Transforming Hunter’s Economy — Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow

The Hunter economy is transforming. Building on its industrial heritage and strategic assets, the Hunter is poised to continue its role as a leading economic region for Australia. But how do we leverage the existing capabilities to drive further economic growth, and support employment transition for the new economy?

At our July event, (8^th July 2026), we will examine the Hunter economy in the context of its industrial heritage and discuss the opportunities for economic transformation. Bob Hawes is Chief Executive Officer of Business Hunter — the largest regional peak business group in Australia. Bob will outline the opportunities for economic transformation in the Hunter, with a focus on priority projects and zones. 

Tim Owen, Chair of the Hunter Defence Task Force advocates at the highest levels of government for opportunities for economic growth in defence industries. Tim will outline the current and future initiatives in defence industry to support the economic transformation in the Hunter.

Together they will discuss key opportunities across defence, hydrogen, energy to waste and chemical processing. These opportunities will require growth in and changing nature of the workforce, requiring partnerships to support the transition to the new economy.