives with long-term strategic goals and ensuring consistent stakeholder participation, it is possible to create a resilient and adaptable telecommunications infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of RRR Australia. This approach not only addresses immediate connectivity issues but also lays the foundation for sustainable, transformative social impact that can withstand the fluctuations of government election cycles.

This presentation examines the opportunities and challenges of private sector decarbonisation efforts in northern Western Australia, contrasting them with the costly and less effective taxpayer-funded initiatives led by the Western Australian State Government, which are primarily concentrated in the Southwest.
It highlights the Government’s substantial $5.4 billion investment across various projects, none of which have undergone an assessment of cost-effectiveness in terms of dollars per tonne of carbon mitigated. Additionally, only a small portion of this funding has been allocated to northern Australia.
In contrast, the private sector—particularly mining and iron ore processing companies—has proposed large-scale decarbonisation initiatives in northern Australia. These projects, backed by private investments worth tens of billions, have the potential to enhance company profitability, create new industrial opportunities in the north, and significantly reduce global carbon emissions. However, they are being hindered by excessive red tape and restrictive land tenure policies.
The presentation underscores the urgent need for a more proactive government approach to supporting indigenous land use agreements, streamlining land tenure processes, and expediting environmental and planning approvals for large-scale renewable energy projects. Such reforms would facilitate industrial expansion in northern centres like Port Hedland.
Finally, this presentation warns of the competitive threat posed by low-tax and less restrictive jurisdictions, emphasizing that Australia must act decisively to seize this opportunity before it is lost.

Imagine being a young person with nowhere to go at night. The world around you shuts down—shops close, services end, and suddenly, you’re left alone with nowhere to feel safe. This is the reality for many vulnerable youth.

That’s where SoulJam Youth Hubs comes in. A future initiative of the Namu Collective, an Indigenous Corporation committed to empowering young people, SoulJam aims to fill a critical gap—providing a safe space between 5 PM and 9 AM, when traditional services disappear.

This is when young people need us most. Not during the school day. Not between nine and five. But when the streets become their only option.

SoulJam will offer late-night activities, music, sports, and creative arts, but more than that—it will be a lifeline. A space where youth workers are on hand to listen, support, and guide. A place where young people can breathe, rest, and reset.

And in the morning, our work doesn’t stop. We’ll help reconnect youth with their families, education, and support services—creating pathways toward stability, belonging, and hope.

This isn’t just about keeping kids off the streets. It’s about changing lives. It’s about breaking cycles of crime, homelessness, and disconnection.

SoulJam is still just an idea—a vision—but it’s one that can transform communities. Because every young person deserves a safe place. Every young person deserves a future.

And that future begins at SoulJam.

Imagine being a young person with nowhere to go at night. The world around you shuts down—shops close, services end, and suddenly, you’re left alone with nowhere to feel safe. This is the reality for many vulnerable youth.

That’s where SoulJam Youth Hubs comes in. A future initiative of the Namu Collective, an Indigenous Corporation committed to empowering young people, SoulJam aims to fill a critical gap—providing a safe space between 5 PM and 9 AM, when traditional services disappear.

This is when young people need us most. Not during the school day. Not between nine and five. But when the streets become their only option.

SoulJam will offer late-night activities, music, sports, and creative arts, but more than that—it will be a lifeline. A space where youth workers are on hand to listen, support, and guide. A place where young people can breathe, rest, and reset.

And in the morning, our work doesn’t stop. We’ll help reconnect youth with their families, education, and support services—creating pathways toward stability, belonging, and hope.

This isn’t just about keeping kids off the streets. It’s about changing lives. It’s about breaking cycles of crime, homelessness, and disconnection.

SoulJam is still just an idea—a vision—but it’s one that can transform communities. Because every young person deserves a safe place. Every young person deserves a future.

And that future begins at SoulJam.

Community-Led Leadership: Strengthening Regional Futures
Strong leadership in regional and remote communities is vital for fostering resilience, innovation, and growth. The Leading in the Central West (LCW) Community Leadership Program is a volunteer-led initiative that has been developing and empowering local leaders across Central Western Queensland for nearly a decade.
Delivered in partnership with Vision21 and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), RAPID, Red Ridge, Local Regional councils, and business. LCW provides emerging and existing leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks to drive positive change in their communities. The annual three-day program, held in rotating towns, includes interactive workshops on:
• Leadership styles and self-awareness – Understanding personality types to enhance teamwork
• Navigating change – Adapting to regional challenges with confidence
• Values-based leadership – Aligning leadership with community aspirations
• Effective communication – Strengthening relationships across sectors
• Understanding Community-Led Development – Exploring the power of community-driven action and how local leadership fosters lasting change
Beyond LCW, BlueWren Connections has been instrumental in designing and delivering other community-led leadership programs, including Greater Whitsunday, JCU Drought Hub, and Red Earth Community Leadership Program. These initiatives have strengthened leadership pipelines, enhanced cross-sector collaboration, and empowered local leaders to shape their communities' futures.
Key Takeaways for Attendees:
1. Why community-driven leadership programs are critical for regional resilience
2. How peer mentoring and networks sustain leadership beyond training
3. How cross-sector collaboration fosters regional innovation and economic growth
4. How leadership programs build confidence, enabling more people to step up and lead in their communities
5. The power of community-led development—how local leadership, shared purpose, and collective action create real and sustainable change

This session offers actionable insights into creating sustainable, locally led leadership programs, ensuring that regional communities across Northern Australia can thrive through strong, connected leadership.

The Northern Australian workforce faces distinct challenges—geographic isolation, skills shortages, and the need for operational efficiency. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers transformative solutions to these challenges, strengthening both front-of-house (FOH) and back-of-house (BOH) functions across industries. This presentation will explore how AI can nurture education, enhance workforce capability, and shape a dynamic workforce for the North.

Key areas covered will include:

AI for Front-of-House (FOH) Teaching and Learning – How AI-driven platforms can enhance lesson planning, personalise learning experiences, and build metacognitive strategies to support student success.

AI for Back-of-House (BOH) Educational Efficiency – How AI tools streamline administrative processes, automate assessments, and support teachers in creating high-quality, data-driven learning experiences.

AI for Workforce Development – How AI-driven teaching and learning activity plans, upskilling programs, and adaptive training tools can prepare Northern Australian workers for evolving job roles and industries.

By embracing AI, Northern Australia can nurture a more dynamic and future-ready workforce through education and training. This presentation will empower educators, business owners, and industry leaders with the knowledge to harness AI for improved teaching and learning outcomes.

Airport Development Group (ADG) is committed to advancing the Barkly region by enhancing critical infrastructure and supporting workforce development. Recognising the potential to upgrade Tennant Creek Airport and establish key worker accommodation can unlock economic opportunities, enabling industries such as energy, mining, and resources to invest with confidence in Central Australia. By working collaboratively with government and community leadership, ADG understands the potential to drive a sustainable transition where Tennant Creek thrives as a hub of investment, jobs, and long-term economic growth.

A modernised airport is essential to supporting increased passenger and freight movements, strengthening regional connectivity, and providing businesses with reliable access to markets and services. In partnership with government, upgraded facilities can serve as a catalyst for economic diversification, supporting local businesses and attracting new investment. The establishment of workforce accommodation will provide essential housing for skilled workers, addressing a key challenge that currently limits growth in the region.

Beyond infrastructure, ADG is committed to fostering workforce participation and skills development. A key initiative in this regard is the expansion of ADG’s Indigenous Training Academy (ITA), currently operating in Darwin, to Tennant Creek. The ITA provides training and employment pathways for young Indigenous people, equipping them with the skills needed to build meaningful careers. By replicating this successful model in Tennant Creek, ADG will support Indigenous youth in the Barkly region to further their education, gain employment, and contribute to the local economy.

ADG’s investment in Tennant Creek will be meaningful and impactful. By working with government, industry, and the local community, ADG recognises this will deliver long-term economic benefits; enhancing liveability, create opportunities, and position Tennant Creek as a key driver of growth in Northern Australia.

Agricultural development is crucial for the growth of Northern Australia, but it often poses risks to freshwater ecosystems. Maintaining healthy populations of threatened species, such as sawfish, and sustaining fisheries requires balancing agricultural expansion with sustainable water quality management. Establishing effective water quality criteria involves understanding the links between water quality parameters and ecological outcomes. This study focuses on the Keep River in northern Western Australia, a critical habitat for threatened sawfish and a receiving environment for runoff from the expanding Ord River Irrigation Area, which plans up to 50,000 hectares of irrigated crops. While water quality monitoring in the catchment is well-established, ecological assessments are limited. Algal growth, a key indicator of ecological health, was assessed using remote sensing imagery to provide an independent and long-term ecological record. The study evaluated whether relationships between recent agricultural development, in-stream water quality monitoring, and remotely sensed algal growth could inform better agricultural management strategies that protect ecological health. The results revealed highly site-specific relationships, indicating that generic water quality criteria may not be suitable. Additionally, remote sensing demonstrated potential for predicting water quality in unmonitored areas, offering a valuable tool for managing remote and inaccessible regions of Northern Australia. This approach could guide the development of ecologically relevant nutrient targets, helping land managers and policymakers balance agricultural productivity with freshwater ecosystem conservation.

In regions of Northern Australia where up to 70% of residents identify as First Nations Peoples of Australia, digital health resources must serve individuals, health practitioners and communities effectively. Despite good intentions, digital health promotion tools often do not align with cultural needs and health literacy levels.

Our study examines this critical intersection of culture, health, and technology.

Led by First Nations health professionals Maci Polley and Tracy Hardy, our research team conducted a comprehensive evaluation of online nutrition resources for chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevention and management specifically targeting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Using a mixed-methods approach, we uncovered significant gaps in cultural appropriateness and accessibility.

Our findings revealed concerning statistics: the average cultural appropriateness score was just 9.2/18 against the AIATSIS framework, while nearly half of the resources exceeded recommended readability thresholds. Through qualitative analysis, we identified actionable opportunities to enhance cultural safety and relevance in these vital health resources.

This presentation will share:
• Key insights from our evaluation of 18 online CKD nutrition resources
• Real examples of cultural disconnects that undermine resource effectiveness
• Practical recommendations for developing truly culturally appropriate digital health content
• Strategies for balancing technical health information with cultural relevance and accessibility

Our research carries profound implications for Northern Australia's healthcare landscape, where chronic disease management intersects with cultural identity and digital access. By improving the cultural appropriateness of online health resources, we can better support First Nations communities in preventing and managing CKD while respecting their knowledge systems and cultural contexts.

Join us to explore how digital health tools can be transformed from potential barriers to powerful enablers of health equity for First Nations Peoples across Northern Australia.

In regions of Northern Australia where up to 70% of residents identify as First Nations Peoples of Australia, digital health resources must serve individuals, health practitioners and communities effectively. Despite good intentions, digital health promotion tools often do not align with cultural needs and health literacy levels.

Our study examines this critical intersection of culture, health, and technology.

Led by First Nations health professionals Maci Polley and Tracy Hardy, our research team conducted a comprehensive evaluation of online nutrition resources for chronic kidney disease (CKD) prevention and management specifically targeting Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Using a mixed-methods approach, we uncovered significant gaps in cultural appropriateness and accessibility.

Our findings revealed concerning statistics: the average cultural appropriateness score was just 9.2/18 against the AIATSIS framework, while nearly half of the resources exceeded recommended readability thresholds. Through qualitative analysis, we identified actionable opportunities to enhance cultural safety and relevance in these vital health resources.

This presentation will share:
• Key insights from our evaluation of 18 online CKD nutrition resources
• Real examples of cultural disconnects that undermine resource effectiveness
• Practical recommendations for developing truly culturally appropriate digital health content
• Strategies for balancing technical health information with cultural relevance and accessibility

Our research carries profound implications for Northern Australia's healthcare landscape, where chronic disease management intersects with cultural identity and digital access. By improving the cultural appropriateness of online health resources, we can better support First Nations communities in preventing and managing CKD while respecting their knowledge systems and cultural contexts.

Join us to explore how digital health tools can be transformed from potential barriers to powerful enablers of health equity for First Nations Peoples across Northern Australia.

LiXiA: Advancing Innovative Infrastructure and Building Sovereign Capability in Northern Australia

We acknowledge and respect the Traditional Owners of the land, the original custodians whose deep knowledge of the landscape is invaluable. We recognise that their approval and engagement are paramount when deploying sensing technologies on Country, ensuring that our solutions align with Indigenous priorities and perspectives.

Northern Australia faces unique challenges in infrastructure management, from the impacts of climate change to the demands of rapid regional development. LiXiA (Living Infrastructure through(X) Informatics and Analytics ) is an Australian start-up focused on addressing these challenges through innovative, fit-for-purpose sensing solutions and data-driven insights.

This presentation will provide an overview of LiXiA’s journey and work, highlighting key projects such as flash flood monitoring with WaterPUK sensors and AI-powered computer vision for water velocity and flood detection. Our work with the Cassowary Coast Regional Council exemplifies the practical impact of these solutions. We also highlight the PolePUK’s and LinePUK’s contributions to electrical safety, line monitoring, and asset management, with deployments with the UK’s largest electrical utility further demonstrating the versatility and reliability of our solutions.

At the heart of our vision is a commitment to onshoring the capability and capacity to design and manufacture high-tech electronics in Australia, with a focus on Northern Australia. By developing cost-effective, fit-for-purpose sensing technologies locally, we foster sovereign capability, create skilled jobs, and position the region as a leader in advanced electronics manufacturing.

This session invites stakeholders across industries, government, and communities to explore collaboration opportunities with LiXiA to support sustainable infrastructure in Northern Australia. Together, we can strengthen infrastructure resilience while positioning Northern Australia as a hub for innovation and sustainability.

The role of Historical Societies and local museums as a vehicle for government, businesses and corporations to fast track introduction to a region, has largely been overlooked when entertaining prospective interstate and international clients. Many cultures have deep connection to their history and heritage. Individuals may seek out experiences which have history and heritage on display in order to gain a "sense" of a place first, with local museums providing a valuable "soft diplomacy" introduction to a regions' cultural identity. By engaging with local cultural assets, visitors gain insight into the historical and contemporary community, which in turn provides a bridge for discussions to commence.
This paper will introduce the audience to the Cairns Museum and discuss the way the corporate and business community can use this local asset as a positive tool to commence partnerships and connect through history.

This presentation provides an overview of the role of local government in enabling other to flourish across the Pilbara.

Through the presentation of four (4) case studies, these examples highlight the importance of making sound business development strategy and arguments through business cases, grant programs and infrastructure investment.

The case studies will discuss
1) Collaboration in carbon reduction outcomes with industry
2) Empowering traditional owner youth through social investment and infrastructure delivery
3) The redevelopment of aviation infrastructure
4) Preparing for emerging tourism markets

“Building the System for Effective Indigenous Education in Northern Australia: Partnering for Success”

Studio Schools of Australia (SSA) began with a partnership between Wesley College Melbourne and the Bunuba peope of the Western Kimberley. In 2025, more than a decade after they opened the Yiramalay Studio School for Years 10-12, the Manjali Studio School is now operating, with students from Years 7 to 9. The educational model is based on partnership and an on-country boarding model, with Indigenous Language and Culture at its heart.
SSA is now a stand-alone entity, and the Australian Government's Department of Education has provided funding for Manjali. The aim is to help address the Closing the Gap target to increase the proportion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (age 20-24) attaining year 12 or equivalent qualification to 96 per cent.
Greater sharing of decision making with First Nations people is recognised as critical to success, and nowhere is this more important than education, where disparities persist. Education is the foundation for broader community resilience, yet it is often left off the development agenda. Education is recognised as the best investment in our nation's future, and in Northern Australia the need for better outcomes is clear.
The SSA and Bunuba journey will be told, sharing lessons learned and the need for more effective Indigenous education in Northern Australia.

Strategic cyber security investment is directly linked to firm productivity and profitability. A common misconception is that cyber security solutions are expensive and excessive, disrupt production and hinder operations. Cyber security investment is easily overlooked when everything is running smoothly, but during times of an incident or disaster, its value is highlighted. The indirect cost of a data breach causes business disruption (40%), information loss (29%), revenue loss (25%), productivity loss (29%) and equipment damage (4%). When a cyber-attack is malicious, on average, it takes business’ 51 days or 1224 hours to restore operations (Infrastructure Gov, 2024).
The DP World attack demonstrated how targeting major port operations can have a ripple effect across an entire supply chain. The 3-day incident resulted in a loss of $300 million AUD for businesses. The minerals and energy sector contributes 11.4% to Australia’s GDP (2024). Localised issues such as losing wireless connectivity between controllers and mining equipment, costs up to $1-500 million in daily revenue depending on size of operations. Such losses compound and risk $455 billion in annual revenue for the Australian economy (Diamond IT, 2024).

While achieving 100% security across all information systems and digital assets is unrealistic, technology is the backbone for business operations and implementing tailored cyber security solutions aligned with best practice can drive business growth and profitability. I present a cost-benefit analysis approach with anonymised data from a utility company to strategically prioritise cyber security solutions integrated across all critical assets-business-people. This method ensures a reliable, long-term defence against malicious actors that could harm firm reputation.

This workshop encourages participants to rethink employee wellbeing programs, co-designing evidence-based interventions. It explores sociometrics, examining how group behaviors affect individual wellbeing in the workplace. A key aspect of human flourishing is engagement and belonging at work, and key wellbeing factors like leadership, responsiveness, and 'nourishment' are analyzed. Participants then use design thinking to create micro-interventions for their businesses, to ensure that their ecosystems are retaining and attracting talent in our region.

Markets in remote Indigenous communities across Northern Australia are widely recognised as underperforming across multiple dimensions. Structural challenges—such as overcrowded housing, homelessness, and economic norms misaligned with community contexts—limit participation in mainstream economic models. Traditional policy interventions, such as employment training programs or increased investment, often fail to address these systemic barriers. However, Indigenous participation in cultural markets is already active and thriving, despite being largely informal and overlooked by conventional economic frameworks.
The Cultural Markets Systems Development project, led by Indigenous Connections in partnership with the Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) for Northern Australia, seeks to strengthen Indigenous-led cultural economies by reframing market engagement, improving industry structures, and fostering policy innovation. This initiative highlights the cultural economy as a dynamic sector where trade occurs daily, yet remains largely undervalued and unrecognised across over 15 individual formal markets.
This presentation will explore how financial institutions, government bodies, and industries can adapt their interactions with Indigenous communities to enable context-informed employment opportunities and more inclusive market structures. Key findings will demonstrate how aligning product offerings, policies, and digital engagement with situational forces in remote communities can unlock sustainable economic pathways while respecting cultural knowledge systems.
By shifting from Western economic norms to cultural economic norms through community-driven market solutions, this work aims to foster stronger Indigenous enterprises, enhanced market access, and a more equitable economic landscape. Attendees will gain insight into practical strategies for creating context informed economic participation and reconciliation and leveraging existing knowledge for country, culture, people and community.

Tellus is at the forefront of environmental remediation and hazardous waste management in Northern Australia, providing innovative solutions to some of the region’s most pressing challenges. This presentation will cover two critical initiatives that exemplify Tellus’ commitment to enhancing environmental sustainability and supporting economic development in the region.

Firstly, we will highlight Tellus’ partnership with NTEX to clean up hazardous materials in the Northern Territory, focusing on our work to remediate contaminated land in the Darwin region. This project, which involved the safe removal and disposal of highly contaminated soils, including PFAS, asbestos and pesticide residues, showcases Tellus’ ability to handle complex environmental challenges. We will discuss the logistics of managing these hazardous materials, the importance of harmonizing environmental legislation across Australia, and the vital role that sustainable remediation practices play in creating safer communities in the Northern Territory.

Secondly, we will provide an update on the Chandler project, Tellus’ vision for the world’s first multinational deep geological repository in Central Australia. This facility, located 120km south of Alice Springs, promises to revolutionise the permanent and safe disposal of hazardous chemical and low-level radioactive waste—not just for Australia but for the Asia Pacific region. After a strategic review conducted with Amentum, we will share insights into the technical feasibility, environmental impact, and community engagement efforts surrounding the project. We will also discuss how the Chandler facility aligns with Tellus’ commitment to long-term environmental stewardship and how it will create sustainable economic opportunities for the Northern Territory.

Through these projects, Tellus is not only addressing critical environmental issues but is also positioning Northern Australia as a leader in sustainable waste management and remediation. The Chandler project, in particular, promises to bring long-term benefits, including job creation and contributions to Australia’s transition to a green economy.

Building on Elise Gore’s presentation last year and her research into corporate social investment effectiveness, NFP House presents a solution. Her findings highlighted what truly drives impact and what misses the mark, uncovering the key dynamics at play.
This presentation will offer a clear, actionable recommendation, addressing the needs of not for profit organisations, empowering them to contribute to regional socio-economic development.
Why NFP House?
NFP House provides essential services to support volunteer reliant not for profits—the backbone of our communities. A core component is a structured framework that:
1. Assesses organisational needs
2. Builds capabilities in key areas
3. Measures and evidences impact through a Regional Report Card, showing funders actual areas of need
Additionally, NFP House provides a range of initiatives to support workplaces and community organisations, including skill-based and transition-to-retirement workplace volunteer programs, and a volunteer portal. These programs help organisations attract, retain, and sustain volunteers while fostering long-term financial independence beyond a welfare-based model.

To secure Australia's future, a paradigm shift in the integration of workforce development within regional economies is essential. Traditional models of workforce development have primarily focused on industry and government-led initiatives to address skills gaps. However, these approaches frequently operate in isolation from the foundational source of workforce supply—our schools. Despite decades of dialogue regarding the need to enhance school-industry engagement, a fundamental disconnect remains between the demands of industry and the capacity of educational delivery.

This results in limited uptake and fragmented workforce pathways. Schools are not seeking ‘plug-and-play’ solutions; they require comprehensive and replicable engagement frameworks that embed industry knowledge, real-time data, and authentic learning experiences within existing pedagogical structures. The demand from educators is unequivocal: there is a pressing need for structured industry partnerships that facilitate curriculum-integrated, experiential learning opportunities.
Addressing this challenge necessitates a multi-dimensional, approach encompassing the full spectrum of the community, region, industry, and education, a departure from mere rhetoric and a commitment to action-oriented engagement.

Instead of treating school-industry engagement as an external initiative, we must invert the model to ensure that schools are seamlessly integrated into regional workforce ecosystems, guaranteeing workforce development is not reactive to economic cycles but a sustained, community-driven endeavour.

While this discussion is rooted in the context of agriculture and associated sectors, its implications extend all industries critical to Northern Australia's economic future, responding to the specific demands of regional industries.
By adopting a school-centric workforce strategy, Northern Australia has the opportunity to develop a scalable and replicable model, ensuring that students transition aligns with regional needs. Through industry investment and local stakeholders driving sustainable engagement, this strategy endures policy cycles and funding fluctuations.

Ultimately, embedding schools as foundational epicenter's of workforce development will shift the conversation from reactive policy to a community-driven, actionable framework fostering systemic change.

To secure Australia's future, a paradigm shift in the integration of workforce development within regional economies is essential. Traditional models of workforce development have primarily focused on industry and government-led initiatives to address skills gaps. However, these approaches frequently operate in isolation from the foundational source of workforce supply—our schools. Despite decades of dialogue regarding the need to enhance school-industry engagement, a fundamental disconnect remains between the demands of industry and the capacity of educational delivery.
This results in limited uptake and fragmented workforce pathways. Schools are not seeking ‘plug-and-play’ solutions; they require comprehensive and replicable engagement frameworks that embed industry knowledge, real-time data, and authentic learning experiences within existing pedagogical structures. The demand from educators is unequivocal: there is a pressing need for structured industry partnerships that facilitate curriculum-integrated, experiential learning opportunities.
Addressing this challenge necessitates a multi-dimensional, approach encompassing the full spectrum of the community, region, industry, and education, a departure from mere rhetoric and a commitment to action-oriented engagement.
Instead of treating school-industry engagement as an external initiative, we must invert the model to ensure that schools are seamlessly integrated into regional workforce ecosystems, guaranteeing workforce development is not reactive to economic cycles but a sustained, community-driven endeavour.

While this discussion is rooted in the context of agriculture and associated sectors, its implications extend all industries critical to Northern Australia's economic future, responding to the specific demands of regional industries.
By adopting a school-centric workforce strategy, Northern Australia has the opportunity to develop a scalable and replicable model, ensuring that students transition aligns with regional needs. Through industry investment and local stakeholders driving sustainable engagement, this strategy endures policy cycles and funding fluctuations.
Ultimately, embedding schools as foundational epicenter's of workforce development will shift the conversation from reactive policy to a community-driven, actionable framework fostering systemic change.

This talk links with work we are doing with several teams, including John Fejo (Goondoi Rangers) and Dennis Fay (Salty Monkeys and the Marine Debris Task Force) who have made submissions to present.

Key content centres on emerging technologies and transforming Northern Australia’s remote communities.
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We will showcase some AI-powered drone projects which are helping recover cultural heritage sites, track sea turtle nests and feral animals. We will also show some drone mapping and AI analytics we are using to help indigenous ranger teams and the Marine Debris Task Force to detect and quantify marine debris in the Torres Strait.

The talk will also cover how Indigenous students and rangers are also gaining hands-on experience with robotics and data science through STEM programs and the Indigenous Australian Datathon - normalising high-tech skills and opening pathways to new jobs and enterprises​.

Finally, the talk will highlight the need for genuine partnerships with Indigenous groups to ensure cultural fit and long-term impact.​

Title: Bridging Culture and Innovation: Integrating Drones, Data, and Traditional Knowledge for Indigenous Leadership

Indigenous knowledge has guided the stewardship of our lands, waters, and communities for millennia. Today, emerging technologies—drones, AI, and data science—offer powerful tools to enhance this legacy while ensuring cultural and environmental preservation.

This presentation explores how drone technology, AI-driven environmental monitoring, and data analytics can be integrated with traditional Indigenous knowledge. As a Senior Ranger Coordinator for Goondoi, I work alongside KJR to train Indigenous communities in drone operations for land and waterway management. This empowers Traditional Owners to monitor Country, track environmental changes, and respond effectively to climate challenges.

My involvement in the Indigenous Australians Datathon further strengthens this bridge between data science and cultural knowledge. By harnessing Indigenous-led data storytelling, we ensure that traditional knowledge remains central to decision-making, rather than being sidelined in modern data-driven strategies.

A key focus is the Traditional-Led Drone Program, a groundbreaking traineeship and career pathway initiative. This program equips First Nations people with skills in drone piloting, data collection, and AI-driven analysis—ensuring they are not just participants in the tech industry, but leaders in data sovereignty.

Real-world case studies will illustrate the impact of this work, from monitoring sacred sites and preventing bushfires to tracking biodiversity and ecosystem health. The session will also explore the challenges and opportunities of merging modern technology with Indigenous ways of knowing.

By integrating Numuluk principles with technological advancements, we are shaping a future where cultural heritage, land stewardship, and innovation coexist. This session aims to inspire Indigenous leaders, researchers, and technologists to forge new collaborations—ensuring that both ancient wisdom and modern tools drive sustainable change, led by First Nations people, for First Nations Country and community.