R U OK Day 2021

Are they really OK? Ask them today.

Do you know how the people in your world are really going?

Life's ups and downs happen to all of us. So chances are someone you know might be struggling. Your genuine support can make a difference whatever they are facing, big or small. 

So, don’t wait until someone’s visibly distressed or in crisis. Make a moment meaningful and ask them how they’re really going. 

Are they really OK? Ask them today. Your conversation could change a life. 

Services Australia warn of SMS scam involving vaccination passports

Please be aware of the latest SMS scam purporting to issue a personal vaccination certificate.

The SMS may appear to be sent from ‘COVIDsafe’ or ‘BeCOVIDsafe’. It shows something similar to; “Your digital version of COVID-19 Passport is available at XXXXXXXXXXX”.

The link in the SMS will direct to a malicious website that offers a ‘COVID vaccination certificate’, requesting a small payment for issuing the certificate. This is an attempt by scammers to steal the individual’s personal and banking information.

If you or a customer have received this SMS please delete it immediately. Do not click the link.

Important facts to know:

• You will never pay for services related to their Services Australia held accounts or records, including for COVID 19 vaccination certificates or assistance with myGov.

• Services Australia will never send a text message to a customer that includes a link.

• All customers can obtain their COVID 19 proof of vaccination via Service Australia’s secure channels.

• If a customer advises they have fallen victim to this scam, they can contact our Scams and Identity Theft Helpdesk on 1800 941 126.

To find out what we know about the latest scams, please visit the Services Australia website and type ‘scams’ in the search bar.

Let’s do this – book your COVID - 19 vaccination today

Let’s do this–book your COVID-19 vaccination today

People across NSW are getting vaccinated in extraordinary numbers. Even during these challenging times, people are working together to protect themselves, their loved ones and our community. Each vaccination brings us closer to getting back to doing the things we love. But our work is not yet done. We need many more people to step forward and get vaccinated now.COVID-19 vaccination with two doses reduces the chance of you spreading the virus to those around you and gives you around 90% protection against hospitalisation and death. It’s also a way you can support our healthcare and essential workers who are caring and providing for those who need it most.

How to book your vaccination

Everyone 16 and over can get a COVID-19 vaccine. Appointments are available at more than 2,000GPs, pharmacies, Aboriginal Medical Services, and NSW Health vaccination clinics across NSW.Speak to your local GP or pharmacist or visit nsw.gov.au to make a booking. Appointments are also now available for those aged 12-15 who are national Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)participants, have health conditions, identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander or who live in a rural area. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and free.

Don’t delay

The risk of COVID-19 in the community is high. It can cause serious illness and death. You can’t predict who will get very unwell. For the latest information visitnsw.gov.auor contact the National COVID-19 Vaccine Helpline on 1800020 080, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For a free telephone interpreter, ring TIS National on 131 450(24-hour helpline) and say the language you need. Ask the interpreter to connect you to the COVID-19Vaccine Helpline. The sooner we are protected, the sooner we can get visitors to our regions, travel, and get family back home and our state back to business. Let’s do this, together.

Inland Growth Summit Housing 2021

RDA Riverina teamed up with RDA Orana to host the fourth Inland Growth Summit with a focus on housing.

If you missed the conference or would like to view the presentations again check out the recap below.

NSW Government Covid-19 Business Update

If your business has experienced financial decline during the stay at home orders, there are multiple COVID-19 financial support packages available. $2.58 billion has already been paid out from 239,704 financial support applications.

The main support packages include: 

JobSaver 

Fortnightly payments of up to $100,000 per week for employing businesses and $1000 per week for non-employing businesses, with 30% decline or more. 

2021 COVID-19 Micro business grant

A fortnightly payment of $1,500 for businesses with a turnover between $30,000 and $75,000, that can show a revenue decline of 30% or more.

COVID-19 Disaster Payment 

Financial support for workers of $325–$450 for a loss of 8 to 20 hours of work per week, and $500–$750 for a loss of more than 20 hours per week.

Criteria for some of these support packages have changed to allow more businesses access. You can assess the criteria to work out which one is the most relevant for your business.

NSW Government COVID-19 business support video

The NSW Government recently ran a webinar to assist businesses applying for COVID-19 financial support.

The recorded video is now available to view online. It can help you understand what documents you’ll need to support your application, and how to apply for the 2021 COVID-19 business grant, JobSaver payments, 2021 COVID-19 micro-business grant, payroll tax support and tenancy support. 

Read the video transcript.

New vaccination requirements for authorised workers

If your business employs authorised workers from LGAs of concern and they work outside their LGA, from Monday 6 September, they will need at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to work.  

Rapid antigen testing will no longer be an alternative to getting a COVID-19 vaccine.  

Employees are not required to follow this rule if they: 

• are an authorised worker under 16 years old

• have a medical exemption.

Priority bookings are available for a COVID-19 vaccine. Employees can book their vaccination appointment by selecting the option below that suits them:

> Authorised workers who live in a LGA of concern  
> People aged 16-49 who live in a LGA of concern  
> Childcare, disability and food workers who live or work in an LGA of concern  
 

Businesses are no longer required to introduce rapid antigen testing by 6 September. 

Free mental health support for your workplace during lockdown

The NSW Government is offering free, one-on-one coaching to support mental health in your workplace.  

Topics include how to manage stress, lead change, support teams remotely and where to find tools and resources. Our mental health at work experts will help you create practical solutions that meet your needs.  

You can also sign up for free mental health training to create a more supportive workplace. After training, 85% of managers felt more confident to manage workplace mental health.

New check-in card for customers without mobiles

The NSW Government has developed a free COVID-19 check-in card that allows customers, staff and visitors without a mobile to electronically check in to your business.

It’s a printed card with a unique QR code that has the customer’s registered contact details. 

When a business scans the QR code on the card, the customer’s contact details automatically update in the Service NSW business online webform. 

It’s not mandatory for your business to use this system, but it allows you to easily collect details of your customers that don’t have a mobile phone. 

Similar to checking-in, it's the best way for contact tracers to let people know if they have been at a location at the same time as a confirmed case, which helps stop COVID-19 spreading.

Find out how your business can scan a check-in card for your customers.

All businesses must update COVID Safety Plans

Due to the recent introduction of new COVID-19 safety measures across NSW, such as mandatory QR check-ins for more businesses, all COVID Safety Plans have been updated.

If your business is currently operating, you need to update your COVID Safety Plan.

If your business is currently closed, you will need to update your COVID Safety Plan before reopening.  

Keep a copy of the plan at your premises, and all staff must follow the latest rules. 

Empowering and Supporting Local Communities Grants

Community organisations and local services are best placed to know what their local communities need.

If you are a local community organisation or group, you may be eligible to apply for funding between $10,000 and $30,000 for projects that support vulnerable members of the community.

The grants program aims to increase COVID-19 testing and vaccination rates in affected LGAs and decrease the transmission of COVID-19.

Applications close 5pm, Friday 3 September.  

Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal Community Volunteer Survey

FRRR, the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal are calling on ALL VOLUNTEERS of Community Groups across Regional, Rural and Remote to participate in a survey.

Local community groups and not-for-profit organisations play a really important role in remote, rural and regional communities. But with so many things affecting so many communities – from drought, fires and floods to the mouse plague and of course the COVID-19 pandemic – how are they faring? What support do they need?

Our colleagues at @followFRRR are trying to answer this question, and more, with their Heartbeat of Rural Australia research study.

Its aim is to understand and quantify the role of community-based organisations in sustaining the vitality of remote, rural and regional Australia. 

Like FRRR, we’re keen to understand impacts of all these recent events and to identify the factors that are currently affecting the capacity, capability, influence and leadership of grassroot community group.

So, do you know of a local community group or not-for-profit making a difference in remote, rural or regional Australia? If so, please encourage them to have their say.

They are looking for responses from groups ranging from;

                • Hall management committees

                • Local environmental groups

                • Progress associations

                • Traditional Owner groups

                • Larger regional not-for-profits that may service more than one town.

Please share this survey
The more organisations that participate, the more valid the data will be, and the more influence it will have. Therefore, if your organisation is on the ground we encourage you to complete the survey yourself, and to share the survey across your rural, regional and remote community networks.

Please complete the Survey
The survey closes September 30, 2021 and takes approx 20 minutes to complete.

complete the heartbeat of rural australia survey now »

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

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