The Bush Summit held in Dubbo has put regional concerns and the challenges facing Central West communities into focus. The event brought political leaders and regional representatives together in Dubbo to discuss issues affecting people living outside Australia’s major metropolitan centres.

Local federal MP Jamie Chaffey said the summit was an important opportunity to draw attention to the concerns faced by regional communities. The event included Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and Nationals Leader Matt Canavan, who visited the Parkes electorate for the summit. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also appeared at the event.

Discussion around the summit has included the pressures faced by communities in the Central-West Orana region, including the impact of major renewable-energy projects and broader regional development issues. The region is undergoing significant infrastructure and energy investment, making questions around land use, local communities and economic opportunities particularly important.

Regional representatives have argued that communities outside Sydney and other major cities need a stronger voice when major government policies and infrastructure projects are developed. The Dubbo summit provided an opportunity for local residents and political representatives to raise these issues directly.

The event also highlighted the importance of regional centres such as Dubbo as hubs for surrounding communities. Decisions about energy, infrastructure, employment and investment can have significant consequences for residents across western and central NSW.

Jamie Chaffey’s statement published today said the summit helped bring attention to regional concerns and described discussions with residents of the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.

The Bush Summit therefore represents an important regional discussion, with Dubbo providing the setting for political leaders and community representatives to consider the challenges and opportunities facing country NSW.