Regional Development Australia Murray will host the Regional Futures Forum 2026 in Albury on 26–27 March, bringing together more than 200 regional leaders, innovators and changemakers for two days of collaboration and practical action.
Hosted at the Charles Sturt University Albury-Wodonga campus – an 87-hectare landscape of native bushland and wetlands – the Forum is designed to spark new ideas and accelerate the projects, policies and partnerships that matter for thriving regional communities. Participants will explore the big issues shaping the future: productivity, workforce, energy transition, AI adoption, innovation and sustainability.
Featured speakers
The 2026 program brings together some of Australia’s most respected voices in regional development, leadership and innovation.
Bernard Salt AM
Demographer, author and Managing Director of The Demographics Group, Bernard Salt brings decades of insight into population trends and the social and economic forces reshaping regional Australia.
Cathy McGowan AO
A pioneer of community-led politics, Cathy McGowan transformed national conversations on integrity, localism and regional empowerment during her time as the independent MP for Indi. Her work continues to inspire stronger civic participation across the regions.
Liz Ritchie
The CEO of the Regional Australia Institute, Liz Ritchie is one of the country’s most influential advocates for regional prosperity. Raised in Deniliquin, she brings deep knowledge and practical experience across the corporate, government and not-for-profit sectors.
Ben Finkel
As lead of the Australian Regional AI Network, Ben Finkel helps producers, advisors and agribusinesses adopt practical, ethical AI solutions. His work bridges strategy, technology and on-the-ground impact across agriculture, logistics and regional industries.
More speakers and sessions will be announced in the coming months.
A forum built for collaboration
The Regional Futures Forum 2026 is intentionally structured for impact. Attendees will have the opportunity to form connections, develop shared priorities and contribute to a collective vision for sustainable regional growth. The focus is not just on discussion, but on turning insights into action.
Event details
📅 26–27 March 2026
📍 Charles Sturt University Albury-Wodonga campus
The venue has been chosen for its strong sustainability credentials and its role as a regional innovation hub. Accommodation offers and exclusive attendee discounts are available via the event website.
Early bird tickets now available
Places at the Forum are strictly limited. Early bird tickets are now available and expected to sell quickly. This is a rare opportunity for regional leaders, decision-makers and practitioners to shape national conversations from a regional perspective.
Book your early bird ticket today and help set the direction for the future of regional Australia. Book here.