Our 2026 Focus Plan

In 2026, NRFABCON’s newly formed committee took a practical approach to strategic thinking. Rather than developing a full strategic plan before the organisation had the foundations in place, the committee created a Focus Plan — a working blueprint that is tabled at every meeting to guide the year’s priorities in a structured and transparent way.

This approach was agreed on at the February 2026 committee meeting. The thinking was straightforward: build the organisation’s capabilities first, grow the membership, and generate enough momentum to then develop a meaningful long-term strategic plan from a position of strength.

The Focus Plan is built around four priorities for 2026.

Priority 1 — Rebuild the Organisation

By December 2026, NRFABCON will be operating smoothly with simple, fit-for-purpose governance, insurance and core systems in place. This includes updating and creating key governance documents, confirming insurance cover, consolidating records, and establishing clear finance processes. The committee will also review membership categories and investigate funding models to ensure the organisation is on a sustainable footing.

Priority 2 — Reconnect and Grow the Network

By December 2026, the NRFABCON network will be clearly active again — with a live website, re-established membership, and a small program of events underway. This includes launching the website, running a membership re-engagement campaign, delivering two to three events including an on-country day, and formalising partner relationships through MOUs and reciprocity agreements.

Priority 3 — Get a Flagship “Good Fire” Project Moving

By December 2026, NRFABCON will have developed its Grassy Ecosystems flagship project concept through workshops and in active partnership with key organisations including Jagun Alliance, NPWS, councils and Landcare groups. The goal is to secure at least one grant or partner commitment and deliver practical workshops focused on the project.

Priority 4 — Start a Knowledge and Training Offering

By December 2026, NRFABCON will be recognised as a key source of “good fire” information in the Northern Rivers. This means gathering and sharing existing resources for practitioners and landholders, building a resources section on the website, capturing case studies from events, and developing regional maps showing on-ground fire projects and fire-interval status.