As we step into 2024, RDASI can't help but share our enthusiasm and anticipation for the incredible opportunities and collaborations that lie ahead.

November came with mixed outcomes for RDASI and our region. With the decision of the Department of Home Affairs to reduce the allocation of 491 Regional Visa’s for NSW, RDA’s will no longer be contracted by Investment NSW to assist with the delivery.

Planning has commenced for our Regional Connect Roadshows in 2024 with our expert steering committee nominating the subject matter they want to see delivered in our regions. Cyber security is at the top of minds, and so we’ll be bringing key information on how to protect your data, in the first part of the new year.

RDASI proudly supported Small Business Month events in the region and partnered with the Upper Lachlan Shire and Hilltops councils to present a Small Business Forum in both regions. Thanks to all our wonderful stakeholders who joined us, provided advice, and intelligence at the events. We so greatly appreciate Regional Tech Hub, Telstra, NBN Local, Department of Regional NSW, Local Land Service, NSW Farmers, AusIndustry, Enterprise Plus and Baytree Strategy for giving their time and enthusiasm to our regional communities.

The Welcome Experience in Goulburn has seen several new residents supported through the transition a move requires. This program has been developed with years of research, with the understanding that the first three months are key to settling and creating long term roots. I commend the State government for acknowledging this and we believe this program is already having a very positive effect.

RDASI is on the front foot when it comes to providing real, on-the-ground responses to government inquiries. Our August submission, was the Communications Legislation Amendment Bill (2023) and the responses to our survey providing the context to our submission, were certainly passionate. We appreciate the time it takes to complete these survey’s and thank everyone who responded. If you would like to read any of our submissions, please go to our website and check out our strategy page.

Our Board meetings are more than mere routine events, they hold incredible significance in shaping the course of our RDASI journey. Our Board comes together to breathe life into our mission and values. The collective power fuels progress and fosters a culture of excellence.

With the next roadshow of Regional Connect events now locked in, we are very excited to announce an expansion of the program into Queanbeyan-Palerang and Hilltops. Government grants are available for a vast array of development programs and we are bringing our grants extraordinaire, Tash Maguire on tour to talk you through grant writing tips and tricks.

There is more to Goulburn than grazing land and sheep. It’s a place for many different farming industries. When farmers have money, they circulate it round. When they are doing well, the towns are doing well.

National Ag Day is held on the 21st of November each year and brings awareness to the importance of Australia’s farmers and our agricultural sector. RDA Southern Inland, with support from a number of sponsors, organised the Southern Inland Ag Day Gala Dinner to recognise local farmers and agricultural businesses residing in the Southern Inland region.

Regional Development Australia Southern Inland (RDA Southern Inland) was delighted to receive a $10,000 grant from Coordinare - South Eastern NSW Primary Health Network, through their Empowering Communities Drought Support Program for Goulburn’s Ag Day Gala Dinners where the event will celebrate the contribution farmers make to our regional economy and provide an opportunity for farmers and the community to come together.