A Decade of The Dialogue

Ten years ago, the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue began as a conversation between a few passionate Westies – a call to action to address the imbalance between East & West and to give Greater Western Sydney the political, investment and media voice it deserved.

The Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue looked back on this decade of growth (and forward to the next period) as we marked our 10th Anniversary at a Gala Dinner with NSW Premier Chris Minns. The event hosted at Accor Stadium, the place where Premier Baird launched the Dialogue in 2015 and where Western Sydney hosted the world in the 2000 Olympics.

A decade on and the massive city shaping we have witnessed proves that this enhanced voice was needed. A new international airport is due to open next year, and Metro lines, motorways, and light rail have started to address the tyranny of distance that we have traditionally been subjected to. Parramatta Square, Bradfield and other commercial hubs are leading the charge in delivering smart jobs, while relocated universities, upgraded TAFE campuses and new schools are driving educational advantage, and a huge number of new hospital beds are easing social exclusion.  

Over the past decade the Dialogue has grown into a force for change – a catalyst for infrastructure investment, government engagement and economic reform that has helped reposition Western Sydney as Australia’s opportunity region. However, we know that none of that would’ve been possible without our partners, our patrons and our champions. Your belief, support and shared commitment have been at the heart of our journey.