Work category: News

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 happened in 2025 that shaped the direction of the energy transition? 

This year brought some big shifts. The change of government in Queensland led to a different approach to energy policy, which has affected things like the pace of investment. In some cases, approvals were reversed or delayed. That created uncertainty for communities and project developers alike and reminded everyone how important consistent policy is for long term planning. 

One thing that stands out is how communities are becoming more involved in shaping outcomes. There is growing recognition of the importance of community benefit and social impact and we are seeing councils and local groups step in early. That is a positive sign, but many of them are still doing it without a clear process or enough support. 

There has also been some mixed messaging nationally around net zero, which made things harder for people trying to understand what is happening. The National Climate Risk Assessment helped bring clarity. It gave people something solid to refer to and set out clearly why action is needed. 

What is coming through in your conversations with regional communities? 

What we are seeing is that every place is different. The transition looks and feels different depending on where you are. Some regions are preparing for coal closures. Others are experiencing rapid growth in renewables. Many are dealing with both at once. And the resources available to manage change vary widely. 

But there is a clear sense of local leadership emerging. People are asking thoughtful questions about how this will affect their community and they are stepping into the conversation. There is strong appetite to engage, but also a need for more support to navigate the scale and speed of change. 

People want trustworthy information and space to plan properly. That is something we can support. When communities have the tools and time to get involved early, they can play a powerful role in shaping how things unfold. 

Meeting people where they’re at: speaking with Uralla locals about energy at their winter solstice.

How are regional leaders navigating the energy transition? 

What we are seeing across the board is commitment. Councils, community groups, Traditional Owners, local businesses and regional development agencies are working hard to bring people together and plan for what is coming. They are balancing short term, real-time pressures with planning for the long term and they are doing it with limited resources. 

They are also pushing for a greater say in decision making – continuing to call for place based approaches that engage people early and provide local people with an opportunity to inform actions that reflect local realities. People want to be partners in this transition, not just consulted after the fact. 

What we know through our work, is they when regional leaders are provided with the resources and support they need to lead and manage change well, the outcomes are better for everyone – this includes, but is not limited to, better coordination and stronger backing.  

Are there places where the transition is already going well? 

Yes, and those examples are really encouraging. In Mount Isa and Uralla Shire, for instance, councils have worked with communities and industry to plan early, developing roadmaps for the energy transition and broader economic change in their regions, that are grounded in the realities of each region.  

Those places are showing what is possible when you bring people together around a shared vision. They are looking at energy as part of a wider picture, including jobs, housing, infrastructure and services. 

Even in places facing significant pressure in real-time, such as Hay and the Hunter region in New South Wales or Gladstone in Queensland – there is creative thinking and action underway. Communities are not sitting back waiting for others to lead the way – they are building local partnerships, trialling new approaches and looking ahead on their own terms. 

At the Roma saleyards, connecting local history with the work of planning well for change in South West Queensland. Credit: Lyndsay Walsh. 

What is most needed now as we head into 2026? 

In Australia, the energy transition is well underway. It sometimes feels like we talk about is as though it is something that will happen in the future, not something that is happening right now.  We are well into implementation so need to shift from reacting to leading – building on the knowledge, resources and capabilities that have been developed across different regions over the last 10 years – to give regions the tools, information and support they need to plan, make informed decisions and take action.   

This also means being honest about the scale of the change required, the very real impacts and trade-offs and giving people space to shape it on their own terms. 

There is still a clear need for national frameworks that provide clarity and certainty as well as support good practice around engagement, benefit sharing and accountability. But they need to be flexible enough to work in different contexts. 

Most of all, we need to stay focused on what matters to people. This is not just about infrastructure or energy supply. It is about livelihoods, community wellbeing and the future of our regions. If we keep that at the centre and back the strengths that already exist in these places, we have every chance of making this transition work for everyone. 

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. 

Last year brought a flurry of action on climate and nature. We saw the release of Australia’s first National Climate Risk Assessment, long-awaited reforms to environmental laws, and new national and state strategies for energy, industry and regional investment – alongside a range of net zero sector plans. What matters now is how these policies are resourced and rolled out in practice, and whether they lead to the kind of meaningful change that regional communities have been calling for.

Regions are often on the frontline of change: whether that’s shifting industry policy, rising climate risk, or new infrastructure investment. They are also home to a wealth of knowledge, capacity and strategic value. From critical minerals to renewable energy zones, from agricultural production to local manufacturing, regional communities are central to many of the systems that shape our economy. 

But while the stakes are high, regional communities are not always given the time, attention or resources they need to engage with and influence these changes. That’s a risk not only for regional wellbeing, but for the success of plans and strategies to transition the Australian economy itself. 

The Next Economy facilitating stakeholder discussions in the Latrobe Valley, a region planning for significant change. These workshops were hosted by the Net Zero Economy Authority and Regional Development Victoria. Credit: Saideh Kent.

What outcomes can development deliver for regional communities when it’s done well? 

Our work is guided by a simple question: what does ‘good’ look like when it comes to managing change in regional communities? Supporting positive change is a shared responsibility. Communities, industry, business, investors and all levels of government each have a role to play. When done well, development builds on local strengths, reflects community priorities, delivers shared benefits, and helps both people and places thrive. 

Through conversations in diverse regions experiencing major economic change, a set of shared economic goals and ideas of what good development might look like has emerged. These include:  

  • A diverse and resilient economy: Long-term resilience depends on diversifying the local industry base, supporting local enterprise, and backing emerging opportunities for a future ready economy – from renewable energy development and the decarbonisation of agriculture, to the adoption of circular economy practices and community wealth building initiatives. 
  • First Nations economic self-determination: Supporting First Nations leadership and decision making, alongside the growth of Indigenous-owned businesses, strengthens economic sovereignty and delivers cultural, environmental and economic benefits.
  • Space for innovation and local knowledge: Transition is not linear. Regions need the time, resources and forums to learn, adapt, and lead – drawing on the experience of communities. 
Doing future visioning with young people in Uralla Shire highlights what they would like development to enable. Credit: Lyndsay Walsh.

How change is managed locally will shape the future of the regions 

None of this is possible without continued investment in the people and processes that make good development possible: local engagement, collaboration, coordination and community leadership. For us, this means spending time in regions, listening deeply, understanding local priorities and concerns, and supporting people to strengthen the skills and confidence they need to lead change over time.

Our experience is that when local leadership and relationships are genuinely valued, regional stakeholders are able to shape decisions and drive outcomes as true partners. This creates stronger opportunities to deliver shared value and achieve positive lasting outcomes.

The Next Economy in South West Queensland, engaging locally to develop a regional transition plan. Credit: Lyndsay Walsh.

Looking forward to the year ahead  

We have repeatedly seen that when communities are properly engaged and supported, they are more than ready to lead. In Mount Isa, local workshops helped bring together council, community and industry to chart a path through the closure of a major mine. In Uralla Shire, community dialogues have shaped the direction of the local renewable energy plan.  

Early, inclusive planning, iterative engagement, access to supportive resources, ongoing dialogue, transparency, and a clear focus on regional wellbeing all help shape stronger outcomes over time. These aren’t new ideas to those working in or with regional communities, but they’re worth repeating and keeping front of mind as change unfolds. We’ll be sharing more reflections on what this looks like in practice in the months ahead.

With so much change already underway, and with regions at different points along their own journeys, we return to our same central questions, and support our regional stakeholders to ask of each other: what does ‘good’ look like for our community, and what will it take for us to get there together?

You can read more about our in-region engagement on this topic in these webstories:  

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

Esparq Ventures is quietly reshaping the Indigenous business landscape across Northern Australia. In less than two years, its community-led model has supported dozens of Indigenous entrepreneurs to launch and grow ventures across sectors like tourism, agriculture, technology and education. These businesses are creating jobs, building founder confidence, and strengthening local economies – all while staying grounded in culture and Country. 

Esparq Ventures is an Indigenous-led organisation working alongside Indigenous entrepreneurs to grow strong, successful businesses and a thriving First Nations business ecosystem. Founded in 2024, Esparq exists to back Indigenous founders with the tools, networks and support they need to take their ideas to market and succeed on their own terms. This includes building ventures, unlocking new market opportunities, and strengthening the infrastructure needed to support a connected and resilient Indigenous economy. Everything we do is grounded in self-determination and a belief in what’s possible when communities have the resources to shape their own futures. Esparq has 100% Indigenous membership and a majority Indigenous Board.

 To find out more visit: www.esparq.com.au   

Darryl Majid, founder and CEO of Esparq, is modest about his own achievements – but when he speaks about his team, their work, and the people they walk alongside, his enthusiasm is unmistakable. In this conversation, Darryl shares the thinking behind Esparq’s approach, the lessons learned from walking alongside entrepreneurs in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait, and the bold vision driving the company’s next chapter.  

This conversation accompanies Walking Together, Esparq’s first official report, co-authored with The Next Economy, and explores the challenges, opportunities and stories shaping a new Indigenous-led business ecosystem. 

Tell us about your journey – what’s your background, and what inspired you to start Esparq Ventures? 

I started out working in the space as a First Nations Lead, alongside some incredibly talented and passionate people. We were making early progress in building Indigenous social enterprises, and that experience gave me a real sense of what was possible. But it also highlighted the limitations of traditional structures for Indigenous businesses. 

In August 2023, I made the decision to leave and build something new. I’d just become a father, so part of it was necessity – I needed to bring in income. But I also knew I had a unique skill set and a deep passion for this work. I’ve always thrived on the challenge of raising capital and pitching ideas, it scratches a competitive itch for me. 

More importantly, I saw that there were all sorts of people and funders who genuinely wanted to support Indigenous businesses but didn’t know how to connect with the right people or navigate the cultural context. Esparq was born out of that gap – to walk alongside entrepreneurs, unlock opportunities, and build something that could truly shift the landscape. 

You often talk about ‘walking alongside’ entrepreneurs, and it’s the name of the paper, what does that look like in practice? 

It means going the long route. We’re not just handing over a business plan and walking away. We pitch for our clients, call out bad actors, ring government on their behalf. We pool shared resources like bookkeeping. It’s a tough model – expensive and time-intensive – but we believe the long-term investment will pay off. 

We’re deeply embedded in the work. We’re part of the business, not just advisors. That’s what walking alongside really means. 

What are the biggest barriers Indigenous entrepreneurs face – especially in remote or regional areas? Why haven’t traditional investment models worked? 

Capital is the biggest barrier – always. There are lots of other barriers, but they all come back to money. Non-Indigenous entrepreneurs are more likely to have access to family savings or assets they can leverage. That’s not the reality for most Indigenous people. If you don’t have money, you can’t get money. 

Traditional investment models assume that kind of access. They’re built around people who can self-fund or bootstrap. That’s why they haven’t worked – they don’t account for the structural disadvantage Indigenous entrepreneurs face. 

What kind of future do you imagine for Indigenous entrepreneurship, and how does Esparq help bring that to life? 

I imagine a future with more access, more exposure, and more maturity in the Indigenous business sector. Right now, a lot of businesses are sole traders or joint ventures – many are dependent on grants, not loans; not independently owned or scalable. We need to build models that allow Indigenous entrepreneurs to grow and thrive, not just survive. 

Esparq is about creating those models. We’re building businesses that can replicate and scale across northern Australia – like Bush Beef, which allows Indigenous cattle breeders to supply into a single entity to better access markets. Through one business, we can create many. It’s about solving our own problems and using those learnings to drive systems change. 

What strengths do you see in the businesses you work with, and what are some common misconceptions? 

One big misconception is that Indigenous people aren’t entrepreneurial – but that couldn’t be further from the truth. There’s a genuine entrepreneurial spirit in our communities. People are running multiple micro-businesses, juggling jobs, and constantly innovating. In the past two weeks alone, we’ve had leads ranging from drone tech to AI tools for classrooms. The ideas are out there. 

The strength lies in the people.  

We look for founders with tenacity, creativity and character … the kind of high-agency individuals who move with urgency, challenge the status quo and find a way to keep going when others stop looking. Like the woman who catered for a full group from a tiny kitchen with a single burner — and still delivered unforgettable food, by boat. Or the tourism founder who couldn’t get funding, but rallied volunteers, built partnerships and got a bus on the road to market his vision. You can’t help or teach this stuff. The rest – pricing, bookkeeping, operations – we can help with. 

What does success look like for Esparq, beyond just the numbers? How should we be measuring value in Indigenous business? 

Success is about empowering people to create wealth and autonomy. If people have money, good things follow. We don’t need to define impact narrowly – we just need to record the great things that happen when communities are empowered. 

Measuring jobs, revenue, and businesses supported has its role. But a job in Cairns isn’t the same as a job in remote Cape York. We need to tell the stories of what happens when people are given wealth and autonomy – that’s the real impact. 

What did the Esparq Partner Experience in Cairns and the Torres Strait mean to you – personally and professionally? 

It was surreal. I’ve never had many traditional jobs, so I’m always figuring things out. Professionally, it opened new opportunities for Esparq and the businesses we support. Personally, it was more relief than excitement – just knowing it worked, and it all came together. 

The trip wasn’t about showcasing our work – it was about introducing people to the communities we work with. That’s the difference. We’re not saying, ‘come see what we’ve done’ – we’re saying ‘come meet the people we’re walking alongside’. 

What’s next for Esparq, and what are you most excited about in this next phase? 

We’re shifting toward building scalable businesses and co-founding with community. Bush Beef is another good example – one head business that Traditional Owners can supply to. We’re piloting tourism and logistics networks to break down barriers of remoteness. It’s about replicating and scaling models across northern Australia. 

We’re also using those learnings to shape new products – like our Futures Fund, alongside shared services. It’s about solving our own problems and building systems that work for our communities. 

What message would you share with investors, policymakers, or aspiring Indigenous entrepreneurs reading your new report? 

There’s a quote I relate to: ‘It’s human nature to overestimate risk and underestimate opportunity’. The risks aren’t as big as you think, and the opportunities are bigger. Despite all the barriers, people are still finding a way to win. Imagine what we could do if we unlocked those barriers. 

For entrepreneurs, I don’t want to sugarcoat it – business is hard. It’s not for everyone. But if you’re still keen after hearing that, then maybe it is for you. We’re here to walk alongside those who are ready to take that leap. 

Read Walking Together: Building Indigenous Business in Northern Australia – a new report by Esparq Ventures, co-authored with The Next Economy.

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 economic justice and wellbeing across Australia.

At the heart of this initiative is the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a secure and dignified life. A wellbeing economy goes beyond economic growth alone, it focuses on equity, community resilience, and environmental stewardship. This new partnership hopes to contribute to and encourage a fairer sharing of prosperity by fostering a more balanced distribution of power, wealth, and opportunity.

Australia currently experiences high levels of income and wealth inequality. The top 20 per cent of households receive almost half (48 per cent) of the nation’s income, while the bottom 20 per cent receive only four per cent.1 These disparities have resulted in widespread insecurity, financial stress, delayed medical care, and adverse effects on mental health.

A considerable 63 per cent of Australians feel that the economy is structured to benefit the wealthy and powerful.2 Furthermore, the same economic model that has generated those disparities has led to ecological degradation, with evidence showing the country is close to exceeding at least five out of nine planetary boundaries.3

Peter Walton, Chief Executive Officer at Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation, said “This partnership represents a pivotal evolution in our philanthropic work. Through our Strategy 2030, we are committed to long-term, systemic change in Greater Melbourne by aligning partnerships to purposefully influence and shift current systems that perpetuate inequality.

“By working with The Next Economy, we are strengthening our efforts to create a just and equitable Greater Melbourne, focusing on the intersection of climate justice, economic justice, and housing justice.

“We are now working beyond traditional grantmaking to address the root causes of social and environmental challenges through systemic and future-focused strategies,” added Peter.

Lizzie Webb, Chief Executive Officer of The Next Economy, adds, “We are proud to collaborate with Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation on a multi-year program of work that aims to catalyse economic change in Australia. Over the next three years, we’ll work together to host national conversations and initiatives that build momentum for systems change — placing communities at the centre of economic transformation.”

Time to strike a good deal for communities hosting renewables 

4 August 2025: As Australia undergoes the shift to renewables, rural and regional communities are demonstrating new ways of securing a good deal from large-scale solar, wind and battery projects.  

This is the conclusion of a new report – Striking a New Deal for Renewables in Regions – authored by FRRR and Projects JSA, as part of the Striking a New Deal collaboration. It comes ahead of a first-of-its-kind national gathering of local government and regional development leaders at a Summit hosted by RE-Alliance in Newcastle this week. 

The report draws on insights from leaders in regions with significant renewable energy investments around Australia and outlines the common risks and opportunities facing their communities.  

While the majority of Australians living in regional communities generally support the nation’s shift to renewable energy (CSIRO, FCA, Porter Novelli), the report clearly shows that the first phase of this change has been challenging.  

Leaders have been grappling with significant uncertainty about what will actually be built and when; the local risks and opportunities of these developments for their economy, environment and community; and limited local agency to influence the development process. 

With the need to replace aging coal-fired power stations, state and federal governments have so far been ‘building the plane while flying it’. However, with clearer policies and more projects reaching the approval stage, solutions to common issues have emerged, creating more opportunities for regions to achieve meaningful and lasting benefits from investments. 

Sarah Matthee, Climate Solutions Portfolio Lead at FRRR, noted, “Communities simply want a good deal in return for hosting this new energy infrastructure. They want certainty, more clarity on the opportunities and risks of these projects, more resourcing and more agency in the decisions being made that will impact their regions for decades to come.” 

Lead author, Jack Archer, added, “Development at this scale will never be universally popular, but if locals can see they have been heard and clearly understand how their community will benefit, there can be enduring support for the energy shift in regions across Australia.” 

The report recommends government and industry collaborate to produce risk and opportunity accounts, to act as living ledgers, to make the terms of the local deal clearer. Currently information is fragmented and buried in planning documents, and with misinformation on social media and in local networks, it’s difficult for locals to understand what’s going to happen, if they will be better off and what issues need further work as development progresses. 

The report also recommends combining the transparency of these new accounts with upgrades to community services and housing, ongoing input from local leaders in the development process and genuine security that benefits will be delivered.  

“This set of actions is the key to unlocking the local social licence governments and industry are seeking. It’s a practical approach that can be implemented quickly and it will change the game,” Jack Archer said.  

To read more, access the report at frrr.org.au/reports/insights-reports/striking-a-new-deal. 

About the Striking a New Deal collaboration

Not-for-profit organisations the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal, RE Alliance and The Next Economy, and consultancy Projects JSA are working collaboratively on the Striking a New Deal project to support regional communities at the frontline of the energy transition. Striking a New Deal has worked with community leaders across Australia to share insights and supports initiatives that seek to find a better way to develop renewables in regions. 

About FRRR 
FRRR (Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal) is the only national foundation specifically focussed on ensuring the social and economic strength of Australia’s remote, rural and regional communities. FRRR’s unique model of support is more than money – it connects common purposes and investment from government, business and philanthropy with the genuine needs of rural people and places.   

About RE-Alliance 
The Australian Renewable Energy Alliance, or RE-Alliance, is an independent not-for-profit working to secure a responsible and rapid shift to renewable energy that actively contributes to the strength and resilience of rural and regional Australia. 

About The Next Economy 
The Next Economy, TNE is a not-for-profit economic development agency, working across all economic sectors to support communities manage the transition to a climate-safe, socially just and regenerative economy.   

About Projects JSA 
Projects JSA – Regional Advisory, led by Jack Archer, provides specialised advice on regional development issues in Australia. Jack is one of Australia’s foremost experts on regional development, experienced in policy, strategy, stakeholder consultation and facilitation, leveraging extensive networks and detailed knowledge of each region in Australia. 

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. 

Shared with permission from Uralla Shire Council – A Shire-wide Conversation About Change and Opportunity

Uralla Shire Council is taking steps to prepare for future change in the region and ensure that new development – particularly renewable energy – works for the community in the long term.

Through a project called Striking a New Deal, Council is working to understand what good development looks like for Uralla and how to make sure local priorities are front and centre when planning for how to manage change. This will help Council advocate for the kinds of benefits that matter most to our community – such as essential services, housing, infrastructure, or local job opportunities.

To support this work, Council is partnering with The Next Economy, a not-for-profit agency that supports regional communities across Australia to manage change in ways that are inclusive and locally appropriate. The Next Economy will support Council to carry out community engagement and feed community input into local planning.

In May, Council and The Next Economy spoke with a number of local stakeholders to hear a variety of perspectives on what people would like Uralla to look like in the future. In June, we’ll hold community workshops so that all residents have the opportunity to share their views.

“This is about planning ahead so that development happens in a way that reflects what our community wants. Council can’t control every project, but we can do the work now to represent our region’s interests and make sure we’re ready to shape a positive future together.” – Toni Averay, General Manager, Uralla Shire Council:

“In our work across Australia, we’ve seen that communities manage change best when they’re actively involved in shaping it. It is clear that Uralla residents have a strong sense of identity. By hearing from local voices, council can ensure that future development reflects community values, priorities and aspirations.” – Lizzie Webb, CEO, The Next Economy

To register your interest or stay informed about upcoming workshops, contact esims@uralla.nsw.gov.au

Find out more about our partnership with Uralla Shire Council:

Striking a New Deal for Uralla Shire

An exciting new chapter for The Next Economy

A message from Professor John Wiseman, Board Chair at The Next Economy

  • Dr Amanda Cahill to step down as CEO and remain at The Next Economy in a new Founder role, and as a Board Director
  • Lizzie Webb, current COO and former Board Chair, to step into the CEO role from May 2025
  • The Board has every confidence in a smooth leadership transition, and the organisation’s continued commitment to navigate change and build momentum for a rapid, responsible and fair transition
  • Hear from Amanda, and Lizzie, below

Professor John Wiseman, Chair of the Board at The Next Economy

The Next Economy was established in 2018 in response to growing calls – from community, industry and government leaders – to support regions to navigate the growing disruptions and challenges associated with the need to decarbonise the economy.

Since then, we’ve partnered with communities and decision makers to demonstrate how it is possible to manage change in ways that strengthen social, economic and environmental outcomes.

We’ve worked with regions holding the key to Australia’s transition to net zero emissions, focusing on those with carbon-intensive industries, including the Latrobe Valley (Vic), the Hunter Valley (NSW) and Central Queensland (Qld).

Over the past year, global economic and political systems have grown more complex and unstable. In response, The Next Economy has grown substantially. We have supported a new wave of regions and industries to navigate the transition and stepped up our work to give decision makers across government, industry and the investment community the confidence needed to hold the line on long-term policies and investments at a time of great political uncertainty.

Dr Amanda Cahill and Lizzie Webb with The Next Economy’s board and staff in late-2024

We are now working in regions with the capacity for critical mineral extraction and processing such as in North-West Queensland; communities that produce agricultural commodities while managing renewable energy projects and climate impacts, such as in Hay and the New England Renewable Energy Zone in New South Wales; and with significant levels of First Nations land and sea stewardship, such as in Northern Australia.

None of this would have been possible without the vision and leadership of CEO Dr Amanda Cahill and the dedication of staff, partners and supporters. After seven years leading The Next Economy, Amanda has decided to step out of the CEO role and transition into the new role of Founder.

In this new role, Amanda will continue working within the organisation to provide strategic advice, develop new content, mentor staff, manage key relationships and explore new opportunities for The Next Economy. She will also remain on the organisation’s board as a Director.

The Board would like to take this opportunity to both thank Amanda for her enormous contribution as well as congratulate her on the new role.

For this next chapter, we warmly welcome Lizzie Webb, our current Chief Operations Officer, as The Next Economy’s new CEO. An engineer by background, Lizzie brings 20 years of experience leading start-up organisations and teams in the non-profit and social enterprises sectors, including work with communities across regional and remote Australia.

Lizzie has a deep understanding of The Next Economy, first joining as a board director in 2018, before becoming board chair, and moving into staff roles where she has managed both the organisation’s operations as well as overseen initiatives. Most recently, she led collaboration with Mount Isa City Council on the successful development and launch of the city’s Future Ready Economy Roadmap.

Lizzie will officially assume the role on 5 May 2025 and will be supported by Amanda and the TNE leadership team driving key programs across energy, land use and systems change.

The Board has every confidence in The Next Economy’s new leadership and the organisation’s continued commitment to navigating change and building momentum for a rapid, responsible and fair transition.

In the coming months, you will hear more from both Amanda and Lizzie as we reflect on the organisation’s success to date and direction moving forward.

In the meantime, please join us in thanking Amanda for her extraordinary contributions in establishing The Next Economy and welcoming Lizzie to the helm.


Hear From Dr Amanda Cahill and Lizzie Webb

Long-time colleagues and collaborators, Lizzie Webb (L) and Dr Amanda Cahill (R), are working together alongside the board, staff and partners, for a smooth leadership transition at The Next Economy.

Dr Amanda Cahill, outgoing CEO and Founder, said: 

“It has been an honour and privilege to work with inspiring people all over Australia to establish and grow The Next Economy into the strong, catalytic organisation it is today. I have learned so much from so many people who have been part of this journey that has spanned communities from Cairns in Far North Queensland, to the Latrobe Valley down South and across to Western Australia and even the Northern Territory.

“At this crucial time, when the impacts of efforts to decarbonise Australia are becoming increasingly felt, The Next Economy’s work is more important than ever. People across all sectors and regions, from government officials to industry executives, union delegates to Traditional Owners, small businesses to those who don’t always benefit from economic activities are all asking how can we achieve what we need to do in terms of emission reductions, but do it in a way that ensures the protection and regeneration of both nature and our communities.

“They are asking: What does good economic development look like? This is, and will continue to be, the guiding question for The Next Economy. And I look forward to the next seven years of figuring this out with communities across Australia and beyond.”

Lizzie Webb, incoming CEO, said: 

“Amanda has worked tirelessly over the past seven years to support good decision making and action for a just transition. Her work is greatly respected by regions, government and industry alike, and she consistently works hard to inspire and support the climate and environment movement. We’re delighted Amanda will continue to work with us in her new role as Founder, and continue as a TNE Board Director. 

“Supporting regions to navigate complex change to their economies will remain central to our focus. We have a strong team in place and through our 2030 Strategy we will work with a broader range of regions critical to a just transition in Australia, and integrate a strong focus on economic systems change across all aspects of our work. 

“In the next six months, we’ll be working in partnership with multiple regions in western Queensland and central New South Wales on plans to strengthen their economies and maximise the benefits of new development across the energy and agricultural sectors. We will also commence work on a significant coral conservation project, supporting opportunities for First Nations participation and economic sovereignty.”

Mount Isa launches economic roadmap to create jobs, secure future

[Press Release from Mount Isa City Council, shared with permission here]

Mount Isa, North West Queensland: Mount Isa City Council has launched the Mount Isa Future Ready Economy Roadmap, a bold new economic vision to transform and diversify the local economy while delivering immediate jobs and long-term benefits for its residents.   

Despite a rich asset base, including the North West Minerals Provinces’ $680-billion in known in-ground resources, many of which are key for Australia’s clean energy and future-technology capabilities, Mount Isa faces significant challenges due to its remoteness and dependence on a major employer. 

Up to 1,200 jobs losses loom as Glencore winds down underground copper operations at Mount Isa Mines from mid-2025. As one of the city’s largest employers, this threatens a sharp decline in the city’s current 19,000-strong population and its ability to remain the service centre for the North West. 

The Mount Isa Future Ready Economy Roadmap presents 28 pathways and nearly 400 potential actions for local stakeholders, industry, government and community to strengthen and diversify the economy across energy, mining and minerals, transport, agriculture, and tourism. 

Developed by Council with The Next Economy and Climate-KIC Australia, and with input from more than 100 industry, business, government and community contributors, the Roadmap also focuses on ways to support decarbonisation, climate adaptation, circular design, regenerative practices, and community well-being.

Key elements of the Roadmap include:

  • Supplying critical and strategic minerals the world needs to decarbonise, leveraging Mount Isa’s mining expertise and its gateway position to the North-West Minerals Province, rich in cobalt, graphite, vanadium, rare earth elements and important metals such as copper. Noting, retention of workforce capability and current industry assets is foundational to new industry development. 
  • Producing and storing affordable, reliable renewable energy, particularly in innovative ways, with Council already working with Green Gravity and Glencore to explore repurposing legacy mining assets for gravitational energy storage systems. 
  • Ensuring the timely completion of CopperString 2032 to connect Mount Isa to the national energy grid, unlocking opportunities for renewables, to decarbonise industries, and expand critical minerals mining and processing and other industries. 
  • Improving transport and logistics infrastructure as a key enabler for industry and liveability, also to mitigate risks from extreme weather events like the recent floods. This includes common-user rail infrastructure, road upgrades, and innovative solutions such as airship freight which is already being explored. 
  • Future-proofing and growing tourism and agriculture industries, with actions to build the resilience of local beef grazing operations as well as local multi-day tourism adventures to explore the region’s unique landscape and culture.
  • Improving social services and community infrastructure, including much-needed childcare facilities, affordable housing and specialist healthcare for residents and as the main service centre for the North West.

The Roadmap showcases Council’s existing commitment to economic development, such as the establishment of The Australian Critical Minerals Industrial Precinct, the Critical Minerals and Rare Earth Elements Research Centre with UQ, and a battery anode material facility for graphite production.

However, Mount Isa can’t do it alone. Council is calling on the Queensland and Australian governments to back Mount Isa’s future – and its significant contribution to the economy as Australia decarbonises – with multi-billion-dollar investment and tailored coordination and support. 

Peta MacRae, Mount Isa Mayor, said: “The pending closure of Glencore’s underground operations is a huge loss for Mount Isa, but when one door closes, many more are opening to protect our workforce and build the industries, infrastructure and services we need for the future. 

“We have a strong economic vision and plan. Council is already working with partners to unlock opportunities in new technologies and services. However, bold assistance from the state and federal governments is needed for Mount Isa to remain a great place to live, work and do business.”

Tim Rose, Mount Isa City Council CEO, said: “Mount Isa is very rich in critical minerals and rare earths, yet we face challenges with remoteness and huge costs for power and transport. It’s time to embrace new technologies to generate low-cost and clean power so our mining sector keeps running and we can keep the lights on in our communities.”

“With global uncertainty and the challenging nature of mining, Mount Isa offers an ideal location to de-risk and unlock the critical and rare earth minerals the world needs to decarbonise while adding value to our region. With the right investment and support, we can unlock further investment and keep punching above our weight for the national economy.”

Liz Webb, The Next Economy COO and project lead, said: “Business-as-usual economic development is no longer enough for historic mining regions like Mount Isa, grappling with major industrial upheaval taking a heavy toll on local workforces and economies. 

“The Roadmap is the exact sort of initiative the Future Made in Australia bill is designed to support. New industry development is complex and takes time. Mount Isa is ready for this challenge, and will be successful with the right coordination, support and investment. 

“The Roadmap showcases Mount Isa’s commitment to tackling urgent challenges in ways that secure long-term success. With a proud community, industry collaboration, and renowned innovation, Mount Isa is poised for a future ready economy that requires a new era of collaboration and investment from industry and government.”

Jason Nielsen, Climate-KIC Australia Director Strategic Projects and project lead, said: “A prosperous and sustainable future for Mount Isa depends on collaboration and coordination between companies, government, and the community. The speed and complexity of economic and social change make siloed efforts ineffective. 

“It is critical that stakeholders see the interconnected and systemic nature of the problems and opportunities ahead, such as infrastructure development and workforce attraction and retention, and develop new ways of working together towards common goals. The Future Economy Roadmap is one of several important local initiatives to support and guide this process.”

Mount Isa’s Future Ready Economy Roadmap is available via Council’s website mountisa.qld.gov.au.

Welcome funding for CQ, SA critical minerals projects

Media Statement, 17 April 2024

In response to the Federal Government’s critical minerals project funding announcement, including a welcome $400 million in new loans for Alpha HPA’s high-purity alumina processing facility in Gladstone, The Next Economy CEO Amanda Cahill said:

“This is a good example of the role we need government to play if we are to unlock private investment and support regional communities to manage this massive transformation. It is this kind of support that helps Gladstone to attract new investment under the region’s 10-year Economic Roadmap, showing just what’s possible if communities, governments and industries come together to meaningfully address change.

“Australia is blessed with abundant resources, but this can be a curse if development is not done well with boom-and-bust cycles contributing to a range of challenges such as exacerbating housing and workforce shortages. We need a new, holistic approach to regional development so that profits are shared equitably, the rights of First Nations people are respected, and environmental impacts are avoided. For example, in some places companies are looking at how they can reduce the need for new extractive projects by adopting circular economy approaches, such as the mining of existing tailings.”

Read more about Gladstone’s 10-year Economic Roadmap, developed in partnership with The Next Economy.

For interviews, contact 0415 833 948.

A welcome Future Made in Australia

Media Statement
11 April, 2024

In response to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Future Made in Australia Act announcement and address at the Queensland Media Club today, Dr Amanda Cahill, CEO of The Next Economy, said: 

“This is an important announcement at a pivotal time for Australia as the world races to decarbonise. Everyone is competing to build the industries that will be the basis of national prosperity, which means everyone is competing for the same components needed to build a renewable future.

“For the first time in decades, Australia can expand its manufacturing base to meet this domestic and international demand. Small, medium and large-scale companies across Queensland in regions like Central Queensland, Townsville and Mt Isa are already manufacturing RE components like towers for wind turbines, inputs for solar panels and electronics, processing important minerals like copper, bauxite and zinc, making green chemicals and hydrogen, and even batteries and electric vehicles.

“We hear from industry everywhere that government support like this is crucial to unlock private investment. Public finance has always played an important role in moments of large-scale and rapid transformation, from setting up the mining industry to building electricity and transport infrastructure. This moment of transformation is no different. 

“This level of government ambition offers huge potential for regions like Gladstone in Central Queensland, where local government is already attracting new investment and government support under their 10-year Economic Transition Roadmap. But only if it’s approached holistically and that means ensuring better support for essential services and housing so that communities genuinely benefit over the long term.”

For media requests, contact 0415 833 948