The Hunter Innovation Festival is driving the region’s push towards a cleaner, sustainable future, aligning with Australia’s net-zero ambitions. The Newcastle City event which kicked off the roadshow, brought together thought leaders, innovators, and the local community, as well as showcased cutting-edge technologies in renewable energy and advanced manufacturing—industries poised to lead the region into its next chapter.
The theme of the festival was clear: collaboration, innovation, and a dedication to transforming the Hunter from its industrial heritage to a thriving, clean energy hub. The festival highlighted the strength and resilience of the region, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with such a significant shift.
Grassroots innovation and industrial expertise
Bill Hartnett, Adviser for Investment Facilitation at the Net Zero Economy Agency (NZEA), emphasised the importance of local ingenuity and enterprise, “The Hunter Innovation Festival captures the grassroots enterprise, innovation and industrial expertise that has been a hallmark of the region. Now it is being applied to developing the new industries that will guide Australia’s net-zero ambitions.”
This sentiment was echoed throughout the event. The festival demonstrated the readiness of the Hunter community to embrace change, collaborate, and take the lead in developing new industries that will replace the region’s historical reliance on coal and heavy industries.
Mr Hartnett further noted, “The buzz and energy around the Hunter Innovation Festival comes from the willingness of the local community to collaborate and share ideas around net zero and circular economy. While we recognise there will be challenges for businesses, communities and workers as some major Hunter region industries are gradually being wound down, there is a sense of optimism that new industries will emerge that will take their place and make this transition just.”
The role of local communities and industry
Rachel Livingston, First Assistant Secretary of the Regions and Workers Division at the NZEA, provided insightful commentary on the importance of a place-based approach to the transition.
Speaking on behalf of the Commonwealth’s focus on regional Australia, Ms Livingston remarked, “Our approach to the net-zero transition must be orderly and fair, ensuring that the regions powering our nation today continue to thrive tomorrow.”
Ms Livingston’s speech highlighted the government’s dedication to ensuring that communities like those in the Hunter region are not left behind, and that they are seen as critical drivers of Australia’s clean energy future.
“True progress happens when we break down the silos, listen to communities, and put local solutions at the heart of our national strategy,” Ms Livingston added, underlining the importance of local engagement and tailored support.
Overcoming fear and uncertainty
One of the key challenges discussed during the festival was the fear and uncertainty surrounding the economic transition. Many workers and industries remain concerned about what the future holds, particularly in regions dependent on high-emission industries.
Ms Livingston addressed these concerns directly, stating, “People aren’t afraid of change, they’re afraid of uncertainty. It’s our job to provide clarity and direction, especially for workers and industries facing the shift to a cleaner economy.”
This was a central theme throughout the event, with speakers and panellists discussing ways to provide the workforce with the skills and confidence needed to adapt to new opportunities in clean energy and advanced manufacturing.
There was also consensus on the need to close the gap between education and industry to ensure that workers are ready for the jobs of the future. Ms Livingston concluded with a message of optimism and collaboration, “We can’t expect regions like the Hunter to adapt overnight, but with focused collaboration, we can turn fear into optimism and challenges into opportunities for growth.”
Looking forward
The festival provided a platform to discuss not only the technological innovations driving the net-zero transition but also the social and economic factors that must be addressed to ensure its success.
As Mr Hartnett noted, “The Hunter Innovation Festival showcased promising emerging technologies around areas such as hydrogen, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing. The region greatly benefits from its industrial heritage, an inclusive university, and an ecosystem of community-spirited entrepreneurs.”
As Australia moves towards its 2050 net-zero targets, events like the Hunter Innovation Festival are essential in fostering the collaboration and innovation required to ensure the transition is just and inclusive. By bringing new energy to the region, the Hunter is positioning itself at the forefront of the nation’s clean energy future, ensuring that the community, workers, and industries are empowered to lead the way.
The road ahead is long, but with the right support, collaboration, and innovative spirit, the Hunter region is well on its way to becoming a powerhouse in Australia’s net-zero economy.