Regions Rising 2019 – calling regional leaders
The Regional Australia Institute (RAI) has issued a call to regional leaders across the country to make sure they have a seat at the table at the inaugural Regions Rising National Summit in Canberra on 4-5 April.
The theme of this year’s Canberra summit is Regional Futures, with topics to include Regional Jobs, Population and Migration, Health, and Education.
RAI co-CEO Liz Ritchie says with a federal election looming, the timing is perfect to engage and pursue a new future for regional Australians.
“This is the first time the RAI has convened its stakeholders through a National Summit. It’s more than a conference, it’s a call to action,” Liz Ritchie said.
“Practically, day one is an opportunity to educate, engage and inform, whilst seeking ideas and input through the policy hack; and day two is a Regional Policy Masterclass to learn how to best influence and agitate for change.
“If you’re interested in making a difference in your region, this Summit is not to be missed,” Ms Ritchie said.
Headlining the event is the Deputy Prime Minister, The Hon. Michael McCormack MP who will provide his vision for Regional Australia. He will also launch the RAI’s report on The Future of Regional Jobs, which is part of a broader national campaign.
Marnie Baker, CEO of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank will be a keynote speaker addressing the importance of community ownership and activation to enact the kind of future they desire.
Speakers also include Shadow Minister for Regional Services and Communications, The Hon. Stephen Jones MP; well-known economist, Nick Gruen; former Premier of Victoria, Dr Denis Napthine; author of Rusted Off, Gabrielle Chan; Vice Chancellor and President of Federation University, Professor Helen Bartlett; and the Chair of Regional Universities Network, as well as Chair of Regional Capitals Australia, Samantha McIntosh.
A full list of speakers is now available on the RAI website regionsrising.regionalaustralia.org.au/canberra.
“There are more than 9 million people living in regional Australia; and as we know, every community is different. But we all have some similar challenges relating to jobs, population mobility, infrastructure, health and education,” Liz Ritchie said.
“This event will provide a national platform for regional leaders to engage directly with key decision makers on important opportunities and challenges facing their regions,” Ms Ritchie said.
The key regional themes will be presented through an interactive “policy hacking” session on 4 April. The outcome will be a plan of action that will be delivered to both sides of government to consider in the future.
The Regional Policy Masterclass on 5 April will provide an opportunity for policy makers and regional leaders to examine and understand best practice in policy development. High level and experienced speakers will share their insights for advancing policy in Australia.
Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss this opportunity. Register here.
For more information about the Regions Rising events series, please go to regionsrising.regionalaustralia.org.au or phone 02 6260 3733.
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