Survey Extended One Week - We Need Your Input!
Business NSW has extended its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey for ONE week, we need your input!.
Credit: Matt Beaver
Business NSW has extended its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey for ONE week, we need your input!.
The survey provides valuable insights into the skills and training needs of employers across NSW.
The 2024 survey found a shortage of skills across NSW, with 77% of employers indicating they were unable to recruit the people they need. Ongoing shortages continue to have an impact, with 38% of employers facing significant challenges as a result.
The data collected from the Riverina Murray will not only go into the full Business NSW Workforce Skills Survey report, but through a collaboration between RDA Riverina and Business NSW Riverina Murray, will also produce a more detailed report, focusing on the issues here in our region.
Your input will help us understand how employers are keeping pace with a dynamic and changing labour market, and inform improvements that help employers meet their skills needs.
Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development Australia - Riverina, said “We are thrilled to be working with Business NSW Riverina Murray to support the Business NSW 2025 Workforce Skills Survey. This collaboration with Business NSW Riverina Murray will give us more data to advocate for the needs of businesses in our region in addressing the workforce shortages.”
Business NSW 2025 Workforce Skills Survey
Business NSW has launched its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey.
Credit: Matt Beaver
Business NSW has launched its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey.
The survey provides valuable insights into the skills and training needs of employers across NSW.
The 2024 survey found a shortage of skills across NSW, with 77% of employers indicating they were unable to recruit the people they need. Ongoing shortages continue to have an impact, with 38% of employers facing significant challenges as a result.
The data collected from the Riverina Murray will not only go into the full Business NSW Workforce Skills Survey report, but through a collaboration between RDA Riverina and Business NSW Riverina Murray, will also produce a more detailed report, focusing on the issues here in our region.
Your input will help us understand how employers are keeping pace with a dynamic and changing labour market, and inform improvements that help employers meet their skills needs.
Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development Australia - Riverina, said “We are thrilled to be working with Business NSW Riverina Murray to support the Business NSW 2025 Workforce Skills Survey. This collaboration with Business NSW Riverina Murray will give us more data to advocate for the needs of businesses in our region in addressing the workforce shortages.”
The welcome experience september update
As we look ahead, TWE remains focused on creating meaningful first impressions and building lasting connections for those who choose to live and work in the Riverina.
New recruits to Murrumbidgee Police in Griffith
The Welcome Experience (TWE) had the privilege of welcoming eight new NSW Police probationary constables to Griffith, presenting them with welcome packs filled with local resources and community gifts to help them settle in and feel supported from day one.
Earlier in the month, TWE was invited to speak at the Beyond the Line event in Temora, where over 60 pre-service teachers and principals gathered to explore the opportunities and challenges of starting a career in regional education. The presentation offered a warm introduction to the Riverina and highlighted the value of community connection for those considering a move to the region.
Our local Welcomers continued to shine, with Mendie representing TWE at Tumut Library’s Open Day, and Alicia Pumpa receiving her welcome pack in Griffith after relocating. The packs—filled with practical items and local experiences—continue to be a highlight for new arrivals, helping them feel valued and informed as they settle in.
TWE also strengthened ties with Corrective Services, supporting partners of essential workers and exploring new ways to collaborate. Conversations with DCJ have opened doors to include career information and resources in future welcome kits, expanding the support we offer to those joining the region.
As we look ahead, TWE remains focused on creating meaningful first impressions and building lasting connections for those who choose to live and work in the Riverina.
Grow Our Own – September 2025 Update
September saw Grow Our Own deepen its regional partnerships and begin planning for 2026.
Students attending a tour at Leeton Hospital, August 2025
September saw Grow Our Own deepen its regional partnerships and begin planning for 2026. Following August’s successful health tours, feedback from Griffith Base Hospital highlighted the value of hands-on student engagement and the importance of clearer career pathway messaging. This insight is shaping the development of Riverina Health Careers Week, a new collaboration with RIEP set for May next year.
GOO also finalised its National Science Week reporting and acknowledged the support of local health partners. Planning is underway for the Term 4 Behind the School Gates event at Murrumbidgee Regional High School, continuing efforts to connect schools with local industry.
In Narrandera, GOO is working with schools and council to reschedule industry tours, ensuring new members are supported. Conversations also progressed around a new pilot program focused on aged care and childcare careers, with GOO, WorkForce Australia and RIEP agreeing to co-develop the initiative for launch in Griffith next year.
Feedback from schools and industry partners continues to affirm the impact of GOO. Career advisors praised the tours for giving students real-world insight into local career pathways, and several students have already taken up work experience and part-time roles as a result. These reflections reinforce the importance of continuing to build meaningful, locally driven career engagement across the Western Riverina.
wagga wagga country change expo
The Country Change Expo was held on Saturday, 13 September 2025, at the Transgrid Discovery Hub, Wagga Wagga, as part of Regional Development Australia Riverina’s strategic initiative to attract new residents to the region.
The Country Change Expo was held on Saturday, 13 September 2025, at the Transgrid Discovery Hub, Wagga Wagga, as part of Regional Development Australia Riverina’s strategic initiative to attract new residents to the region.
The Country Change Expo is a flagship regional initiative designed to promote relocation to the Riverina region. It showcases local employment opportunities, lifestyle benefits, and community services to prospective moves, with a strong emphasis on regional development and population growth. The expo is also a great way to expand the reach of knowledge about the great work being done through The Welcome Experience.
“The Expo is not just about showcasing jobs; it’s about showing people the whole picture - where they could work, where they could live, and how they could belong”
- Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development at RDA Riverina
Key Features of the Wagga Wagga Expo
Exhibitor Engagement: Councils, businesses, and community groups presented stalls to highlight local services, volunteering opportunities, and employment.
Sponsorship: APM Employment were secured as major sponsors of the Wagga Wagga and Griffith Expos, SWS Bank were secured as minor sponsors of the Wagga Wagga Expo.
Town Tours: Guided tours of Wagga Wagga, Temora, and Junee offered immersive experiences of regional living.
Welcome Event: Held at the Riverside Precinct, this evening gathering fostered networking and community connection for new arrivals and those considering a move.
Entertainment & Incentives: Live music, local radio station presence, interactive exhibits, balloons and free coffee vouchers for survey participants encouraged engagement.
Marketing Impact: Over 130 pre-event registrations and 300+ attendees were recorded, supported by targeted digital campaigns, media engagements and toolkits provided to partners, stakeholders and participants.
The next Country Change Expo will take place in Griffith on Saturday, 25 October 2025, at Kooyoo Street Mall. It will mirror the Wagga Wagga format with town tours, a welcome event, and strong community involvement. Alignment with The Welcome Experience will target essential workers, their partners and families, who have relocated or are considering relocating.
Flavourtech Awarded Business of the Year at 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards
Business NSW has announced the winners of the 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards, with Griffith-based company Flavourtech taking out the prestigious title of Business of the Year. The awards ceremony was held at Piccolo Family Farm in Griffith on Friday 19 September.
Image Credit: Giorgio Trovato
Media Release: Business NSW
Business NSW has announced the winners of the 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards, with Griffith-based company Flavourtech taking out the prestigious title of Business of the Year. The awards ceremony was held at Piccolo Family Farm in Griffith on Friday 19 September.
Flavourtech earned the top honour after winning both the Excellence in International Business and Excellence in Large Business categories. The company was recognised for its innovation, ethical practices, community engagement, and global reputation. Their their commitment to workforce development also received special acknowledgement. This marks Flavourtech’s second time receiving the Business of the Year award, having previously won in 2021.
The awards program featured 20 categories celebrating leadership, sustainability, innovation, diversity and inclusion, and the visitor economy. Winners from the regional awards will go on to represent the Riverina Murray region at the Business NSW State Business Awards, to be held at the ICC in Sydney on 29 October 2025.
Click the button below to read the full media release and explore the complete list of award winners.
New Rest Area Funding Boosts Safety for Regional Truck Drivers
The Australian Government is investing $3.6 million in four new projects to improve safety and comfort for truck drivers travelling on regional freight routes. The funding is part of the broader $140 million Heavy Vehicle Rest Area (HVRA) initiative, which has now supported 25 new and upgraded rest areas across Australia.
Image Credit: Sander Yigin
Minister Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Senator The Hon Anthony Chisholm, Assistant Minister for Regional Development; Senator Glenn Sterle, Senator for Western Australia
The Australian Government is investing $3.6 million in four new projects to improve safety and comfort for truck drivers travelling on regional freight routes. The funding is part of the broader $140 million Heavy Vehicle Rest Area (HVRA) initiative, which has now supported 25 new and upgraded rest areas across Australia.
The latest projects include:
New parking, toilet blocks, and picnic shelters at the Kyeamba Rest Area between Yass and Albury.
A new female toilet block at the Nhill Trailer Exchange in Western Victoria.
Two new rest areas at Wiawera and Black Springs in South Australia, each with space for four vehicles, sheltered tables, and seating.
These upgrades aim to provide truck drivers with safe and comfortable facilities for their breaks, helping reduce fatigue and improve road safety.
Truck drivers are encouraged to contribute to future planning by completing the Heavy Vehicle Rest Areas Survey. The survey takes less than five minutes and helps identify priority locations for future rest area developments.
This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to supporting freight operations and enhancing road safety in partnership with state governments and industry stakeholders.
Australia Launches Refreshed National Freight Strategy and Action Plan
The Australian Government has released an updated National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, along with a new five-year National Action Plan, to strengthen Australia’s freight networks and supply chains.
Image: Andy Li
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
The Australian Government has released an updated National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, along with a new five-year National Action Plan, to strengthen Australia’s freight networks and supply chains.
Originally launched in 2019, the strategy has been refreshed in response to recent challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical sifts, extreme weather events, and workforce shortages. With Australia’s freight task expected to grow by 26% between 2020 and 2050, the updated strategy aims to ensure the sector remains resilient, efficient, and future-ready.
The refreshed Strategy focuses on four key priority areas:
Productivity
Resilience
Decarbonisation
Data
These priorities are designed to support more efficient supply chains and guide collaborative action between governments and industry across all freight modes.
The accompanying National Action Plan outlines a series of nationally significant actions to be delivered over the next five years. Safety remains a core focus across all initiatives.
Key actions include:
Developing a National Freight Resilience Plan to improve responses to supply chain disruptions.
Creating a Freight Infrastructure Investment Framework to guide infrastructure decisions.
Conducting safety research on batteries and zero-emission technologies for freight vehicles and locomotives.
Promoting the adoption of safety and productivity-enhancing technologies.
Modelling current and future freight networks to support long-term planning and efficiency.
This strategy and Action Plan aim to ensure Australia’s roads, railways, ports, and supply chains can meet growing industry and consumer demands while reducing while reducing emissions and improving safety.
Local Radio Strengthened with Over 130 Emergency Resilience Projects
The Australian Government has completed 131 broadcasting resilience projects across Australia to ensure local radio services remain operational during emergencies. Delivered through the $20 million Broadcasting Resilience Program (BRP), these upgrades are helping communities stay connected, safe, and informed when it matters most.
Image Credit: Elijah Merrell
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport
The Australian Government has completed 131 broadcasting resilience projects across Australia to ensure local radio services remain operational during emergencies. Delivered through the $20 million Broadcasting Resilience Program (BRP), these upgrades are helping communities stay connected, safe, and informed when it matters most.
The program has upgraded 98 ABC AM and FM broadcast sites, improving their ability to withstand power outages and severe weather events. In addition, 48 sites received emergency power upgrades, which have already provided over 1,200 hours of backup power during critical incidents.
Five mobile broadcasting assets were also deployed under the BRP. These units can be rapidly dispatched to areas where transmission has failed, restoring local radio services and offering mobile charging capabilities. One such deployment occurred in June on Dunk Island, Queensland, where a power cable cut caused widespread outages. A mobile unit from Mount Bellenden Ker was sent to the island and restored services within 24 hours.
The BRP has proven effective during recent emergencies, including floods in Tasmania, storms in Wilcannia (NSW), and bushfires in Dimbulah (QLD).
Delivered by BAI Communications, the BRP is part of the Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia. This broader initiative includes $400 million to improve mobile coverage and enhance the resilience of communications infrastructure nationwide.
Bradman’s Baggy Green Joins the National Museum Collection
One of Sir Donald Bradman’s iconic Baggy Green caps has been acquired by the National Museum of Australia, thanks to funding from the Australian Government’s National Cultural Heritage Account.
Image Credit: Scott Webb
Media Release: The Hon Tony Burke MP, Minister for the Arts; Susan Templeman MP, Special Envoy for the Arts
One of Sir Donald Bradman’s iconic Baggy Green caps has been acquired by the National Museum of Australia, thanks to funding from the Australian Government’s National Cultural Heritage Account.
The cap was worn by Bradman during the 1946-47 Ashes Series in Australia, a historic post-war tour that marked the beginning of a dominant era for the national cricket team. It is one of only two know Baggy Greens from that series, making it a rare and culturally significant artefact.
This acquisition preserves a powerful symbol of Australian sporting history and national pride. The cap represents a time when cricket heroes like Bradman brought hope and unity to Australians following the hardships of World War II.
The Baggy Green will be displayed in the Museum’s permanent Landmarks gallery, which explores Australia’s broad history. The gallery includes a dedicated section on sport and features other Bradman memorabilia.
The National Cultural Heritage Account was established to help Australian cultural institutions acquire and safeguard important heritage objects. This latest purchase ensures that future generations can connect with defining moments in Australia’s sporting legacy.
Faster Broadband Coming to Over 600,000 Australian Premises
The Australian Government has announced a major upgrade to the National Broadband Network (NBN), bringing faster and more reliable internet to approximately 622,000 households and businesses across Australia.
Image Credit: Dreamlike Street
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport; Senator The Hon Katy Gallagher, Minister for Finance, Minister for Women, Minister for the Public Service
The Australian Government has announced a major upgrade to the National Broadband Network (NBN), bringing faster and more reliable internet to approximately 622,000 households and businesses across Australia.
This final stage of fibre to the node upgrades is already underway, with more than 228,000 premises currently being worked on. The initiative is backed by a government equity injection of up to $3 billion, alongside an $800 million contribution from NBN Co.
More than 95% of the targeted premises will be upgraded to full fibre, enabling access to the NBN’s fastest upload and download speeds. These upgrades are expected to deliver significant economic benefits, with Accenture modelling forecasting a $10.4 billion cumulative uplift in GDP over the next decade. Households could also save over 100 hours and $2,580 annually avoided travel time.
This latest investment builds on the Government’s previous $2.4 billion commitment to fibre upgrades, which are on track to benefit 1.5 million premises nationwide. The upgrades also complement the expansion of the fixed wireless footprint and the recent partnership between NBN Co and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, which will deliver broadband via Low Earth Orbit Satellites.
The Australian Government continues to prioritise connectivity, recognising that fast, affordable internet is essential for productivity and modern living.
Newell Highway Upgrade Complete Between Narrabri and Moree
The three-year upgrade of the Newell Highway between Narrabri and Moree is now complete, delivering major improvements to one of regional New South Wales’ most important freight routes.
Image Credit: Joseph two
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; The Hon Jenny Aitchison MP, Minister for Roads, Minister for Regional Transport; Glenn Sterle, Senator for Western Australia; Roy Butler, Member for Barwon
The three-year upgrade of the Newell Highway between Narrabri and Moree is now complete, delivering major improvements to one of regional New South Wales’ most important freight routes.
Funded jointly by the Australian and NSW Governments, the $261.17 million Newell Highway Heavy Duty Pavement Upgrade has transformed over 20 kilometres of road. The project included intersection upgrades, widened shoulders, and five new overtaking lanes to improve safety and traffic flow.
Works were delivered across four priority sections:
8 km south of Moree, including a new culvert at Clarks Gully and intersection upgrades at Burrington Road, Tapscott Road, and Wallanol Road.
4.4 km around Bellata, with upgrades to Temi Road, North Street, Wilga Street, and Oak Street,
5.6 km around Edgeroi, including the Smithfeild Lane intersection.
2.6 km north of Narrabri, with a new culvert at Murrumbilla Lane.
The final piece of the project is the new Spring Creek Rest Area, now the largest heavy vehicle rest stop in the north-west region. It offers short and long-term parking for up to 18 heavy vehicles, plus dedicated spaces for light vehicles and those towing caravans or trailers. Amenities include accessible toilets, picnic, shelters, bins, solar lighting, and over 500 newly planted trees for shade.
Construction crews used significant resources, including 3900 cubic metres of structural concrete, 8900 tonnes of asphalt, 700 tonnes of steel, and 575,000 tonnes of pavement material and gravel. Despite losing 118 days to bad weather, the project remained on track.
Minor finishing works such as fencing, signage, and final sealing are scheduled for early 2026.
Australia Invests $1.1 Billion to Boost Cleaner Fuel Production
The Australian Government has announced a landmark $1.1 billion investment to accelerate the domestic production of low carbon liquid fuels, marking a major step towards cleaner energy and stronger fuel security.
Image Credit: Dawn McDonald
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King MP, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; The Hon Jim Chalmers MP, Treasurer; The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy; The Hon Julie Collins MP, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
The Australian Government has announced a landmark $1.1 billion investment to accelerate the domestic production of low carbon liquid fuels, marking a major step towards cleaner energy and stronger fuel security.
The funding will support the new ten-year Cleaner Fuels Program, designed to stimulate private investment in onshore production of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. These “drop-in” fuels are compatible with existing engines and infrastructure, with the first production expected by 2029.
Australia is well-positioned to lead in this space, thanks to it’s abundant feedstocks such as canola, sorghum, sugar, and waste, and access to reliable renewable energy. Currently, liquid fuels account for around half of the nation’s energy use. Replacing fossil fuels with cleaner alternatives presents a significant opportunity to reduce emissions and grow the economy.
The Clean Energy Finance Corporation estimates that a mature Australian low carbon liquid fuel industry could be worth $36 billion by 2050, with the potential to reduce cumulative emissions by 230 million tonnes CO₂-e, equivalent to the annual emissions of 86 million cars.
Funding will be awarded through a competitive process, with eligibility criteria to be shaped by public consultation. The initiative builds on existing government programs including the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Funding Initiative and the Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund.
To further support the industry, the Government is expanding the Guarantee of Origin Scheme to include low carbon liquid fuels and has introduced a fuel quality standard for renewable diesel.
This investment aims to strengthen Australia’s fuel supply chain, support regional jobs, and position the country as a key player in the global transition to net zero.
The Australian Government Advances Regional Telecommunications Reform
The Australian Government is taking significant steps to improve connectivity across Australia with the release of draft legislation for the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO). This initiative aims to ensure that mobile voices and text services are accessible outdoors almost anywhere Australians can see the sky.
Image Credit: NASA Hubble Space Telescope
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications and Minister for Sport
The Australian Government is taking significant steps to improve connectivity across Australia with the release of draft legislation for the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO). This initiative aims to ensure that mobile voices and text services are accessible outdoors almost anywhere Australians can see the sky.
As part of the Government’s response to the 2024 Regional Telecommunications Review, UOMO is expected to expand basic outdoor mobile coverage by over 5 million square kilometres. The reform will benefit regional and remote communities by enhancing access to essential telecommunications services, particularly in areas currently underserved.
Mobile network operators will be required to provide reasonable outdoor coverage using a mix of existing infrastructure and emerging direct-to-device (D2D) technology, supported by Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats). This approach is designed to modernise Australia’s universal service arrangements and reduce digital divide.
The Government is inviting feedback on the draft legislation until 19 October2025. Alongside this, it continues to invest in programs such as the Mobile Black Spot Program and the Mobile Network Hardening Program to improve mobile coverage, resilience, and capacity.
Additional efforts include upgrades to the NBN and the expansion of its fixed wireless footprint. NBN Co will also use LEOSats from Project Kuiper to deliver high-speed broadband to rural and remote areas.
These reforms reflect the Government’s commitment to supporting economic growth, increasing productivity, and meeting Australia’s growing demand for reliable digital connectivity.
Game On: New Funding to Help Community Sports Clubs Tackle Climate Change
The Australian Government has announced a major investment in grassroots sport with the launch of the Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action program. This initiative will deliver $50 million over four years to support up to 500 community sporting clubs across Australia in taking practical climate action.
Image Credit: Emile-Victor Portenart
Media Release: The Hon Anika Wells MP, Minister for Communications and Minister for Sport; and The Hon Chris Bowen MP, Minister for Climate Change and Energy
The Australian Government has announced a major investment in grassroots sport with the launch of the Game On: Teaming Up for Climate Action program. This initiative will deliver $50 million over four years to support up to 500 community sporting clubs across Australia in taking practical climate action.
Local clubs will be able to access funding for upgrades such as improved shade and drainage, solar panels, battery storage, and energy-efficient systems. These enhancements aim to reduce energy bills, improve climate resilience, and ensure facilities remain safe and accessible in the face of increasingly extreme weather events.
With over 14 million Australians using community sport facilities, the program is designed to strengthen the role of sport in local communities while helping clubs redirect savings into essential areas like equipment, participation programs for girls, and development pathways for young athletes and officials.
The initiative complements existing government efforts, including the $100 million Community Energy Upgrades Fund, and aligns with broader climate and energy goals. It also encourages private sector involvement, inviting energy companies, banks, and equipment providers to partner in futureproofing community sport.
Inspired by successful grassroots climate initiatives such as Cricket for Climate, the program represents a significant step towards empowering communities to adapt to climate challenges while keeping sport thriving at the local level.
Upcoming Works Across the Olympic Highway - Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays
The EnergyConnect project team are continuing to advance construction activities on the transmission like from Dinawan, NSW to Wagga Wagga Via Lockhart.
Image Credit: Elecnor Australia
The EnergyConnect project team are continuing to advance construction activities on the transmission like from Dinawan, NSW to Wagga Wagga Via Lockhart.
Work to prepare for the transmission line stringing will take place on Monday 8 September and Wednesday 10 September 2025, along the Olympic Highway approximately 3km south of Uranquinty.
From Saturday 13 September to Sunday 21 September 2025, crews will install draw wire and pull conductor wire across the highway.
Further works are scheduled to resume from Monday 29 September through to Wednesday 1 October 2025, weather permitting.
Traffic control will be in place while work is underway to ensure the safety of both motorists and construction crews. Speed limits will vary from 100km/hr to 40km/hr throughout the work zone, and drivers may experience delays of up to 15 minutes.
The public can also anticipate an increase in heavy equipment on local roads in and around the Olympic Highway associated with stringing activities. Stringing will also take place across the ARTC railway line during this time, with six to seven cranes operating in the area.
Please keep to the signposted speed limits, follow the direction of traffic controllers, and drive to the conditions.
Read the full notification here: Construction Notification
Have Your Say: Upper Murrumbidgee Drought Operating Framework
The Australian Government is seeking public feedback on the Draft Upper Murrumbidgee River River - Drought Operating Framework, which outlines how water will be managed during drought conditions over the next two years.
Image Credit: Urvish Oza
The Australian Government is seeking public feedback on the Draft Upper Murrumbidgee River River - Drought Operating Framework, which outlines how water will be managed during drought conditions over the next two years.
This framework is designed to guide decisions about water releases, storage, and accounting in the Upper Murrumbidgee River, with the goal of supporting river health, downstream communities, and energy operations like Snowy Hydro.
Key aspects include:
Triggers for water releases based on river conditions
Timing and volum of release
Water accounting and valuation
Environmental and community impacts
This is a short-term plan, with broader review of long-term water management strategies to follow.
Public consultation is open until 5pm on Thursday, 11 September 2025.
Regional Leaders Unite at Parliament House to Champion Regional NSW
On August 6, 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) NSW & ACT brought together a powerful coalition of regional leaders, government officials, and community advocates at NSW Parliament House for the Friends of Regional NSW event.
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Featured: RDA NSW & ACT CEO’s and Chairs
On August 6, 2025, Regional Development Australia (RDA) NSW & ACT brought together a powerful coalition of regional leaders, government officials, and community advocates at NSW Parliament House for the Friends of Regional NSW event.
The gathering celebrated the strength and resilience of regional communities and reinforced the importance of collaboration between local voices and government decision-makers. Hosted by RDA NSW & ACT Chair Anna Guillan AM, the event featured a keynote address from The Hon Tara Moriarty MLC, Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW, and Western NSW.
Minister Moriarty highlighted the critical role of regional communities is shaping the future of New South Wales and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equitable investment and support across the state.
The event underscored key themes including:
Place-based policy development
Data-informed decision-making
The value of lived experience in shaping regional outcomes
With RDA representatives, MPs, senior public servants, and regional stakeholders in attendance, the event served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when regional voices are heard and empowered.
As the RDA network continues to advocate for sustainable growth and opportunity across NSW, events like this play a vital role in building the partnerships that drive real change.
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
Image courtesy of Regional Development Australia NSW & ACT by Camera Creations
New Rail Safety Tech Trial Launched Near Quirindi to Save Lives
A ground breaking trial of new rail safety technology has officially launched at the Callaghans Lane Level Crossing near Quirindi, marking a major step forward in protecting regional communities from level crossing accidents.
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
Image Credit: Chris Bair
A ground breaking trial of new rail safety technology has officially launched at the Callaghans Lane Level Crossing near Quirindi, marking a major step forward in protecting regional communities from level crossing accidents.
The $1.2 million trial, a joint initiative between the Australian and NSW Governments, Transport for NSW, the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC), and Rail Safety Systems, features the Rail Active Crossing System (RAXS), a firs-of-its-kind solution designed specifically for rural and remote areas.
How it Works:
The RAXS system transforms a passive level crossing into an active one using:
Wireless train detection
Flashing lights and bells
Solar-powered, modular design
Advanced warning signage
This setup alerts motorists when a train is approaching, significantly improving safety at crossings that previously relied only on static signs.
Why it Matters:
The Callaghans Lane site was chosen due to its tragic history, including a fatal crash in 2023. With over 2,700 level crossings in NSW, and more than 850 of them passively controlled, the need for innovative, cost-effective safety solutions in urgent.
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine king said the trial is part of the $180.1 million Regional Australia Level Crossing Safety Program, which supports infrastructure upgrades and new technologies to reduce fatalities.
What’s Next?
The trial will run through mid-2026, with monitoring in place to assess how drivers respond to the system. Cameras installed for the trial will not be used for enforcement and will be removed afterward.
If successful, the RAXS system could be rolled out more broadly, offering a faster, more affordable way to upgrade regional crossings, potentially activating three sites for the cost of one traditional upgrade.
$68 Million for Life-Saving Road Upgrades Across Australia
The Australian Government has announced a major investment of over $63 million to improve road safety and infrastructure across regional and rural communities. This funding, delivered through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP), will support 23 new projects aimed at saving lives, reducing travel times, and enhancing connectivity.
Image Credit: Tom Shamberger
Media Release: The Hon Catherine King, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
The Australian Government has announced a major investment of over $63 million to improve road safety and infrastructure across regional and rural communities. This funding, delivered through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program (SLRIP), will support 23 new projects aimed at saving lives, reducing travel times, and enhancing connectivity.
The Upgrade Will Include:
Road realignments and shoulder sealing
Installation of safety barriers and rumble strips
Bridge and culvert replacements
Flood resilience improvements
Heavy vehicle rest areas and wash bays
State-by-State Breakdown:
NSW: $22.4 million for 8 projects
VIC: $19.5 million for 7 projects
QLD: $15.6 million for 5 projects
TAS: $4.8 million for 2 projects
WA: $1.4 million for 1 project
Local Impact:
Projects like the Wyndham Street Bridge replacement in Greta, NSW, and the Buangor-Ben Nevis Road reconstruction in Victoria are just a few examples of how this funding will directly benefit local communities.
Supporting Safer Roads:
Infrastructure Minister Catherine King emphasised the importance of supporting local government and reducing administrative burdens, ensuring that communities can focus on delivering safer roads for everyone.