In September 2024, RDA Logan and Redlands convened a forum bringing together 54 business and community leaders to address systemic barriers to growth and chart a sustainable path forward.

The Forum featured keynote presentations from leading industry voices including the CEOs of the Queensland Major Contractors Association and the Council of Mayors – South East Queensland and a regional business case study and a scenario-based panel that explored the long-term consequences of planning and investment decisions. All under Chatham House rules, creating a trusted environment where stakeholders could engage in frank, solutions-focused dialogue.

The Forum was underpinned by an RDA-led Advocacy Paper designed to sharpen dialogue on planning, investment and equitable development across Logan and the Redlands. The Forum successfully reinforced the need for investment approaches that deliver not just financial returns, but also enduring economic, social and environmental legacies.

Short-term outcomes included the creation of new business-to-business connections, sharper advocacy messages, and a collective recognition of the need for industry-led leadership.

Medium-term outcomes included the integration of the Forum’s insights into future RDA advocacy and strategic planning, providing an evidence base for discussions with government and investors.

In the longer term, the Forum has positioned Logan and the Redlands to capitalise on the opportunities from the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games by shaping an investment narrative focused on skills, infrastructure, and sustainable growth.

The event demonstrated the strength of collaboration and partnerships. Businesses from diverse sectors – aviation, transport, tourism, telecommunications, property development and creative industries – shared perspectives on infrastructure, labour markets and supply chains.

The Forum also deliberately broadened the conversation beyond large industry stakeholders to include small and medium enterprises, creative industries, and social enterprises. RDA Logan and Redlands ensured space was made for discussions about inclusion, acknowledging the role of First Nations people in shaping sustainable growth and the importance of designing policies and investments that deliver benefits across diverse communities. The RDA partnered with Gawun Supplies, an Australian Indigenous-owned business and presented each speaker with a unique Indigenous-designed shirt.

Image Source: RDA Logan and Redlands (rdaloganandredlands.org.au)