The 2025 Developing Northern Australia Conference (DNAC) took place from the 22-24 July in Cairns, bringing together over 500 delegates from across the north, the rest of Australia and the wider Indo-Pacific. In its 11th year, DNAC continues to serve as a key platform for shaping the future of northern Australia through providing a forum for strategic dialogue, cross-sector collaboration and bold regional thinking.
This year’s event was particularly momentous as it marked the final year that Professor Allan Dale of The Cairns Institute served as Conference Chair. A respected leader in regional development and policy reform, Professor Dale has been instrumental in building DNAC into a nationally recognised event and brand since its launch in Townsville in 2015. His leadership has helped amplify northern voices and foster a culture of cooperation across jurisdictions, sectors, and communities. Since then, DNAC has been held in thrice in Darwin, twice in Karratha, Alice Springs, twice in Cairns, Mackay and Rockhampton.
The 2025 program featured a wide range of perspectives on themes as diverse of Indigenous self-determination, Indo-Pacific relations, geostrategic issues, renewable transitions and nature the DNAC2025 positive economies, workforce development, place-based planning, supply chains and infrastructure. A number of Cairns Institute staff actively contributing to discussions throughout the event. Professor Hurriyet Babacan AM, Chair of Regional Development Australia Tropical North, delivered a powerful keynote on Regional Cooperation between Australia and the Indo-Pacific. Dr Jim Turnour shared insights on Indigenous water rights and regional empowerment, highlighting the value of long-term, place-based investment.
The conference also featured a range of dynamic sessions; including one on workforce and opportunities through sport chaired by Jen McHugh. Dr Brian Fairman and Prof Babacan led a link between the conference and four Australian Awards participants from the Indo Pacific Region. Dr Anna Hayes from CASE also provided a significant keynote of geostrategic issues of importance to the region. Minister Madeleine King also announced James Cook University’s Professor Martin Nakata as the new Chair of the Indigenous Reference Group for Northern Australia.
DNAC2026 will be held in Alice Springs.
AUGUST 2025
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