Tuesday 22nd – Thursday 24th July, 2025 Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji and Yirrganydji Country in tropical Cairns

Securing Australia’s Future by Driving Northern Development

Join the decision makers of Northern Australia.

Northern Australia is a place of extremes, beauty and opportunity. From the red dirt of the desert to the tropical rainforests and arid savannahs, it’s a place where people, nature and culture thrive.

The vast majority of land and sea country is under First Nations rights, and some of the greatest natural resources on the planet are located in the north. Development aspirations need to be inclusive, sustainable and ultimately support the wellbeing of people and places.

The Developing Northern Australia Conference brings together talent from across the north with industry, government and investors to explore sectors of greatest opportunity and learn more about doing business north of the Tropic of Capricorn.

Join us on Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji and Yirrganydji Country in tropical Cairns, 22 to 24 July 2025 to progress a balanced and sustainable development of Northern Australia.

DNAC 2025 Location

This year we're bringing DNAC to Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji and Yirrganydji Country in tropical Cairns

Nestled amidst the only place where two natural World Heritage sites meet, the world’s oldest rainforest meeting the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns offers a unique and serene backdrop for both professional growth and personal relaxation. Why not create a team escape around this year’s DNAC (or plan a personal holiday before or after the conference)! Picture yourself engaging in insightful discussions, workshop, and networking sessions during the day, while the evenings are reserved for exploring the vibrant local culture and enjoying the region's natural wonders.

THE MISSION

A successful Northern Australia

To conceptualise and strategise the three priority areas that have been set for the next five-year Northern Australia Action Plan: human capital, enabling infrastructure, and economic development and diversification.
To give a platform for individuals, policy makers, decision makers and businesses to gather in the one place and work together to create a strong and sustainable North - now, and in the future.
To share best practices, explore innovative concepts and facilitate meaningful connections to transform sector collaboration and communication.
To provide real solutions with applicable takeaways for all stakeholders as we walk into an exciting, yet challenging future for the region.

Here’s a snapshot of delegates you can connect with at DNAC

DNAC brings together Northern Australian businesses, industry, government and communities in the same space to discuss the important issues facing us all. Typically, we see delegates range from:

Managers and Departments Heads of Federal, State and Local Governments.
CEO, Leaders and Managers.
Indigenous Community Corporations and Leaders.
Local small business leaders and local industry associations.
Members from Chambers of business and commerce.
Non-government funded and government-funded bodies.
Leaders in both government departments and private sector industries attend, including:

Infrastructure and Trade
Mining and Resources
Defence
Agriculture
Tourism and Fisheries
International relations
Manufacturing
Development Commissions
Treasury
Regional Development
Planning and Environment
Jobs and Employment
Housing and Water Management
Education, Health and Aged Care

Yes! DNAC is for you if you’re looking for…

Unmatched networking with the very leaders and stakeholders in government, community and business who drive strategy and direction in Northern Australia. You won’t find these connections and conversations anywhere else.
Up-to-date research and information on how we can make the North stronger and more cohesive.
Honest conversations around the strategic direction of the North, and what needs to happen now and in the future to see the vision fulfilled.

Content you can’t find anywhere else – Networking you can’t find anywhere else!

At DNAC25 you will gain invaluable insights into a wide range of topics aimed at reshaping the future of Northern Australia.

Explore the potential of Indigenous-led development and partnerships, focusing on nation-building, self-determination, and local leadership.

There will be discussions on the role of universities in supporting Indigenous communities and advancing self-determination, alongside the importance of inclusive leadership, role models, and cross-departmental participation in the Northern Australia Action Plan.

Key themes also include the governance of Northern Australia, with sessions on re-wiring governance systems, driving investment in infrastructure, and shaping a dynamic workforce through education and migration strategies.

Join the discussion on how Indigenous communities can lead in the global arena through diplomacy and trade, while also addressing environmental sustainability, with an emphasis on nature-positive investments and decarbonization.

DNAC will highlight opportunities in defense, biosecurity, and regional cooperation, alongside strategies for enhancing health outcomes and building resilient healthcare systems. Through collaborative sessions, delegates will gain the tools, strategies, and networks to drive sustainable growth and development in Northern Australia, ensuring a future where all communities thrive.

As well as this, you will receive:

Access to conference app
Printed conference materials
Over 10 hours towards CPD points
Your personalised certificate of attendance

Have a break away from your inbox + the fun stuff

Get ready to enjoy:

An exclusive welcome networking function with drinks, canapes and entertainment 
Full day conference catering package
A special gift for returning delegates
The chance to win awesome prizes
Other fun things for all delegates

What we’ll cover at DNAC25