A group sitting around table discussing maps as part of the Hay and Carrathool shire workshops in April 2024

Regional communities are vital to Australia’s net zero transition. From new industrial infrastructure to workforce and population change, regions are bearing the brunt of change.

Significant change brings great risks and opportunities. Australia can set the standards that will address the challenges of the net zero transition in ways that transform our economy for the better.

The Next Economy works with communities, industries, and governments to build broad support for the transition and expand the boundaries of what Australians can imagine and achieve during the transition to net zero. 

The Next Economy has the experience, relationships, and understanding of regional economic resilience to support the creation of the next economy that works for everyone.

Latest News & Events

Reports

8 October 2025

The Economy We Could Have: new paper out now

Australia’s economy looks strong on the surface, but behind the averages lie deep divides in housing, work, health and opportunity. Our new paper, The Economy We Could Have, asks what our economy is really designed to do, who it is working for, and how can it support people’s wellbeing.

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News

10 September 2025

New partnership to advance economic justice

Shared with permission from Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation – New partnership to advance economic justice Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation and economic development agency The Next Economy have announced a significant multi-year partnership to advance […]

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News
Reports

4 August 2025

Time to strike a good deal for communities hosting renewables 

Our Striking a New Deal partners FRRR and Projects JSA have released a new report showing how regional communities can secure a fairer deal from large-scale renewables.

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News

28 May 2025

Community first for Uralla Shire

The Next Economy and Uralla Shire Council in NSW are teaming up to help the region navigate change and ensure renewable energy development delivers lasting benefits for the community.

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Impacts and achievements

Since 2018, The Next Economy has partnered with regions holding the key to Australia’s transition to net zero emissions.

We have helped create the conditions for systems-level change by demonstrating how it is possible to manage change in ways that strengthen social, economic and environmental outcomes.

We have supported leaders across government, industry and community organisations to manage the impacts of the transition to net zero and a changing climate.

By sharing what we learn, we have supported evidence-based decision making and encouraged broader public support. Together, this has helped build momentum for a rapid, responsible and fair transition.