Held on 2 October 2024 at Central Oval, Port Augusta, the Regional Development SA Summit 2024 gathered key leaders to discuss South Australia’s path to net zero, the development of a circular economy, and the impact of AI advancements on regional growth. The summit showcased how regional SA can lead in clean energy and sustainability.
Opportunities for Regional SA in the Net Zero Transition
Richard Bolt, Principal at Nous Group and Chair of Hydro Tasmania, explored how regional South Australia can drive the net zero transition. He emphasised the need for fast-tracking infrastructure development and adopting electric vehicles and clean energy technologies. Bolt noted that early adoption of these technologies will ensure South Australia remains competitive in global markets and avoids supply disruptions.
Hydrogen’s Role in South Australia’s Renewable Future
Sam Crafter PSM, Chief Executive of the Office of Hydrogen Power SA, highlighted South Australia’s remarkable progress in renewable energy, rising from 1% in 2007 to 74% in 2024. Crafter discussed plans for a clean hydrogen precinct in Whyalla, designed to support both domestic energy needs and global export markets, positioning South Australia as a leader in the hydrogen industry.
Maximising the Net Zero Opportunity: A Panel Discussion
A panel discussion moderated by Mike Smithson featured Tori Castledine (Fortescue), Rachel Brdanovic (Tandem Energy and RDABGLAP Board Member), Sam Crafter, and Richard Bolt. The discussion focused on how regional South Australia can build on its renewable energy successes to drive further growth and innovation, particularly through policy support and industry collaboration.
Clean Energy Precincts: A Strategy for Growth
Andrew Barker, Head of Research at the Committee for Economic Development Australia, outlined the importance of Clean Energy Precincts. These precincts are key to creating jobs in solar and wind power, retraining workers from declining industries like coal and gas, and revitalising regional economies through sustainable growth.
Circular Economy and Green Innovation
The summit also addressed the potential of the circular economy, with Lisa McLean, CEO of Circular Australia, providing insights on how regional areas can lead in sustainability. Daniel Palumbo and Frank Vounasis introduced plans for a green economy precinct near Dublin, which includes a 6.5 MW bioreactor that will convert organic waste into energy, supporting vertical farming and sustainable food production.
Carbon Accounting: The Next Frontier for Agriculture
Sarah Barrett, Lead Consultant at Pinion Advisory, presented on the growing importance of carbon accounting in agriculture. Barrett highlighted that as international markets demand greater transparency in emissions, carbon tracking will soon become a legal requirement across sectors. This shift represents a significant opportunity for regional SA to lead in sustainable farming practices.
Reskilling the Workforce for a Renewable Future
With the shift to renewable energy, Mandy Masters, Local Coordinator of the New Energy Apprentices Mentoring Program at MGA Group, discussed the need for reskilling workers. She explained how skills from industries like construction, manufacturing, and trades can be transferred to the clean energy sector, opening new career opportunities for regional workers.
AI and Cybersecurity in Regional Development
Mamello Thinyane, Optus Chair of Cybersecurity and Data Science at UniSA STEM, delivered a keynote on the implications of AI and cybersecurity for regional development. He urged businesses to adopt existing cybersecurity protocols to protect their data from breaches and ensure resilience in the digital economy.
Recognising Leadership in Regional Development
The summit concluded with recognition of Kelly-Anne Saffin, outgoing CEO of Regional Development Australia Adelaide, for her decade of service. The Hon. Rob Kerin, Chair of Regional Development South Australia, presented Saffin with flowers in recognition of her contributions as she transitions to her new role as South Australia’s Cross Border Commissioner.
