Leading the Way in Advancing our Northern Regions


The Developing Northern Australia Conference continues to grow every year, along with the national momentum for achieving better economic, social, and environmental outcomes for the north and its people.

It is that one regular opportunity for northern Australians and their supporters from across the nation and the world to come together to celebrate progress and refine strategic efforts.

It’s the place where multiple connections are made east to west, north to south, and from the north to the wider world. It is also the place where deals are done and where partnerships for business, research, investment, and problem-solving emerge.

Importantly, it also enables strong Indigenous and other important voices from across the north to come together to share stories across diverse themes such as investment, health, defence, workforce and industry development and natural resource management.

The conference also provides the premier annual opportunity for everyone to have a real input into the policy and program thinking of the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments.

About the Conference

Now in its 8th year, the Developing Northern Australia Conference is closely aligned with, but independent from, the Australian Government’s ‘Our North, Our Future: White Paper on Developing Northern Australia’.

Released in 2015, this 20-year plan was created to drive growth, investment, and support in northern Australia through the key pillars:

  • Global Positioning – Security, Defence & Space

  • Next Generation Agriculture & Water

  • Energy & Resources

  • Enabling Infrastructure

  • Liveability, Affordability And Workforce

  • Mobilising Indigenous-Led Development

  • Reaching Further North - Business, Trade And Investment

  • Tourism And Environmental Service Markets

  • A Vision Of A Sustainable And Inclusive Northern Australia

Each year, this conference offers attendees the opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced with each pillar and reflect upon progress being made in each industry. It has a major influence of policy and program development, investment attraction and problem-solving.

In 2022, we will be exploring the theme "A Lead on Inclusive Development for the 21st Century."

The Venue

The 2022 Developing Northern Australia Conference will be held at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) from Wednesday 6 July - Friday 8 July 2022.

The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) is the largest convention and banqueting facility between Cairns and Brisbane, Australia. It's also the Mackay region’s premier entertainment and performing arts venue. From business events to ballet, the venue is versatile, modern and within walking distance of numerous restaurants, bars and accommodation in Mackay’s City Centre.

⚡️ SPECIAL OFFER

Use code INDUSTRYEVENTS to receive a 5% discount on in-person or virtual registrations!