Where iiF all began
The iiF program was made possible through a shared vision between the South West Development Commission and City of Bunbury – with the objective of fostering innovation across the whole of the South West region in Western Australia. The purpose was to bring together a range of industry, government and academic stakeholders who could have transformative conversations to change our future.
“What iiF we could change the world” became a mobilising question.
The content of events is designed around this big picture thinking – looking up and looking out – so that we learn from best practice as well as share our own best practice from within the region to inspire each other.
With the backing of local sponsors, the inaugural iiF24 conference was staged at the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre.
The theme for the first conference was “Global trends and future industries shaping economic growth and jobs creation – on the road to net zero”.
iiF24 involved 47 presenters and panelists who shared their thought-provoking insights over 18 conference sessions.
IIF also became a platform for major announcements, with the launch of the UK Government’s Australian Hydrogen Market Study among the high-profile inclusions.
Attendees also had the chance to explore groundbreaking inventions, including a hydrogen-powered electric aircraft.
Positive feedback from attendees confirmed the conference helped them gain new insight or knowledge, new partnerships were formed, new businesses and initiatives evolved and the iiF program was established as an important part of the South West innovation ecosystem.
iiF24 conference by the numbers
Event partners
City of Bunbury
The City of Bunbury is a founding partner of IIF and will be a key partner for the first two conferences.
Bunbury, the city of three waters is a thriving regional hub nestled along the picturesque shores of Koombana Bay and Back Beach. It offers residents and visitors an exceptional quality of life through its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, diverse economic landscape, and vibrant community spirit. The city, as a central location, plays a critical role within the South West, offering a wealth of high-quality facilities, services and amenities.
Affordability is a significant strength offered in Bunbury to both investors and residents and continues to be a major drawcard for those seeking to enjoy a harmonious work-life balance. Bunbury’s location, healthy commercial activity, abundance of economic opportunities, commitment to innovation and flexible planning approaches, together with its high-quality lifestyle in a stunning oceanside landscape, makes it an ideal place to invest.
Bunbury is a thriving regional centre with a diverse economic and cultural outlook. A flourishing, digital city, Bunbury is a place where the technology, need and people capabilities co-exist to create opportunities for future industries and jobs of tomorrow. With the State Government’s commitment to regional innovation, Bunbury is a hub of new ideas and technology, a place where bright ideas can flourish.
South West Development Commission
The South West Development Commission is the host of IIF.
Here at the South West Development Commission, we’re building a sustainable future for Western Australia’s most populous region. We’re doing so by balancing economic and social transformation. We are making a positive difference in driving sustainable growth across our diverse industries and unique communities – supporting high quality of life, a strong economy and vibrant communities. Driving innovation and collaboration in our key industries is one of our priorities.
We support businesses in the region through programs such as the Regional Economic Development (RED) Grants, TradeStart and Local Content Advisor Network. Our projects include the Bunbury waterfront transformation. Find out more about these programs at www.swdc.wa.gov.au
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