In 2024–2025, RDA Southern NSW and ACT (RDASNA) delivered a revitalised series of Regional Connect events across all nine NSW local government areas and the ACT, engaging hundreds of local residents, business owners, councils, industry leaders, service providers and community organisations. These events played a pivotal role in informing the development of the new Regional Vision for Southern NSW and the ACT.

Designed as accessible, place-based conversations, the Regional Connect series brought people together to share what is working, what needs attention, and what opportunities they believe will shape the region’s next decade. The conversations were consistent, candid, and deeply grounded in lived experience-providing the “on-the-ground intelligence” essential to a meaningful Regional Vision.

The purpose of the 2024-025 Regional Connect program was twofold:

• Build connections across business, community and government.
• Collect local insights to guide RDASNA’s Strategic Regional Plan and inform long-term regional priorities.

Across the region, several strong themes emerged:

• Housing availability and affordability remain the most urgent blockers to workforce attraction, business growth and community wellbeing
• Transport and digital connectivity gaps continue to affect access to services, education and employment
• Workforce shortages are impacting every industry, especially healthcare, trades, hospitality, education and essential services
• Tourism, events and emerging industries (including renewable energy, clean technology and advanced manufacturing) present major growth opportunities
• Local business communities want more support with capability building, grants, networking and practical knowledge sharing
• Communities value liveability-safe towns, community infrastructure, natural assets and cultural vibrancy.

These insights were subsequently analysed alongside regional data to feed directly into RDASNA’s Regional Vision and Strategic Regional Plan.

The 2024–2025 Regional Connect series delivered more than engagement - it helped shape the future direction of regional development across Southern NSW and the ACT.

Regional Connect events will remain a cornerstone of RDASNA’s engagement model. The insights gathered through the 2024–2025 series are embedded in the draft Regional Vision and will continue to guide project prioritisation, advocacy, and collaborative investment aligned with the Regional Investment Framework.

By listening deeply and responding meaningfully, RDASNA is helping build a future where communities across Southern NSW and the ACT can thrive - together.