Guiding the NEDC26 program

The Programming Steering Committee was selected through a competitive expression of interest process.

Representing a breadth of expertise from across the sector, the committee helps shape a dynamic and thought provoking program aligned to the 2026 theme, Place to Prosperity: Innovation, Transition and Investment Attraction. Together they guide discussions on how places can drive growth, navigate transition and attract investment to build resilient and prosperous communities.

Committee members

13 members

Jacqueline Brinkman

CEO, Economic Development Australia

Sheena Hannan ACEcD

Director, Economic Development Australia

Sorita McGrane ACEcD

Director, Economic Development Australia

Leandro Lopez Digon

Director, Economic Development Australia

Shaun Miller

Director, Economic Development Australia

Melissa Geist

National Events Officer, Economic Development Australia

Nick McGuire

Manager Economic Development, City of Hobart

Estella Rodighiero

CEO, Regional Development Australia Gold Coast

Danielle Phyland

Associate (Tourism), Urban Enterprise

Christopher Manoski

Manager Place and Economy, Cumberland City Council

Tom Madden

Regional Development Coordinator, Regional Development Victoria

Karishma Kodavali ACEcD

Principal Economic Advisor, City of Adelaide Council

Shae Ridgeway

Economic Development Officer, Mackay Regional Council

Join Australia's economic developers in Hobart

Registrations for NEDC26 are open, and study tour places are limited.

Register now Contact the team