Gladstone to host 2027 Developing Northern Australia Conference
Published on 06 August 2026
Gladstone Regional Council (GRC) and Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC) will welcome hundreds of delegates to the region next August when it hosts the 2027 Developing Northern Australia Conference.
As Northern Australia's leading forum focused on economic development, investment, innovation and regional collaboration, the conference brings together leaders from government, industry, business, First Nations organisations, research and community sectors to shape the future of the north.
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said hosting the conference at GECC will showcase Gladstone's economic strengths, innovation, investment potential and role as a key contributor to Northern Australia's future.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase why Gladstone is such an important strategic enabler for the future development of Northern Australia,” Mayor Burnett said.
“Our region is home to industry, infrastructure, energy and innovation and we are helping unlock opportunities across Northern Australia through our world-class port, emerging projects, advanced manufacturing capability and strong connections to global markets.
“Gladstone is playing a leading role in Australia's energy transformation and economic future, making it an ideal location to bring together the leaders, investors and innovators shaping the next chapter of Northern Australia's development.
“We’ve also got runs on the board having successfully hosted major conferences in the past, including the 2023 and 2017 LGAQ Annual Conferences, as well as other major events and conferences that have brought in delegates from across the country.
“We look forward to welcoming delegates from across Australia and showcasing the people, partnerships, infrastructure and industries that make Gladstone a key contributor to the prosperity and future development of Northern Australia.”
IMAGE: Kristy Marks (GRC Manager Economic Development), Carly Quinn (GRC General Manager People and Strategy), Cr Simon McClintock, Leisa Dowling (GRC Chief Executive Officer) and Donna Mauchline (GECC Destination and Events Specialist) at the 2026 Developing Northern Australia Conference.
The 2027 conference will be the 13th since its inception in 2015, with Gladstone the southern-most city to host the event.
This year’s conference (5-7 August) is being held in Alice Springs for the second time.
It has previously been held in other major cities including Townsville, Cairns, Darwin, Karratha and Rockhampton.