The Future Tech Forum will be held in Inverell on Thursday 28 May, bringing together business, government, education and industry leaders to discuss the impact of technology and artificial intelligence on regional economies.
The regional-focused event, delivered by Business NSW New England North West with major partner Telstra and event partner Inverell Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will centre on the theme Technology, Trust & Transformation in Regional Economies.
The forum aims to help regional businesses prepare for the next wave of economic and technological change, while ensuring regional communities are not left behind as AI and digital transformation accelerate across industries.
The event will also provide one of the few opportunities in regional NSW for businesses to participate in practical, in-person AI and technology workshops tailored to regional industries and workplaces.
“In-person AI and technology workshops of this calibre remain rare across regional NSW,” said Stephanie Cameron, Regional Director – New England North West at Business NSW.
“That’s what makes the Future Tech Forum so important for our region. Businesses will have direct access to hands-on learning, practical demonstrations and discussions that are normally held in metropolitan centres.
“As AI continues to reshape industries, New England North West businesses need opportunities to understand how these tools can improve productivity, support workforce capability and create competitive advantage, without needing to travel to a large metropolitan centre.”
The forum will focus on:
- responsible and ethical AI adoption
- improving digital readiness and enabling infrastructure
- building trust and confidence in emerging technologies
Telstra will present on the infrastructure and connectivity required to support AI adoption and regional growth.
A workshop delivered by Chill IT will demonstrate how AI-powered Copilot tools can improve productivity and streamline business operations.
Additional sessions will examine ethical AI use, regional case studies, and digital capability, adoption and regional competitiveness.
“With technology now influencing every sector, from agriculture and manufacturing through to local government, education and small business, this is quickly becoming one of the most timely business events in our region,” Cameron said.
Featured speakers and sessions
- Michael Marom, Northern NSW General Manager, Telstra
- Justin Melton, CEO, Chill IT
- Professor Mark Perry, Head of School (interim), Law, University of New England
- Hamish Leahy, CEO, HLD Software Group
Event details
Event: New England North West Future Technology Forum 2026
Date and time: Thursday 28 May 2026, 11.30am to 2pm (registrations from 11am)
Venue: Inverell RSM, 68–76 Evans Street, Inverell NSW
Registrations: https://www.123tix.com.au/events/52650/new-england-north-west-future-tech-forum-2026-business-nsw
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