PROJECT ENERGY CONNECT - SUPPLY CHAIN OPPORTUNITIES PRESENTATIONS

Regional Development Australia organisations are connectors. RDAs are NFP non-government organisations who work to deliver economic development in 53 regions around Australia. We have voluntary Boards with local people passionate about the region and Chairs who are appointed by Minister Nola Marino. Minister Marino has set an energetic tone and focussed RDAs on developing local procurement opportunities, jobs and investment. 

RDA Murray and Riverina have great track records bringing people together to facilitate community, business and industry development to bring more investment into the region from the Snowys to the SA Border. We each have specific workforce and local procurement initiatives and would be pleased to discuss your needs and ideas to make the most of this project in our region.

SecureEnergy is a Nationally Significant Project with 100s of millions of dollars being invested in infrastructure in our region which will enable the growing use of renewable energy across Australia. We are committed to you to ensure our region benefits as much as possible from this investment.

SecureEnergy is a joint venture between Clough and Elecnor, two global leaders with local knowledge in delivering engineering, procurement and construction projects for the power infrastructure industry. SecureEnergy on behalf of TrnsGrid will build EnergyConnect, a 700km overhead electricity transmission line and one of the nation’s largest energy infrastructure projects.

Find out more about the upcoming supply chain opportunities in the presentations below.

Each of the three videos contains the same presentation followed by a question and answer session. The questions answered in each session are different. Please feel welcome to contact Rachel Whiting on 0429 444 213 and ceo@rdariverina.org.au at Regional Development Australia Riverina or Edwina Hayes at Regional Development Australia Murray on 0427 267 753 and edwina.hayes@rdamurray.org.au . You can find us on social media under our names and “Regional Development Australia” Murray or Riverina

August 25th Morning Presentation - Q&A session begins at 45 minutes and 30 seconds.

August 25th Evening Presentation - Q&A session begins at 41 minutes.

August 26th Morning Presentation - Q&A session begins at 45 minutes and 35 seconds.

Taste Riverina highlights local business efforts during lockdown

Taste Riverina has responded to the 7 day state-wide NSW lockdown, announced on Saturday 14th August 2021 (since extended by a further 7 days), by stepping up their program of promoting Riverina-based food and beverage growers, producers, makers and sellers on social media.

Operated by Visit Riverina (the Riverina’s regional tourism organisation), Taste Riverina is encouraging everyone to support our local businesses by purchasing vouchers, getting takeaway food (within 5km of home / your local LGA) and buying online either for yourself or for loved ones you can’t be with right now.

Visit Riverina Chair, Brent Lawrence, says “We know that our local businesses are doing it tough right now after a really turbulent 18 months of interrupted and changing trade conditions. The Riverina is a diverse region with an abundance of local produce, and cafes and restaurants that highlight the quality food and drink that is grown and made here. It’s important for us to support each other during this time and Taste Riverina is ready and willing to promote what people are doing to get through it.”

How to get involved

If you are a Riverina business offering any of these services, or other innovative products, Taste Riverina wants to hear from you! Either contact them directly at marketing@theriverina.com.au or tag them @TasteRiverina on Facebook, or @tasteriverina on Instagram to share your updates. You can also use the hashtag #tasteriverina to get their attention.

If you’re a customer you can also let them know that your favourite Riverina businesses are offering these services by tagging Taste Riverina in the comments.

ABC Heywire Competition Opens

Heywire is an opportunity for young rural Australians to have their voices heard and share what life is like in their part of the world with the rest of the nation. This annual storytelling competition, run by the ABC, showcases what it’s like to live in regional, rural and remote Australia. Winning Heywire is a chance for young people to have their story told on the ABC and see the impact their story can have. Entries are open now and close on September 16th.

Have your say - Refugee Council of Australia Strategic Plan for 2022 - 2024

The Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA) is the umbrella body for organisations working with and for refugees and people seeking asylum. RCOA conducts research, raises awareness and advocates on national and international issues affecting refugees and people seeking asylum. For more information about RCOA, go to www.refugeecouncil.org.au.

RCOA is currently developing its next 3-year Strategic Plan for 2022 - 2024. They are keen to involve RCOA members and supporters in the development of the new Strategic Plan. Findings from this survey will inform the priorities and actions in the new Strategic Plan.

The survey contains 13 questions and should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete.

If you leave your details you could wina hard copy of the ‘Share a Meal, Share a Story CookBook’.

The survey closes 11pm, Sunday 15th August 2021 (AEDST).

Inland Growth Summit to address housing crisis

The state’s housing crisis will be the hot topic at an upcoming conference jointly hosted by RDA Riverina and RDA Orana with the support of RivJO and REROC.

With many similarities shared in terms of infrastructure, industry and population, the two organisations aim to address the issue of housing needs at a one-day forum being held online on August 13.

RDA Riverina CEO and Director of Regional Development Rachel Whiting said a multitude of factors was pushing housing availability to its limits.

“There is a severe shortage of properties to rent or buy which is causing problems across the community,” she said.

Ms Whiting said the upcoming summit would examine why inland areas are in crisis, what can be done to resolve the problem and who is responsible for addressing the issue.

“It’s incredibly important to be examining housing supply and demand and how it impacts on residential development and growth opportunities,” she said.

“We love living in regional Australia, but housing availability is really being stretched, so we need to look at some solutions. This is having a resounding effect on communities where residents who can’t find a home have to move somewhere else.”

The upcoming summit will feature some high-profile speakers including the Hon Nola Marino, Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories; as well as Garry Fielding who has just been announced as chair of the NSW Government's Regional Housing Taskforce.

In the past, RDA Orana’s Inland Growth Summits have aimed to expose issues and work on solutions. 

“We are looking forward to pairing with RDA Riverina on this event and recognise the power of collaboration,” Megan Dixon, Director of Regional Development at RDA Orana, said.

“We relish community engagement and the opportunity to link with an array of stakeholders to discuss issues impacting regional Australia. Our Inland Growth Summits have become a way to discuss concerns with government leaders, business representatives and community members and make them aware of what is happening on the ground in regional areas.” 

Date: Friday 13 August 2021
Time: 8 am - 3.30 pm
Where: Online

COVID-19 restrictions extended until 28 August

Given low vaccination rates, the current stay at home orders will remain in place for another four weeks (until Saturday, 28 August at 12.01am) across Greater Sydney including the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Wollongong and Shellharbour.

This extra time will allow NSW residents to significantly increase the uptake of vaccines in areas most affected by the current outbreak and across the state.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said higher vaccination rates and following the health orders are the only way to guarantee the further easing of restrictions.

“Though the Pfizer supply is insufficient there is plenty of AstraZeneca, and updated federal health advice recommends anyone aged 18 and over in Greater Sydney should access the jab,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“If you are unvaccinated, please organise a jab as soon as you possibly can, especially if you live in an LGA of concern.”

Other restriction changes are as follows:

From midnight tonight (28 July):

• In line with exercise rules, Greater Sydney residents including the Central Coast, Blue Mountains, Wollongong and Shellharbour must limit their shopping to within their Local Government Area (LGA) or, if outside their LGA, within 10km from home, unless the item is not available locally.

• Given localised case numbers, the Parramatta, Campbelltown and Georges River LGAs will join the five existing LGAs of concern which are subject to an Authorised Workers Order. Only authorised workers in these eight LGAs may leave their LGA for work.

The five previously announced LGAs of concern are Canterbury-Bankstown, Fairfield, Liverpool, Blacktown and Cumberland.

From 12.01am, Saturday, 31 July:

• Construction in non-occupied settings outside of the LGAs of concern (with no residents on-site) will re-open as planned, subject to a one person per 4sqm rule. These low-risk construction sites must have COVID safe plans in place, compliance will be strictly enforced. Construction cannot resume in the eight LGAs of concern, nor will construction workers be allowed to leave these areas.

• Trades people, including cleaners who are able to work with zero contact with residents will also be allowed to resume (no more than two people inside and five outside). If contactless arrangements are not possible, work cannot go ahead. This work will not be allowed in the eight LGAs of concern, nor will workers be allowed to leave these areas.

• A singles bubble will also be introduced, allowing people who live alone to nominate one designated family member or friend to visit for companionship. Restrictions will apply for people in the LGAs of concern.

Changes to surveillance testing (enforceable from Saturday, 31 July): 

• All authorised workers from Canterbury-Bankstown LGA must get tested once every three days in order to leave their LGA for work.

• People who live in the Fairfield and Cumberland LGAs but work outside these areas as health or aged care workers (including support services for health or aged care, such as cleaners, cooks and security providers) must be tested once every three days in order to be allowed to go to work outside their LGA.

• These surveillance testing requirements will be enforceable from Saturday, 31 July. However, relevant workers will have from today to get their first test.

Year 12 students are also set to return to face-to-face learning on Monday, 16 August, with the Government finalising plans for the resumption of in-class study under strict COVID protocols.

The NSW Government is also working with industry and the Department of Education to introduce Rapid Antigen Testing to mitigate against outbreaks in workplaces and schools.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said restrictions in regional NSW will remain unchanged. 

“The lockdown in Greater Sydney and every measure and precaution we implement is not only for the residents of Sydney but to protect regional NSW and to prevent the virus reaching our regional communities,” Mr Barilaro said.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet welcomed the Commonwealth Government’s commitment to provide additional support for those hardest hit during this pandemic.

“Working with our federal counterparts we are providing extra support to ensure the businesses and people who have been hit hardest by this pandemic get the financial assistance they need to get through this crisis and back on the path to recovery,” Mr Perrottet said.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard said though the stay-at-home restrictions are difficult for the community this is a critical time if we are to suppress the outbreak.

“The vast majority of the community has been absolutely fantastic to date and have followed the public health advice. Though we are easing some restrictions today we need people to redouble their efforts as we continue to battle the Delta variant in the coming weeks,” Mr Hazzard said.

“We need people to stay at home unless absolutely necessary to leave and the best reason for most people to leave home right now is to get vaccinated. In doing so, you are taking a vital step to protect yourself, your loved ones and the community.”

Agricultural exemption secured for Queensland hard border

Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Western NSW Adam Marshall has announced a newly-created exemption to allow farmers and agribusiness workers to move freely across the NSW-Queensland border under current COVID restrictions.

Mr Marshall hailed the exemption a big win for industry and said it came after the NSW Government pushed to minimise the barriers imposed on the agricultural sector by the Queensland Government’s recent hard border closure.

Agricultural workers from both States who meet specific requirements can now travel across the border anywhere in NSW and Queensland, by road or air, until at least Friday, 20 August.

“The free movement of agricultural workers across state borders is crucial for our food and fibre producers, security of food supply chains and our economy, especially during times of COVID,” Mr Marshall said.

“The class exemption is for movement associated with performing essential services for the agriculture supply chain or farming activities, including the care of livestock.

“The exemption is timely, especially given we’ve just started another large bull sale season in the north of the State, which typically attract many buyers from Queensland.

“This will allow vital agricultural work to take place and ensure our farmers can keep operating without unreasonable delays and barriers, while still safeguarding public health priorities.”

Mr Marshall said there were strict conditions under the exemption which workers must meet before crossing the border, including the need to provide evidence of their employment or contract, property ownership, lease or agistment arrangements.

“Agricultural workers wanting to cross into Queensland will need to provide evidence they have already unsuccessfully attempted to source the skills from a non-hotspot in another state or territory, or that it is too costly or time prohibitive,” Mr Marshall said.

The list of requirements for crossing the border under the class exemption are available at www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/farms-fishing-forestry/agriculture/coronavirus-support/border-restrictions-agriculture

“Those travelling or returning to NSW from Queensland will be required to complete an online declaration each time they cross the border,” Mr Marshall said.

“Rules and restrictions apply if you have been in an affected area, area of concern or a place of high concern, and are entering NSW.”

Temporary relaxation of working hours for student visa holders

To support the supply of certain services during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Home Affairs and Australian Border Force will take a flexible approach to student visa holders, including those working beyond their usual work limitations, but only in the sectors below.

You can work for more than 40 hours a fortnight if you are employed:

• by an aged care Approved Provider or Commonwealth-funded aged care service provider with a RACS ID or a NAPS ID, before 8 September 2020

• by a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider before 23 April 2020

• enrolled in a health care related course and you are supporting the health effort against COVID-19, as directed by health officials

• in the agriculture sector

• in the tourism and hospitality sector

• in a supermarket, or associated distribution facility, located in an area impacted by COVID-19 lockdown restrictions for the duration of the lockdown.
  

The sectors are defined using the Australian and New Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) system.

For the tourism and hospitality sector, the definition also includes work for employers whose primary purpose is to directly provide a service to tourists, when their activities are not listed in the Division of Accommodation and Food Services under the ANZSIC system.

More information is available on the Australian Bureau of Statistics we​bsite.​

These are temporary measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, and will be reviewed by the Government.

Temora Swimming Pool Laps Up New Funding

Steph Cooke MP with members of Temora Swimming Club and Mayor Rick Firman

Sporting pursuits in the Temora region have received a major boost after the NSW Government announced a $900,000 grant for major upgrades of the Temora Swimming Pool.

The grant has been awarded to Temora Shire Council for a project that will involve the widening of the pool to eight lanes, the provision of an accessible ramp entry and in-pool step entry, as well as work to address several maintenance issues associated with the existing facility.

The grant has been awarded under the first round of the NSW Government’s Regional Sport Facility Fund which will see $50 million awarded over two years for new and upgraded sports facilities in Regional NSW.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has congratulated Temora Shire Council on their successful application which will substantially modernise the current facility.

“Sport and recreation is a big part of small communities,” Ms Cooke said.

“This is an exciting project which will provide residents of Temora and further afield with a modern, fit-for-purpose swimming facility.”

“It is fantastic to learn this project will be made possible using local contractors and suppliers, and once completed will ensure the Temora Recreation Centre can attract larger regional competitions, which will be of great benefit to our local economy.”

Mayor of Temora Shire Council Rick Firman said the project will greatly enhance the swimming complex for the benefit of all users.

“We’re overwhelmed with the support we’re receiving from the NSW Government to improve infrastructure at our recreation centre.”

“On behalf of Council we say a warm thank you for this outstanding boost to our community.”

Minister for Sport Natalie Ward said the Regional Sport Facility Fund will help promote healthy lifestyles across regional NSW while stimulating local economies and boosting employment.

“The NSW Government recognises investing in new and existing sports facilities plays a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of NSW residents,” Mrs Ward said.

“The Regional Sport Facility Fund will promote improved health and wellbeing, and create a construction boom across regional NSW as part of the NSW Government’s multi-billion-dollar infrastructure pipeline.”

The Regional Sport Facility Fund provides grants to councils, local sporting bodies, NSW State Sporting Organisations, State Sporting Organisations for People with Disability, National Sporting Organisations and private enterprises.

For the full list of recipients and further information on the Regional Sport Facility Fund, visit: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/clubs/grants

nbn Digital Capability Self-Assessment Tool

nbn has recently released a Digital Capability Self-Assessment Tool in the interests of addressing digital literacy challenges across Australia.

The nbnTM Digital Capability Tool is designed to help you measure your digital capability and show you how to take steps towards further improvement. In an increasingly digital world, being able to communicate online with friends and family, operate a device and store data safely and securely is critical.

The nbn™ Digital Capability Self-Assessment Tool takes just 5 mins for an individual to get an assessment. Whilst there will be many who will be comfortable with their result, there will be others who will want to grasp the opportunity to grow and become more digitally enabled. At the end of the questionnaire the individual will quickly be able to visualise where they fit on a rating scale guide that includes these types: 

o    Cautious Adopter - Typically someone at an early stage in developing their digital capabilities and only uses technology for very basic functions, such as sending a text message 

o    Digitally Responsive - Someone who might only engage with technology in response to a specific need or only when there are limited to no other options.   

o    Pragmatist - Someone who is still developing their digital skills however they are capable of figuring things out as they are required. 

o    Problem solver - Someone who has enough knowledge of most digital capabilities to get by in everyday situations involving technology and is growing in confidence. 

o    Learner - Someone who is digitally inquisitive is skilled in some digital capabilities but often developing in select areas, and therefore is always eager to learn more.   

o    Lifestyler - Someone to whom technology is seamlessly integral to everyday living. 

o    Visionary - Someone who is advanced across most digital capabilities, however, may still have more to learn in a certain area.  

o    Digital leader - Someone who is highly skilled in all things digital and is constantly imagining new and inspiring ways to enhance daily tasks using technology. 

Access the tool here

While digital capability in Australia continues to improve, the gap between the measured capability of Australians in regional, rural and remote Australia, compared to metropolitan areas remains too big. Insights from the tool will also be used to help nbn respond to community needs. This tool will enable us as well as our partners, industry stakeholders and community leaders to better understand not just what is needed to lift capability, but where that need is most acute. 

Inland Rail Expression of Interest released to approved registrants

On Thursday 22nd July ARTC Inland Rail released its Expression of Interest (EOI) to approved registrants to deliver the Albury to Illabo and Stockinbingal to Parkes enhancement projects.

Following the Registration of Interest (ROI) for qualified and experienced contractors advertised in May, approved registrants attended an industry briefing on 21 June 2021. The briefing provided an update of the Albury to Parkes Project and an overview of the scope of works for the three individual projects:

• Albury to Illabo

• Illabo to Stockinbingal – subject to a separate EOI.

• Stockinbingal to Parkes.

At the industry briefing the approved registrants nominated which procurement process they sought an invitation for EOI, enhancement projects and/or Illabo to Stockinbingal to be issued later this year. The enhancement projects (Albury to Illabo and Stockinbingal to Parkes projects) EOI closes on 19 August 2021.

Following a competitive tender process, a main contractor will be appointed in mid-2022 to deliver both enhancement projects under a design and construct contract type, with some elements of works being construct only.

The contractor will source goods, services and equipment from suppliers and subcontractors. Inland Rail is committed to using local suppliers and labour and there will be opportunities for a range of businesses to participate in the delivery of work associated with the project’s construction.

Opportunities to supply to the Albury to Illabo and Stockinbingal to Parkes projects will be managed by the contractor following contract award. Prospective suppliers and subcontractors can expect to start engaging with the contractor before and following contract award in mid-2022.

Victoria declares NSW an 'extreme risk zone'

Victoria has added a new category to its interstate travel permit system, designating all of NSW a COVID-19 "extreme risk zone".

As a result of the change, border bubble residents can only cross the border if it is within five kilometres from their home - unless they need to travel for medical reasons, vaccination or permitted work.

Here's what Service Victoria says it means for border communities:

I live in a border community that is now an extreme risk zone or red zone. Can I enter Victoria? 

While Victoria is in lockdown, cross-border community residents (who live outside of Victoria) can enter Victoria, for one of the five following reasons: 

• shopping for necessary goods and services

• care and caregiving, including medical care and getting a COVID-19 test

• exercise

• authorised work and permitted study

• to get a COVID-19 vaccination

Cross-border community residents are subject to a 5km limit into Victoria that applies for exercise or obtaining necessary goods and services. For example, if you live 2km away from the border, you are able to travel 3km into Victoria. The 5km limit does not apply to obtain goods or services for health or medical purposes, or if the 5km limit would make it impractical to get necessary goods and services. 

Only one person may enter Victoria per day for the purposes of obtaining necessary goods and services (except if the person is parent or guardian of a child), or to obtain good or serves for health or medical purposes, or from financial institutions or government bodies, or the person requires care and support.  

I live on the New South Wales or South Australia side of the cross-border community and want to travel to the Victorian-side of the cross-border community – do I need a permit to enter Victoria?

No. However, while Victoria is in lockdown, there are restrictions on how far residents of the border bubble communities can travel to exercise or obtain necessary goods in Victoria, even if your home is in New South Wales or South Australia.

The 5km limit does not apply to obtain goods or services for health or medical purposes, or if the 5km limit would make it impractical to get necessary goods and services. 

There are different conditions if you have been to an orange zone, red zone or extreme risk zone outside of the cross-border community, or if you have COVID-19, or any symptoms, or are a close contact. 

Local Government Areas in the cross-border community

Victoria

• Alpine Shire Council

• City of Greater Bendigo

• City of Greater Shepparton

• City of Wodonga

• Rural City of Benalla

• Rural City of Horsham

• Rural City of Mildura

• Rural City of Swan Hill

• Rural City of Wangaratta

• Shire of Buloke

• Shire of Campaspe

• Shire of East Gippsland

• Shire of Gannawarra

• Shire of Glenelg

• Shire of Hindmarsh

• Shire of Indigo

• Shire of Loddon

• Shire of Moira

• Shire of Southern Grampians

• Shire of Towong

• Shire of West Wimmera

• Shire of Yarriambiack

* Includes residents of two unincorporated areas - Mount Hotham Alpine Resort and Falls Creek Alpine Resort.

New South Wales

• Balranald Shire

• Bega Valley Shire

• Berrigan Shire

• City of Albury

• City of Broken Hill

• City of Wagga Wagga

• Edward River Council

• Federation Council

• Greater Hume Shire

• Hay Shire

• Lockhart Shire

• Murray River Council

• Murrumbidgee Council

• Snowy Monaro Regional Council

• Snowy Valleys Council

• Wentworth Shire

Note: The Silver City Highway between the Broken Hill and Wentworth Local Government Areas is part of the NSW-Victoria border bubble.

Survey | Experience and Capability of your business for renewable energy projects and supply chains

You are invited to complete a survey on the experience or capabilities of your business to undertake work for renewable energy – be it in construction, operation and maintenance, manufacturing, equipment supply, professional services, distribution, transport or mineral processing.

The survey is being administered by the Institute for Sustainable Futures (ISF) at University of Technology Sydney and SGS Economics and Planning, on behalf of the Renewable Energy Sector Board (RESB) & Department of Planning, Industry, and Environment (DPIE).

The aim of the survey is to collate information on the capabilities of regional businesses to increase opportunities for local industry and employment.

Survey responses will be aggregated and reported anonymously. The survey gives you the option to provide the name of your business to enable the NSW Government to contact you if it decides to develop a directory in the future.

Click RESB Survey to participate in the survey. The survey will close on 16 August 2021.

About the research

From May to September 2021, researchers from ISF and SGS are undertaking a study - Baseline and Opportunities Study on Renewable Energy Sector Supply Chains, Employment and Skills - to identify, scope and assess the local supply chain capacity, employment and regional development opportunities enabled by the establishment of Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) in NSW.

The project will provide advice to the NSW RESB, which has been established to prepare and provide a plan to the Minister for Energy and Environment on how to cost-effectively maximise local industry development, employment and opportunities for apprentices and trainees enabled by the electricity infrastructure constructed under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, including the establishment of Renewable Energy Zones (REZs) in NSW.

ISF and SGS researchers are conducting this survey of local businesses in the NSW REZs to help develop a detailed understanding of regional capacity as well as the barriers to building local capacity and employment in renewable energy supply chains.

About the survey

It is anticipated that the survey will take less than 15 minutes to complete and will cover:

• General description of your business

• General capability of your business in relation to the renewable energy supply chain e.g. equipment supply, services

• Renewable energy project or contract experience

• Business constraints to increasing involvement and what could be done to minimise opportunities

Drought Resilience Leaders Program

The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) is proud to be leading the delivery of the Future Drought Fund’s Drought Resilience Leaders Program. The program comprises three key initiatives – the Drought Resilience Leaders Development Program, Community Extension Grants and Drought Resilience Leaders Mentoring Program.

The Drought Resilience Leaders Mentoring Program is an opportunity for farmers and other rural professionals to connect 1:1 and share their knowledge and experience with each other, while also joining a national network committed to the future resilience of agriculture and regional Australia.

 The Mentoring Program has been launched by the Minister for Agriculture and Northern Australia, The Hon David Littleproud MP, and they invite you and your network to be involved:

As a Mentee

Farmers, take this opportunity to learn from other farmers or industry/climate/drought professionals, set goals and draw on the support of a mentor towards achieving them. You will have access to a range of resources including webinars and course materials in this free program. Applications are now open, click here for information and to apply.

As a Mentor

Share your knowledge, experience and expertise 1:1 with one or more farmers (mentees) from induction in October/November 2021 and through mentoring sessions between January and June 2022. Work through goals and discuss topics relevant to agriculture, drought, climate resilience, leadership and self-development. Applications are now open, click here for information and to apply.

Applications for both mentees and mentors open via the ARLF website and places are strictly limited, so please don’t delay your enquiry or application.

As a Mentoring Program Champion!

Help others by getting on board and sharing the news of this valuable program investing in farmers and their communities throughout Australia. Please pass this information onto anyone – individual or organisation – who might like to participate in this program or let us know of contacts we could let know about the Mentoring Program. Tap people in your network on the shoulder about this program today!

 A Stakeholder Media Kit is available and if you would like to receive one to assist with promoting the Mentoring Program to others, please get in touch via email at droughtresilience@rural-leaders.org.au

Drought Resilience Leaders Development Program

An innovative community led approach to build leadership skills that benefit the regions resilience, environmental literacy and response, the Leaders Development Program aims to build a national network of leaders equipped to meet the challenges of the future.

Over three, multi-day sessions 40 participants from each region will come together to undertake a challenge-based leadership program tailored to meet the requirements of their community, delivered by facilitators committed to the viability of the region. This program is open to individuals 18 years and over, who reside and/or work within the nominated regions. There is no restriction on the industry or sector that individuals work in.

The Leaders Development Program will be held in 12 regions across Australia (please see factsheet below for regions). Throughout the program, participants will be eligible to apply for community extension grants that aim to strengthen the future of the regions.

Want to find out more?

Visit: www.rural-leaders.org.au/our-programs/drought-resilience-leaders/

Call: 02 6281 0680

Email: droughtresilience@rural-leaders.org.au

Follow us: Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter

NSW COVID-19 support package announced

The Morrison and Berejiklian Governments continue to work together to support households and businesses in New South Wales during the current COVID-19 lockdown.

Under a new combined support package, the COVID-19 Disaster Payment will be further expanded and increased. The Commonwealth and NSW will also enter into a new 50/50 cost sharing arrangement for a new business support payment to be implemented and administered by NSW.

From week four of a lockdown because of a Commonwealth Government declared hotspot, the COVID-19 Disaster Payment will increase to $600 if a person has lost 20 or more hours of work a week or $375 if a person has lost between 8 and less than 20 hours of work a week.

The Commonwealth and NSW have also agreed that from 18 July 2021 the COVID-19 Commonwealth Disaster Payment will be available to those outside Commonwealth declared hotspots in NSW that meet the criteria for the payment.

The NSW Government will fund any payments outside a Commonwealth declared hotspot, with the Commonwealth continuing to fund payments to recipients in a Commonwealth declared hotspot.

This support will be offered to any other state or territory that experiences an extended lockdown.

A new business support payment will also be available to entities with an annual turnover between $75,000 and $50 million who can demonstrate a 30 per cent decline in turnover.

To receive the payment, eligible entities will be required to maintain their full time, part time and long term casual staffing level as of 13 July 2021.

Eligible entities, which includes not-for-profits, will receive payments of between $1500 and $10,000 per week based on the level of their payroll.

For non-employing businesses, such as sole traders, the payment will be set at $1000 per week.

The new small business support payment combined with the substantial income support being provided through the COVID-19 Disaster Payment will mean businesses and individuals who have been affected by this extended lockdown will get the support they need to get to the other side.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said as the pandemic evolved so did the responses from the Commonwealth and state governments.

“Up until now the Commonwealth has provided the same support to that offered to all other states and territories, consistent with the national approach agreed by National Cabinet last month,” the Prime Minister said.

“As the outbreak has worsened well beyond what we have recently seen in other states and territories, it is in the national interest to enable increased assistance, in partnership with the NSW Government, for workers, business and households, to ensure the lockdown can be maintained to arrest the latest outbreak.

“This new support represents a new national approach and will apply to other states and territories in the event they face similar circumstances.

“We’ve been working closely with the NSW Government to ensure we can deliver targeted and timely support that gets where it needs to be as quickly as possible.

“As lockdowns extend into another week in NSW, households and businesses need this assistance to get them through the lockdown to the other side, ready to reopen."

The Commonwealth and NSW governments will also deliver a $17.35 million mental health support package for NSW including for services through Lifeline, headspace and Kid’s Helpline.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the support package would help businesses and families across NSW get through a difficult period.

“Our number one priority remains the health and safety of the people of NSW while also keeping our economy strong as we manage the current COVID-19 challenge,” the NSW Premier said.

“We are pleased to be able to increase our targeted support in conjunction with the Commonwealth and this assistance will ensure we get through the lockdown and come out stronger on the other side.”

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the Morrison Government was stepping up to support NSW households and business when they need it most as the state seeks to suppress the delta variant.

“The outbreak in NSW is a timely reminder we are still in the midst of a global pandemic and that there is much work to do to secure our economic recovery,” the Treasurer said.

“The new small business support payment, to be funded on a 50/50 basis with the NSW Government, will support up to an estimated 500,000 entities employing more than 3 million people.”

“Our increased support builds on the $52.4 billion we have already delivered to households and businesses in NSW during the pandemic.”

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the package would help thousands of businesses across the State.

"We have done this before and we can do it again and this targeted support will help those who need it,” the NSW Treasurer said.

“If you’re a worker, a sole trader, a small or medium business or a big employer – we've got your back.

“This package will help families and businesses weather the current storm and ensure we can hit the ground running once this current outbreak is under control."

More information will be available on the Service NSW website later this week.

Major new Covid-19 Support Package to Help Tens of Thousands of Businesses Across NSW

The NSW Government today announced a major new grants package and changes to the Dine & Discover program to help tens of thousands of small businesses and people across NSW impacted by the current COVID-19 restrictions.

The package includes grants of between $5,000 and $10,000 for small businesses, payroll tax deferrals for all employers, an extension of the Dine & Discover program to 31 August and the ability for people to use Dine & Discover vouchers for takeaway delivered directly to their home by the venue itself.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the centrepiece of the package was the small business support grants which will help businesses by alleviating cashflow constraints while trading is restricted. This can be used for business expenses such as rent, utilities and wages, for which no other government support is available.

“We always said we will do whatever it takes to support businesses and keep people in jobs during the pandemic and that is exactly what we are doing,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“The current restrictions are in place to protect people and keep the community safe, unfortunately businesses continue to incur costs such as rent, power and lost produce, and this will go some way to lessening that financial pain.”

Three different grant amounts will be available for small businesses depending on the decline in turnover experienced during the restrictions - $10,000 for a 70 per cent decline, $7,000 for a 50 per cent decline and $5,000 for a 30 per cent decline.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro said the new grants would be available across NSW.

“This latest outbreak has coincided with school holidays when a lot of regional areas were counting on more visitors to help boost local economies,” Mr Barilaro said.

“These grants will help many get through the winter, and just like after the bushfires, the floods and the first wave of COVID-19, the regions will lead NSW out the other side.”

NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the small business grants would be available for sole traders and non-for-profit organisations, with expanded criteria to assist most hospitality and tourism operators hit hard by the restrictions during school holidays.

“The NSW economy rebounded strongly from the challenges of 2020 and we’re taking action to ensure we keep that going. We are deploying our fiscal firepower when it matters, by helping small businesses stay in business and keep people in jobs,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Once again we are delivering timely and targeted support to keep businesses in business and people in jobs as we work together to overcome this latest challenge.”

Businesses will be able to apply for the grants through Service NSW from later in July and will need to show a decline in turnover across a minimum two-week period after the commencement of major restrictions on June 26.

The grants will be divided into two streams:

1. Small Business COVID-19 Support Grant. Available to businesses and sole traders with a turnover of more than $75,000 per annum but below the NSW Government 2020-21 payroll tax threshold of $1,200,000 as at 1 July 2020.

These businesses must have fewer than 20 full time equivalent employees and an Australian Business Number (ABN) registered in New South Wales or be able to demonstrate they are physically located and primarily operating in New South Wales. (Full criteria will be available in coming days on the Service NSW website).

2. Hospitality and Tourism COVID-19 Support Grant. Available to tourism or hospitality businesses that have a turnover of more than $75,000 and an annual Australian wages bill of below $10 million, as at 1 July 2020.

These business must have an Australian Business Number (ABN) registered in New South Wales or be able to demonstrate they are physically located and primarily operating in New South Wales. (Full criteria will be available in coming days on the Service NSW website).

Other key elements of the package announced today include: 

• Dine & Discover vouchers will be able to be used for takeaway from eligible and registered Dine businesses during the restriction period. Delivery direct to the home by the restaurant or café is recommended. Food may be picked up from venue but check in with QR code is required. Dine & Discover vouchers cannot be redeemed for takeaway using third party delivery platforms. 

• A further one-month extension of Dine & Discover vouchers until 31 August 2021 to allow people more time to use them. 

• More than $11 million for increased support for people at risk of homelessness plus assistance to vulnerable temporary visa holders, asylum seekers and refugees. 

• An optional deferral of payroll tax payments due in July 2021 and the deferral of hotel June quarter gaming machine tax, with the Chief Commissioner of State Revenue able to provide for appropriate repayment arrangements on a case by case basis.

More information on the small business support grants and changes to the Dine & Discover program will be available shortly on the Service NSW website.

Nominations now open for Telstra Business Awards

Telstra invites all New South Wales-based businesses under 200 employees to nominate and enter across eight categories of the Telstra Best of Business Awards. The new program continues Telstra’s long legacy of awards programs that recognise exceptional leaders and small businesses.

This year’s topic is Local Leadership - a category that champions small businesses who are excelling in their role of building a thriving community of the future. This comes after research showed 96 per cent of consumers said they considered small businesses an important part of their community.

 Anyone can nominate an exceptional business by heading to the website today: www.telstrabestofbusinessawards.com

 Celebrating Australian small business with the Telstra Best of Business Awards

RDA Riverina NSW Growing Regions of Welcome Pilot Program

This Refugee Week we celebrate Mai Pham - a resident of Regional NSW for 17 years.

To celebrate Refugee Week, the NSW Government has announced a $3 million program to assist interested migrants in western Sydney to relocate to regional NSW for employment and lifestyle opportunities.

The three-year NSW Growing Regions of Welcome (NSW GROW) pilot program aims to strengthen regional community capability to attract and retain newcomers and assist with relocation to the Riverina and Murray areas.

The NSW Coordinator General for Settlement, Professor Peter Shergold says NSW GROW reflects the strong cross-sector relationships across all levels of government, community and industry to support successful settlement and strong NSW communities.

“This program will address critical workforce needs in regional NSW that would usually be filled through overseas migration.

“NSW GROW will support coordinated efforts across sectors to create secondary migration linkages between western Sydney and regional NSW and drive sustainable social and economic outcomes for participating regional communities and newcomers alike.”

In western Sydney, a Regional Employment Hub will provide a gateway for interested western Sydney-based newcomers to connect with identified opportunities in the regions.

Backbone coordinators in both locations will support the design and implementation of plans to attract and retain people arriving from western Sydney.

In the Riverina, Regional Development Australia (RDA) Riverina will employ the Backbone Coordinator role.

Rachel Whiting, the CEO of RDA Riverina says the level of job vacancy advertisements in the Riverina has reached a 10-year high.

 “We have more jobs than people in the Riverina. NSW GROW is another strategy to contribute to RDA Riverina’s workforce development plan for the region.  We know our communities are welcoming of newcomers, and we look forward to working with LGAs like Leeton and Temora Shires to welcome more people and match them with employers’ needs.”

 Multicultural NSW received $3 million funding from Training Services NSW to deliver the pilot program.

 For more information about Multicultural NSW, please visit: www.multicultural.nsw.gov.au

 Regional Development Australia Boards (RDAs) have played and continue to play an important role in delivering sustainable infrastructure and services to their region. These Boards deliver important work in consulting with communities, promoting and participating in regional initiatives, and providing information and advice on their region to all levels of Government. If you would like to learn more about how RDA Riverina is able to assist you, visit its website at www.rdariverina.org.au. Further information about the RDA program is available at www.rda.gov.au.

NSW Tourism Awards 2021

Now in its 31st year, the NSW Tourism Awards celebrate business excellence, acknowledge business innovation and reward exceptional customer service.

Parts of this year's program have been modified to reflect the business challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 12-months.

Nominations are now open! Nomination fees are $150 per category entered. Winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner to be held in Sydney in November. Relevant category winners will go on to represent NSW at the Australian Tourism Awards to be held February, 2022 on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland.

KEY DATES

Thursday 10 June Nominations open!

Wednesday 16 June Information session: Watch recording.

Friday 9 July Nominations close

Wednesday 14 July Non-accredited entrants: Business & Accommodation standards due

Wednesday 4 August Draft Submissions due. Optional; Entrant Support

August/ September Virtual business verification meetings

Wednesday 8 September Submissions final deadline

September / October Submission judging

Friday 15 October Finalists announced

Thursday 11 November Gala event in Sydney (date TBC)

NSW Free Preschool Here to Stay

Free preschool is now a staple for NSW families with funding confirmed in the 2021/22 NSW Budget for community and mobile preschools on Sunday 20th June 2021.

Treasurer Dominic Perrottet and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell today announced that the new Start Strong Free Preschool program will commence from January 2022.

The new program replaces the current COVID-19 free preschool program, which will conclude at the end of this year, meaning that there will be continuous cost-of-living support for parents and carers.

Mr Perrottet said the support for families and children has been a priority for the NSW Government over the last two years, with a commitment to removing a layer of financial pressure for many families.

“One of the first things we did in response to COVID-19 was to make preschool free, removing a layer of financial pressure for many families,” Mr Perrottet said.

“The program supported countless jobs, and kept children learning and engaged during some of their most important years.

‘I’m delighted that we can continue funding these crucial years in a child’s development while easing the cost of living pressures for families,” Mr Perrottet said.

Ms Mitchell said that early childhood education is an important part of development and preparation, especially in those critical two years before school.

“This is a $150 million investment in the future, as we know the first 2,000 days of a child’s life are crucial and those who experience the benefits of early childhood education grow up to lead happier, healthier and more productive lives,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Families will save up to $4,000 per year per child in preschool fees, easing cost of living pressures and helping with the balance of work and family life.

“We are committed to families, this budget includes $725 million direct investment into Early Childhood Education helping parents support their children during some of their most important years.

Up to 740 community and mobile preschools will benefit from this important investment.

Department of Education preschools will also be supported to continue offering free preschool.