National conference to encourage dialogue about economic resilience

Liverpool will be the proud host city of Economic Development Australia (EDA)’s flagship annual event, NEDC20, to run from 18 – 20 November as scheduled.

The 2020 theme, Breaking New Ground – Building a Resilient Future, will weave together innovative thinking around how economic development professionals can lead recovery, build resilience and transform local economies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller said the National Economic Development Conference (NEDC) Organising Committee has an ambitious plan to deliver a quality program with global relevance.

“The NEDC20 theme is front of mind for the economic development sector. EDA and Liverpool City Council are ready to deliver this conference as a hybrid event with face-to-face and virtual registration options,” Mayor Waller said.

“NEDC20 will include a compelling program of highly regarded speakers whose knowledge and expertise will challenge delegates, and encourage robust dialogue as we continue to navigate this challenging period and develop ways to rebuild regional economies across Australia.”

EDA CEO Jacqueline Brinkman said growth in and around Sydney’s third CBD would be of benefit to the national economy.

“Liverpool is the ideal city to be hosting Australia’s largest gathering of economic development professionals. Fuelled by unprecedented development and investment, this city will play a key role in Australia’s economic recovery,” Ms Brinkman said.

Speakers confirmed to date include:

Mayor Waller said: “As Sydney’s third CBD, the gateway city to Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport and the home of the Liverpool Innovation Precinct, Liverpool is the perfect backdrop for Australia’s national gathering of economic development leaders.

“As Mayor of a fast-growing and culturally diverse city, I understand first-hand the importance of collaboration and investment to build resilience and support economic recovery, and Council has led by supporting our affected businesses.”

NEDC20 will feature two full days of informative and interactive sessions, trade exhibitions and a choice of study tour, with EDA’s National Economic Development Awards for Excellence to be announced at a cocktail function, as well as opportunities for business and professional networking. NEDC20 will be streamed live to delegates unable to attend in person.

“The NEDC Organising Committee is now calling on economic development professionals across the country to register their interest to attend or deliver a presentation related to the conference theme,” Mayor Waller said.

“NEDC20 also provides a unique opportunity to promote your business to the economic development leaders of Australia through sponsorship, raising your company profile and helping to develop or strengthen strategic partnerships.”

The conference will be held from 18 – 20 November 2020 at The William Inglis Hotel, Warwick Farm, a short distance from the vibrant Liverpool city centre.

Special accommodation rates are available to delegates and early-bird registration is available until 31 August.

Visit www.edaconference.com.au for registration and sponsorship information, and to submit an abstract by 30 June if you are an economic development professional interested in delivering a presentation related to the conference theme.

The NEDC Organising Committee continues to closely monitor the situation surrounding COVID-19 to ensure necessary measures are taken for the health and wellbeing of conference delegates.