RDASI is excited to be able to finally announce our successful tender bid to be the host agency for the new State government program, the Key Worker, Welcome experience in Goulburn. This is a pilot for the first twelve months, with the intention for it to run over three years and as such, we will be implementing the program whilst also providing direct intel to the state government to improve and develop the project moving forward.

February was a jam packed month, which saw our Regional Connect events kick off for the year with a bang. They were so successful that we’re expanding them to include two additional LGAs. February also saw the regional visa program have another recent change in criteria, making it easier for skilled migrants to apply for the 491 visa.

Our team has been working at peak capacity and with that has come a succession of successful engagements. When we’re out in our regions, we make sure to speak to as many people as we can. We like to hear your perspectives, what’s challenging you and of course, what’s going really well. We meet with councils, tertiary educators, state government representatives, non-profit organisations, business advisors, chambers of commerce and most importantly businesses and the people who own and run them.

Suzanne Gearing, RDASI's Deputy Chair and myself were lucky enough to attend the latest Jindabyne Connect at the end of last month with some of the Jindabyne Connect Business Owners, Kristy McBain, the local Federal Member and Olivier Kapetanakos, the Jindabyne Chamber President.

We know this year continues to be challenging for many regional businesses and communities and we’d like to support you in any way that we can. Please reach out if you need assistance, especially with visa’s, grants or advocacy.

Welcome Phil Gibson to the RDA Southern Inland team. Phil started with us as our Grants and Projects Officer. Phil has extensive experience in grant writing and funding acquisition and is available to assist businesses and community groups with the application process on a fee-for-service basis.