News & Events

The Economy We Could Have – Webinar

Join us for a national webinar exploring what a values-led economy could look like — and how we get there.

Navigating the energy transition in 2026 

Saideh Kent leads The Next Economy’s energy work. In this Q&A she shares her thoughts on what shaped the transition in 2025, how communities are responding, and what lessons can be learned for the year ahead. 

What does ‘good’ look like for our regions in 2026? 

2025 brought with it a rush of policy announcements.  Here at The Next Economy, we’re reflecting on what we’ve learnt through our work with regions and how they can continue to manage change well in 2026 and beyond. 

Walking Together: Building Indigenous Business in Northern Australia

A new report by Esparq Ventures, co-authored with The Next Economy. Esparq Ventures is working with Indigenous entrepreneurs across northern Australia to grow successful businesses grounded in culture, community and self-determination.

Walking Together: A conversation with Darryl French-Majid, CEO of Esparq Ventures

Esparq Ventures is helping Indigenous entrepreneurs in northern Australia turn ideas into businesses that create jobs and strengthen communities. Its founder, Darryl French-Majid, reflects on the journey, the challenges, and what success means for them.

Nature, people and place: why Australia’s environmental laws are critical for regions 

Australia is rewriting its national environmental laws in response to widespread recognition that the current system is failing both nature and communities. In our submission to the reform process, we shared what we’ve heard from regional Australians around how to make these laws work for people, place and the environment.

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.

Making renewables work for communities: the critical role of Councils

The Next Economy is mapping how Councils contribute at each stage of the development pathway to secure long-term community benefits.

Building Hay’s future together: early insights from the economic transition roadmap

The Next Economy and Hay Shire Council have been working side by side with the local community to better understand how Hay’s economy works today and what it will take to secure a stronger future.