HumanAbility was thrilled to host 110 attendees in Alice Springs in early November, for the inaugural HumanAbility Rural and Regional Forum. Attendees represented more than 90 industry organisations across aged and disability services, children’s education and care, health and human services, and the sport and recreation industries.  

Arrernte Elder and artist Kumalie Riley provided a moving and powerful Welcome to Country which was followed by a keynote address delivered by Jenny Bedford, the Deputy CEO of Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Service. HumanAbility was honoured to have both Kumalie Riley and Jenny Bedford in attendance to open proceedings on the day. 

Throughout the day-long Forum, collaborative discussions were had by attendees which focussed on unpacking the challenges and opportunities facing workforce development in rural, regional and remote communities. 

Given the current workforce barriers in regional and remote areas, the Forum was a critical opportunity for industry leaders to have important discussions, ensuring regional interests are at the forefront of the HumanAbility workforce planning. 

HumanAbility is grateful to all attendees who shared their experiences and expertise at the Forum. The discussions had will shape a new, national approach to workforce planning for Australia.

Acknowledgments 

HumanAbility would like to extend its sincere thanks to Lisa Hatz Photography for her work in capturing the event, Think in Colour for scribing and depicting the thoughts and ideas from the day, and lastly to MosaicLab for its excellent facilitation of the day.