29 January 2026
Social Impact in the Regions 2026 heads to Stanthorpe QLD, building on nearly $1 million generated for regional communities
Social Impact in the Regions (SIITR), Australia’s leading place-based social impact conference for regional changemakers and investors, will be hosted in Stanthorpe from 2 to 4 September 2026. The conference will bring national attention, investment and collaboration to the Southern Downs region.
Since launching in 2023, SIITR has generated $947,671 in regional economic output, directly supporting local businesses, venues, artists and community organisations across host regions including Coffs Harbour, Kempsey and Grafton (NSW).
Unlike traditional conferences, SIITR is embedded in the communities where it is held. It forms the centrepiece of a two-year place-based readiness program delivered through Ready Communities, ensuring long-term local benefit rather than fly-in, fly-out engagement.
SIITR Founder and Ready Communities partner, Kerry Grace said Stanthorpe was a natural choice.
“Stanthorpe is a region with strong community leadership, deep local pride and complex challenges that reflect many regional communities across Australia,” Ms Grace said.
“Hosting SIITR here brings people, resources and national attention into the region, while creating a platform for local voices, projects and priorities.”
Regional Australia is where many of the nation’s most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges are being experienced, and where many of the solutions are emerging. SIITR exists to connect practitioners, policymakers, investors, community leaders and entrepreneurs who are working to create practical, place-based change.
Further information, ticketing and applications are available at www.socialimpactintheregions.com.au
Media enquiries: kerry@readycommunities.com.au
