About Regional Development Australia

Regional Development Australia (RDA) is an Australian Government initiative that brings together all levels of government to support the growth and development of regional Australia.  RDA is delivered through a national network of 55 committees who build partnerships between governments, regional development organisations, local businesses, community groups and key regional stakeholders to provide strategic and targeted responses to social, economic and environmental issues affecting regional Australia. The RDA National Charter [PDF: 48 KB] sets out the areas of focus for the RDA network.  The RDA National Roles and Responsibilities [PDF: 59 KB] sets out the roles and responsibilities of the RDA network.

Each committee comprises of local leaders with broad and diverse skills and experience. Committee members are individuals who understand the challenges, opportunities and priorities within their region.  Appointments to committees are made by the:

• Minister for Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government;

• In most jurisdictions, the state or territory government minister responsible for regional development; and

• In some jurisdictions the local government association.

These appointments are made through an open and public Expression of Interest process.

The Australian Government provides funding to support the operation of committees.  In some jurisdictions, state, territory and local governments also provide funding or other forms of support.

The details of committees, including membership and contact details, can be found under State and Territory Information.