REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA (RDA) - NEW REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

A TIME OF TRANSITION

Change is afoot and the Board and staff of WBBACC are rolling up their sleeves in preparation for Regional Development Australia – the Australian Government’s new network for regional development.

On January 1, 2009, the national Network of Area Consultative Committees (ACCs) will become Regional Development Australia (RDA)
Committees. In a statement made by the new Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, on 20 March 2008, he broadly outlined the role of RDA:

“…..The new RDA network will build on the success of its predecessor, but will take on a broader role to develop strategic input
into national programs to improve the coordination of regional development initiatives and ensure that there is effective engagement
with local communities…..”

The Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Development, the Hon Gary Gray AO MP on 1st August 2008 stated

“……RDA will have a much broader and more strategic role than the previous network. ….. By building on and replacing the ACCs, RDA offers a real opportunity to provide a supporting mechanism for communities with a vision and the determination to make that vision a reality.”

The new RDA will be a national network that ensures there is effective engagement with local communities.

HAVE YOUR SAY

In shaping both the new RDA structure and the new RLCIP, ACCs have been asked by the Parliamentary Secretary to consult with their regions and provide advice to the Government on three issues:
• First, on improving the engagement of regional communities, regional development organisations and local governments with the Australian Government.
• Second, on the principles and priorities for the new Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program.
• Third, on the priorities for the types of local community infrastructure that could encourage economic development in local communities.

WBBACC’s Chair Mr Bill Trevor and Executive Officer Mr Cameron Bisley, has been out and about talking to key stakeholders. Local Councils and State Government officers, community organisations, elected members, and industry and business associations have been approached to provide face-to-face input regarding the new role for WBBACC and the priorities for the new RLCIP. 

A report on the first issue is due on August 31st and will cover:

• Potential role of RDA committees
• Boundaries of RDA committees in QLD
• Committee structure and membership
• Reporting responsibilities

If you haven’t yet had an opportunity to put forward your ideas, we invite you to do so now and in whatever way you choose. Phone, email, fax, or a formal written submission are all welcome. If you’d like a template of topics that you can complete in Word and return by email, please contact Cameron at cameron@wbbacc.com.au.

A NEW REGIONAL FUNDING PROGRAM

The announcement of the new Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program (RLCIP) was made as part of the Australian Government’s new direction for regional Australia in the 2008-09 Federal Budget. The RLCIP, together with the Better Regions election commitments, will replace the Sustainable Regions and Regional Partnerships Programs. This program will “…deliver major investments in regional and local community, recreational and environmental infrastructure initiatives.”

The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development & Local Government is conducting an inquiry into the future role and structure of regional funding. An aspect of the Committee’s work is to examine the former Government’s practices and grants outlined in the ANAO report on Regional Partnerships. The Committee “…..will also make recommendations on ways to invest funding in community infrastructure and regional economic initiatives to enhance the sustainability and liveability of Australia’s regions.”

The findings and recommendations from the Inquiry will assist with the development of the new RLCIP. (WBBACC submitted its views to the Inquiry based on consultations with proponents of the Regional Partnerships Program. Further information about the Inquiry can be found at www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/itrdlg/regionaldevelopment/subs.htm)

The creation of the RLCIP is part of a wider range of initiatives designed to benefit all Australians, including:
• Regional Development Australia
• Better Regions Program
• Infrastructure Australia
• Office of Northern Australia
• Major Cities Unit
• Council of Australian Local Governments

More information about these is available at http://www.acc.gov.au/

The Regional Partnerships program is now closed.

No new RPP applications will be accepted by the Department and applications currently under assessment will not be considered for funding. Projects approved by the previous government, but without a fully executed funding agreement, are withdrawn.

Applicants will be formally notified by letter of the programme’s closure. For more information please call the Regional Partnerships Information Line - 1800 038 160.

The administration of the Fund will now reside within the Department of Health and Ageing portfolio. Applications currently under assessment and those approved for funding but not yet contracted, will be forwarded to the Department for consideration. Projects with an executed funding agreement in place will continue to be managed by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government.
For further information, contact the Regional Partnerships hotline on 1800 038 160.