Hunter Insight Series
The Hunter Insight Series brings together the Hunter Research Foundation Centre's wealth of data and the latest research from the Institute for Regional Futures.
Through this series, we delve into the social, economic and environmental factors at play in the Hunter and other regions. We highlight key considerations for decision-makers, and the challenges and opportunities for the road ahead.
Vines and Vision
A bold vision to secure the long-term sustainability of the Hunter Valley wine industry was the focus of the 2025 Hunter Insights Series.
The event attracted more than 50 stakeholders, including researchers, winemakers, tourism leaders, and government representatives. It also marked a significant step toward collaborative solutions for one of Australia’s most iconic wine regions.
“The Hunter Valley is not only a jewel in Australia’s wine crown – it’s a living, breathing example of regional resilience, innovation, and identity. But it is also a region facing very real and very complex challenges – from climate variability to economic pressure, to labour and sustainability demands,” said the Institute’s Acting Director Professor Kate Senior.
Read more about the event here.
L-R Michael de Iuliis, Professor Kate Senior, Liz Riley, Dr Julie McIntyre, Jennie Curran, Alisdair Tulloch, Dr Christophe Tourenq, University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky
Youth Perspectives
Held in February 2024, Youth Perspectives explored the key challenges impacting young people, and what is needed from our decision-makers to support our youth now and into the future as they prepare for careers in emerging industries.
Facilitated by Institute for Regional Futures Director Professor Roberta Ryan, a panel of four young Hunter community members reflected on a range of critical issues such as housing, migration, economic transition, First Nations equity and wellbeing.
Youth Perspectives Factsheet
The Youth Perspectives Factsheet expands on the themes explored during the panel discussion at the Hunter Insight Series: Youth Perspectives.
Want to hear more of our insights?
The Geography of Jobs was held in May 2023. Amanda Wetzel, the Institute's Director - Research Programs, unpacked the underlying drivers behind the region’s employment trends and explored opportunities for the Hunter’s workforce.
You can watch the presentation in full below.
Hunter Insight Series: The Geography of Jobs
Presented by Amanda Wetzel, Director - Research Programs, Institute for Regional Futures
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.