Economic Development Australia (EDA)’s flagship annual conference, NEDC20, will now be a completely online event, running from 18 – 20 November.

The shift to digital was informed by recent COVID-19 outbreaks and lockdowns, however Liverpool Mayor Wendy Waller said moving online provided new opportunities.

“While we are disappointed not to welcome delegates to Liverpool in person as this year’s host city, we look forward to bringing delegates a taste of our vibrant and culturally diverse city through innovative means,” Mayor Waller said.

“In line with the conference theme, Breaking New Ground – Building a Resilient Future, NEDC20 organisers have thought creatively about how we can deliver a quality program with global relevance.

“By focussing on a digital-only event, we can open the conference up to a broader audience and allow people to participate from the safety and comfort of their home or office.”

EDA CEO Jacqueline Brinkman said NEDC20 would be the standout economic development event this year.

“In a year without much certainty, what we do know is that NEDC20 will be the one economic development event not to be missed,” Ms Brinkman said.

“Through interactive live presentations and discussions, global economic development leaders working in industries as diverse as tourism and tertiary education will deliver insights and best practice ideas for leading recovery, building resilience, and transforming local economies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We’ll hear from respected speakers including Resilience NSW Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons, Invest Puerto Rico CEO Rod Miller and ARUP’s Australasia Cities Leader Dr Tim Williams. I invite those interested in attending to visit the conference website to view our informative and engaging program.

“NEDC20 also provides a unique opportunity to promote your business to economic development leaders from Australia and beyond through sponsorship, raising your company profile and helping to develop or strengthen strategic partnerships.”

NEDC20 will be held online from 18 – 20 November 2020. Visit www.edaconference.com.au for the full program, registration and sponsorship information.

About Economic Development Australia

Economic Development Australia (EDA) is the national peak body for economic development professionals; building capacity, promoting excellence and providing leadership. NEDC20 is EDA's flagship event, which Liverpool City Council secured the rights to produce through a competitive bid process.

About Liverpool City Council

Liverpool is one of the largest local government areas in metropolitan Sydney, Australia. Liverpool City Council is responsible for providing essential community services – such as the maintenance of parks, roads and collecting household waste – to support more than 200,000 residents in 42 suburbs. Home to Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport, the Western Sydney Aerotropolis and Liverpool Innovation Precinct, Liverpool has emerged as Sydney’s third CBD and Council is working to make the growing city a wonderful place to live, work, invest, study and visit.