Murray Now

Newly formed Regional Development Australia Murray intends to play a leading role in developing and strengthening Murray Region communities.

Regional Development Australia (RDA) is an Australian Government initiative that aims to bring together all levels of government to enhance the growth and development of regional Australia.

RDA Murray, in consultation and collaboration with business, industry groups, community, research & education institutions, non profit organisations and all levels of government, will articulate local priorities, identify and align resources, engage stakeholders and promote solutions across the Murray Region.

"RDA Murray will be a conduit between government and local communities and a provider of information," Barbara Hull from Regional Development Australia Murray said.

"We're all about building partnerships and working with all levels of government, community and industry stakeholders to drive growth in our region."

By co-ordinating resources, knowledge and expertise, RDA Murray will focus on five key areas:

Consultation and Engagement with the Community

RDA Murray will initiate and participate in regional consultations and strategic planning on a range of issues, such as infrastructure, telecommunications, housing, health and ageing, education, skills development and high speed broadband.

Informed Regional planning

Many government and non-government organisations in regional Australia have their own regional plan, which can be an area of duplication. RDA Murray will facilitate a closer alignment between all levels of government, as well as between government and stakeholders, minimising this duplication and developing a consistent and comprehensive regional plan.

Whole-of-Government Activities

RDA Murray will be a first point of contact for information about Australian and State Government programs, services and initiatives and the source of consistent reliable information from governments.

Promotion of Government Programs

RDA Murray will provide information and advice to their communities about ways in which they can engage with government programs, policies and initiatives bringing stakeholders with the same interests together and conducting grant-writing workshops.

Community and Economic Development

It will be the role of RDA Murray to identify key priorities to enhance the resilience and access of resources needed for sustainable social and economic development and environmental management. Social inclusion activities will centre on programs for disadvantaged groups, providing facilitation of social interaction, financial support, improved housing, access to services, education and helping unemployed people find jobs. A particular focus will be identifying capacity building programs for Indigenous Australians.

"By taking a leadership role and consulting with business and community organisations, RDA Murray will be perfectly placed to articulate local priorities, identify and align resources, engage stakeholders and promote solutions for the growth and development of our region," Ms Hull said.

For further information on RDA Murray please contact: 02 6058 0600 or visit www.rdamurray.org.au.