Improving the lives of regional Australians to create a better Australia
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Dubbo, New South Wales
August 26 – 27
We invite regional business owners, community leaders and industry heads to join this crucial conversation where we will tackle the pressing challenges facing our regions. From cost of living, energy security, housing, healthcare, education and connectivity, we will find real solutions to secure a brighter future for all Australians.
The Hon Chris Minns MP, Premier of New South Wales
The Hon Peter Malinauskas MP, Premier of South Australia
The Hon Rita Saffioti MLA, Deputy Premier of Western Australia; Treasurer; Minister for Transport and Major Infrastructure; Sport and Recreation, Member for West Swan
Moderator: Kieran Gilbert, Chief News Anchor, News24
Director-General Damien Walker, Queensland Department of the Premier and Cabinet
The Hon Michaela Settle, Minister for Rural and Regional Development; Minister for Agriculture; Minister for Water
Commissioner Martin Dole APM, Northern Territory Police Force
Moderator: Kieran Gilbert, Chief News Anchor, News24
Sharon Winsor, Founder, Indigiearth
Brendan McClements, Chief Executive Officer, Visit Victoria
Joel Katz, Executive Director, Australasia, Cruise Lines International Association
Steve Hinks, Divisional Director, Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Moderator: Camille Smith, Agribusiness, Trade and Investments Editor, The Weekly Times
The Activation Hub, located in the Convention Centre car park, is a purpose-built space showcasing the organisations, businesses, community groups and local producers.  The Hub will feature interactive experiences, local products, information and opportunities for you to connect, discover, taste, learn and explore the people, organisations and opportunities shaping regional Australia.
The Lifeline Central West team will provide a confidential emotional support space for Bush Summit attendees. Visitors can access brief one-to-one check-ins with trained Lifeline crisis support staff and volunteers. The team can offer support tools and connections to local services or Lifeline National and 13 YARN Crisis Support if required.Â
Information will also be available about Lifeline Central West’s community and corporate training, financial counselling and GambleAware support, as well as Lifeline and 13 YARN crisis support where required.
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When you attend News Corp Network associated event in-person or online event, photography, video recording/filming and audio recording may occur. By joining the event, you consent to such photography, filming, audio and video recording and to the use of your appearance, photograph, likeness, and/or voice by Nationwide News Pty Ltd and it’s related News Network entities including The Daily Telegraph, for any purpose including but not limited to advertising or promoting the event you attended, similar events in the future or in any and all media, including website, apps, social platforms and in print throughout the world in perpetuity.
The program including but not limited to dates, times, content, speakers, venues and format is subject to change at any time without prior notice. We reserve the right to make necessary adjustments to ensure the best experience and operational needs.
The Bush Summit Bush Champions Awards brought to you by Woolworths has been created to identify, recognise and celebrate Australia’s agricultural talent. The initiative will support the work that Woolworths are doing in their role as a supporter of Australian primary producers & regional communities.Â
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There are 3 x award categories and overall Woolworths Bush Champion award to be won.Â
1. Young Champion
2. Ag Champion
3. Community ChampionÂ
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How to Enter:Â Register your details and nomination via the Bush Champions entry form. Entries close Sunday 20 July at 11:59pm AEST.Â
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Judging Panel: Expert panel of judges from the agricultural sector & News Corp editorial board, Woolworths representative.Â
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Who can apply? Entry is open to Australian residents in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory (excludes Western Australia). For enquiries, please contact bushchampions@news.com.au. Full Terms and Conditions here.Â
Judging CriteriaÂ
Young Champion (Aged less than 30)
- Emerging Leadership: Demonstrated potential to lead, influence or inspire others within agriculture, regional industries or community initiatives — including evidence of initiative, resilience or peer mentorship.
- Innovation and Modern Thinking: Use of new technologies, creative problem-solving or forward-thinking approaches.
- Community Contribution and Sustainability: Active commitment to building stronger, more sustainable communities through advocacy, volunteering or driving initiatives that support long-term local wellbeing.
- Learning and Knowledge Sharing: Strong appetite for growth through training, study or mentorship — and a willingness to share knowledge or contribute to broader industry development.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Evidence of development in skills, mindset, business or community contribution — showing a clear trajectory of progress and potential for future impact.
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Ag Champion (for excellence in farming and related industries)
- Industry Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and influence others within the agricultural sector. This includes fostering collaboration, driving cultural or operational change, or mentoring future leaders.
- Advocacy and Community Impact: Evidence of commitment to the broader agricultural community — actively promoting, protecting or enhancing the reputation and prosperity of the industry, not just their own enterprise.
- Innovation and Forward Thinking: Application of innovative practices, technology, or research to improve productivity, sustainability, or efficiency — with potential for replication across the industry.
- Commitment to Learning and Development: Ongoing pursuit of knowledge through formal or informal education, training or mentoring, and a willingness to share learnings with peers and the wider community.
- Personal and Business Growth: Clear evidence of evolution in business operations, mindset, or personal development — whether through expansion, diversification, sustainability gains, or resilience through adversity.
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Community Champion
- Community Involvement and Impact: Active participation in strengthening regional communities — whether through volunteering, disaster recovery, local leadership or community-building initiatives that foster resilience and connection.
- Leadership and Knowledge Sharing: Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and empower others. This includes fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, mentoring emerging leaders, and promoting a culture of care and innovation.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Evidence of personal development or evolution in business or community life — through adaptability, innovation, or overcoming adversity to build stronger, more sustainable outcomes.
- Commitment to Thriving Communities: A clear passion and dedication to ensuring rural and regional communities not only survive but thrive — with long-term thinking, inclusive practices, and an eye to future opportunities.
