Due to the escalation of COVID-19 outbreaks in Victoria and NSW and continuing lockdowns and travel restrictions, NEDC20 will be a completely online event.

While we are disappointed not to welcome delegates to the City of Liverpool in person, we look forward to bringing delegates a taste of this vibrant city, through innovative means! With the theme; Breaking New Ground, Building a Resilient Future, the dynamic program from 18-20 November will bring national and international economic development leaders directly to you, with fully interactive, live presentations and discussions, through a professional online event platform.

Full, online registration provides attendance at all conference sessions with interactive Q&A, access to the virtual sponsorship exhibition, networking sessions through a meeting hub, etc. Recordings will also be available after the event.

Registration fees have been amended to reflect a fully virtual event, as well as recognising the impact COVID-19 has had on many of our members' budgets. If you have already registered as a face to face delegate, we will be in touch to transfer your tickets.

I’m sure you agree that Liverpool’s unwavering support to deliver a world-class conference while ensuring the safety, health and well-being of delegates is to be commended. This leadership reflects the reason Liverpool City Council were the successful host bidder!

This also means some changes to the EDA National Awards for Excellence. The pandemic has impacted many members’ plans and projects and we know for many of you, preparing a submission is proving impossible. However, some of you wish to acknowledge colleagues for individual excellence throughout this challenging period. As such, the EDA National Awards for Excellence will include just three honorary categories this year:

• The Peter Chaffey Economic Development Leadership Award,

• Economic Development Rising Star Leadership and

• Economic Development Leadership Award.

The closing date for awards submissions in these three categories is now 4th September 2020. All other categories are closed until 2021. In a year without much certainty, what we do know is that NEDC20 will be the one economic development event not to be missed. Now you know you can attend from the safety and comfort of your home or office, there is no better time to book!