Telstra 3G shutdown is now complete

Source : Telstra 3G shutdown is now complete

It’s the end of an era, as Telstra’s 3G shutdown is now complete. Optus continue to roll out their 3G shutdown schedule.

The 3G network started operating in the early 2000s and the shutdown now allows for the development of new and improved technology.

Devices that may be impacted by the 3G shutdown include phones, smartwatches, tablets, in-home personal emergency alarms, EFTPOS terminals and fire and security alarms.

Use these links to find out more on Telstra and Optus shutdown processes, and what to do if you still need to take action. If you have a specific question about your Telstra service, call 13 22 00, and when prompted to state your issue, simply say ‘3G’. You will then be directed to a specific 3G shutdown team.

Learn How to Apply for Grant Funding: Watch This Informative Video

Source - The Funding Centre - Welcome

Are you interested in applying for grant funding but not sure where to begin? Watch this helpful video that guides you through the entire application process. Whether you're seeking funding for a community, a project or business, this video provides valuable insights and tips to improve your chances of success.

Click on the button learn more to watch the recording and gain a better understanding of the steps involved in applying for grants by the Funding Centre

Regional Tech Hub - free and independent phone and internet support

The Regional Tech Hub is funded by the Australian Government’s Better Connectivity Plan and is run by the National Farmers’ Federation. If you live or work in rural, regional and remote Australia, they are here to help you with your phone or internet. 

They can also help you understand your connectivity options and stay up to date with the latest technology.

Contact the Regional Tech Hub for free phone and internet support.

Australia’s not-for-profit workforce needs a major revamp

Source: Institute of Community Directors Australia

📊 The Not-for-Profit sector faces urgent workforce challenges with more investment and better planning needed to thrive.

Charities employ 1.47 million Australians, making NFPs the country's largest employer outside government. But submissions for the Not-for-Profit Sector Development Blueprint highlight critical staff shortages, workforce undervaluation, and a need for long-term funding.

Key priorities include: ✅ Improving workforce development strategies
✅ Creating better career pathways
✅ Supporting volunteer management
✅ Boosting diversity and inclusion

The Blueprint, set to be presented to the federal government by November's end, aims to address these issues and strengthen the sector for the future.

🚨 Youth Mental Health Crisis – We can no longer delay urgent action!

CEO of Mental Health First Aid International, Angus Clelland, urges immediate investment in mental health promotion & prevention strategies for young people. Two landmark reports highlight the worsening mental health of youth, exacerbated by global crises like the pandemic, cost-of-living, and climate change.

Key Actions Needed: ✅ Early intervention: 75% of mental health issues emerge before age 24
✅ Integrate Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) in schools
✅ Equip educators & communities to support mental health
✅ Expand access to services like Headspace & Medicare walk-in centres

The time for action is NOW! Let’s create a supportive, informed, and accessible system for young people’s mental well-being. 🌱💚

RDA celebrates 2024 at Limone Griffith

RDA Riverina Celebrates 2024 at Limone Griffith! 🎉

What an amazing night we had celebrating 2024 at Limone Griffith! From great food to fantastic company, the energy was electric as we reflected on the achievements of the Riverina and looked ahead to the exciting future we’re building together.

👉 Watch the celebration here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKFnnQdAIXA

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us – your support makes all the difference in shaping a brighter future for our region! Here’s to more success and growth in 2025!

$48 million mobile coverage boost for regional New South Wales

Source: $48 million mobile coverage boost for regional New South Wales | Ministers for the Department of Infrastructure

The Australian Government is investing $48 million to improve mobile coverage in regional New South Wales, enhancing connectivity and supporting local communities. Announced by Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King, the funding will extend reliable mobile coverage to key rural and remote areas, benefiting businesses, emergency services, and residents.

This investment is part of the government's ongoing commitment to ensuring better communication infrastructure across the country, particularly in regional and rural areas. The initiative will also improve safety and economic opportunities for local communities, with new mobile towers and coverage upgrades.

This new funding will complement existing programs aimed at reducing the digital divide, enabling more people in regional NSW to stay connected and access essential services.

The Bald Archy Prize returns for 2025

Source: The Bald Archy Prize returns for 2025 | Council News

The Bald Archy Prize is back!

Submissions are now open for the very best satirical art for the 2025 Bald Archy Prize, with a $10,000 first prize up for grabs.

The late Peter Batey OAM, who began the Prize in 1994, always insisted it be open to every artist, irrespective of style or age.

Museum of the Riverina Manager Luke Grealy is encouraging artists from all over Australia to enter.

“We’re calling for artworks that demonstrate wit and irreverence, farce and black comedy, and preferably featuring an Australian identity who is distinguished in art, science, letters, politics, sport or the media,” Mr Grealy said.

“The Bald Archy Prize was started by Peter as a send-up of the prestigious portraiture award, the Archibald Prize, and since then has become an iconic event on the Australian art calendar.

“It appeals strongly to those who wouldn’t normally visit an art gallery.”

Federal Government to Provide $80 Million in Financing to Support Rex's Regional Routes

Source: Govt announces $80m to keep Rex regional flights afloat - Inside Local Government

Federal Government to Provide $80 Million in Financing to Support Rex's Regional Routes

The Federal Government has announced it will provide up to $80 million in financing to help Rex Airlines maintain its regional routes during an extension of its voluntary administration process. The funding will support the airline’s critical services to regional communities across Australia.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King, confirmed Rex’s administrators will seek approval from the Federal Court to extend the voluntary administration until June 30, 2025. This extension will allow Rex to continue operations and repay secured creditors following the sale of Pel-Air Aviation to Helicorp Pty Ltd.

The government has also granted early access to the Fair Entitlements Guarantee (FEG) for former employees of Rex Airlines, ensuring they can access their entitlements while the company remains in administration. Additionally, Rex’s administrators and main creditor, PAG, will pay the entitlements of redundant employees from the regional arm of the business.

A government ticket sales guarantee will remain in place until June 2025 to reassure passengers, with no claims made so far. Minister King reaffirmed the government’s commitment to regional aviation, encouraging passengers to continue supporting Rex’s services.

NSW to Waive School Fees for children of parents holding Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visas and living in Regional NSW

Media Release: Workers filling regional skills gaps given access to free public schooling

The NSW Government will waive tuition fees for children of parents holding Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) visas and living in defined areas of regional NSW. This policy, aimed at addressing skills shortages in regional areas, will allow families to access free public education, saving up to $7,400 per year in fees.

The move targets skilled workers in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and construction, such as nurses, veterinarians, and dental technicians, encouraging them to relocate to regional NSW.

The reform also includes changes to enrolment policies, prioritising siblings of current students and improving access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students based on kinship or cultural needs.

Minister for Education Prue Car and Minister for Skills Steve Whan highlighted that the initiative will reduce financial strain on families and make NSW a more attractive destination for skilled workers, boosting regional economies and filling critical workforce gaps.

Funding to grow First Nations arts and culture in NSW

Source :Creative Nations NSW | business.gov.au

Applications are now open for Creative Nations NSW, a funding program designed to support and strengthen First Nations artists, organisations, and communities across New South Wales. With funding available between $10,000 and $100,000, this initiative is aimed at fostering the growth and sustainability of First Nations arts and culture.

The program is open to both individuals and organisations, and it offers financial support for projects that:

• Promote First Nations arts and culture

• Share the stories of First Nations elders

• Increase accessibility to arts and culture, including for people with disabilities

• Preserve and expand collections at cultural centres or keeping places

• Create and manage cultural festivals and events that celebrate the diversity of First Nations people

• Market and promote arts and cultural events to broader audiences

• Support cultural community gatherings and forums

Applications close on Monday, 2 December 2024, and are open to all NSW-based First Nations individuals and organisations.

For more information and to apply, visit the Creative Nations NSW website.

The 2024 Regional Development Australia National Forum

Dianna Sommerville - Chair RDA Riverina with Clare Chapple - First Assistant Secretary, Regional Development and Local Government Division DITRDCA at the 2024 Regional Development Australia National Forum held in Busselton Western Australia.

The 2024 Regional Development Australia (RDA) National Forum brought together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss key issues and opportunities facing regional Australia. Attendees included government officials, community leaders, business representative, and academic experts, all united in their commitment to fostering sustainable development in regional areas.

The forum featured a welcome address from The Hon Kirsty McBain MP, Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, a keynote address by the Mayor of The City of Busselton, Phil Cronin, panel discussions on Net Zero and Energy Transition, Housing and Skills as well as Innovation and Connectivity.

Highlights included the presentation of the successful development of Emergency Mobile Roaming by RDA Grampians and Herding Cats to Create a Defence Industry Precinct by RDA Central and Western Queensland. These innovative regional projects emphasised the importance of local solutions to local problems. The event also provided networking opportunities, enabling attendees to forge connections and partnerships.

The Town Team Movement was presented by Jimmy Murphy its founder. It is a grassroots initiative aimed at revitalising communities and enhancing local spaces through collaboration and active participation.

The RDA National Awards were presented at the forum dinner. These awards celebrate outstanding contributions to regional development across Australia, recognising individuals, organisations, and projects that have made significant impacts in their communities. They showcase innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices, with categories including leadership in regional development, community engagement, and best practice initiatives that tackle local challenges.

Winners are acknowledged for their efforts to enhance economic growth, social wellbeing, and environmental sustainability, serving as inspiration for others in the field.

Overall, the RDA 2024 National Forum successfully reinforced the importance of a united approach to regional development, setting the stage for continued collaboration and action going forward.

Smart Money Moves workshop for small business Wagga Wagga

Smart Money Moves: Grasping the break-even point for small business

This workshop, facilitated by Enterprise Plus Business Advisor, Court Sayer-Roberts, is specifically designed for small businesses catering to both newcomers and established businesses.

The primary focus of this workshop is to delve into the concept of the Break-Even Point (BEP) and its significance in ensuring the sustainability and profitability of a business.

Through this hands-on learning and interactive workshop, you will not only grasp the importance of the BEP in determining the minimum sales required for a viable business model but also enhance their ability to make informed financial decisions. 

Free training to keep small business cyber safe

A free education tool is now available to help all Australian small business stay cyber-safe and protect against financial loss.

More than third of all cyber-attacks (43%) target Australian small businesses, and each attack costs on average $46,000 in lost revenue.[1]

The Cyber Wardens is an on-line program will help empower small business owners and their staff to create a cyber safe environment. Cyber Wardens will be equipped with essential digital security skills and essential information to protect against cyber threats and recover from a cyber-attack.

By bolstering the cyber capabilities of people working in small business, it empowers them to help protect, prevent and become more resilient cyber threats. The course will give Cyber Wardens the skills to support the business to recover from a cyber-attack, or the theft of data or intellectual property.

The program is a free online course delivering accessible content which simplifies cyber security. There is no complex jargon nor specialist knowledge needed, just practical tips and quick wins that any Australian small business can put in place.

Cyber Wardens will learn:

• Effective steps to defend against digital break-ins

• how to spot common tricks and scams hackers use

• better ways to identify and protect your important business information.

 Cyber Wardens is an initiative of the Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia (COSBOA). The COSBOA want to inspire every Australian small business to train and support their own Cyber Warden. This is achieved by offering quick, accessible and free training to small business owners and employees to help them defend against cyber-attacks. The program is supported by the Australian Government and an industry alliance led by Telstra, CommBank and the Australian Cyber Security Centre. 

• Learn more: Cyber Wardens

• Enrol Now: Simplified Cyber Security for Australian Small Business (cyberwardens.com.au)

Mobile Network Hardening Program open

Shared from Mobile Network Hardening Program | Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts

MNHP Round 3 is providing $20 million (GST exclusive) in grant funding for Resilience Upgrades to mobile telecommunications infrastructure to reduce the risk of outages and improve restoration times during and after a Natural Disaster. Applications are invited from the telco industry for Resilience Upgrade projects from the:

• $10 million (GST exclusive) ‘Regional and Remote Australia’ stream for Resilience Upgrade projects in regional, remote and very remote Australia; or

• $10 million (GST exclusive) ‘Peri-urban Fringe’ stream for Resilience Upgrade projects in the peri-urban fringe of 19 capital and major regional cities.

  The Mobile Network Hardening Program is an Australian Government initiative funding upgrades to improve the resilience of Australia's mobile network telecommunications infrastructure in regional and peri-urban Australia to:

• prevent outages during a natural disaster;

• strengthen the resilience of telecommunications facilities to allow them to operate for longer during natural disasters; and

• support the rapid restoration of services following an outage.

Funding for the Program was provided in the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which was announced in the 2022–23 Budget.

Round 3

Round 3 opened for applications on 25 October 2024, with the Grant Opportunity Guidelines, Application Form and supporting documents available on GrantConnect. Applications for co-funding are open to Mobile Network Operators, Mobile Network Infrastructure Providers and Network Management Providers.

Applications must be lodged by Friday 20 December 2024 (5:00pm AEDT). 

Applications must be submitted in accordance with the Guidelines. Applicants are encouraged to review the Round 3 Project Noticeboard proposals (see below) when preparing their applications. You should also review the Guidelines and complete the Application Form, including providing the requested supporting documents.

The Government is providing up to $20 million (GST exclusive) for Round 3, which will fund mobile telecommunications Resilience Upgrades in areas impacted by, or at risk of, Natural Disasters in: 

• regional and remote Australia, and 

• the peri-urban fringe of 19 capital and major regional cities. 

The focus on areas impacted by, or at risk of, Natural Disasters reflects the increasing exposure of many regions to these events, and the need for communities to access resilient mobile communications services during and after these events.

The peri-urban fringe is where the bush meets the edges of the suburbs, creating risks of Natural Disasters for those living and working in these areas.

Expansion of Round 3 to include peri-urban areas ensures these communities will also have access to resilient mobile communications services during and after Natural Disasters.

The Welcome Experience - Wagga Wagga

Exciting News from Wagga Wagga!

We’re thrilled to share the highlights from our inaugural meeting hosted by Regional Development Australia and held at Transgrid Wagga Wagga.

This gathering brought together key partners, including NSW Police, NSW Fire & Rescue, NSW Rural Fire, NSW Health, NSW Community and Justice, NSW Education and Wagga Wagga City Council.

Focus on The Welcome Experience

A special highlight of our meeting was The Welcome Experience, an initiative by NSW Primary Industries and Regional Development aimed at supporting new residents in their transition to life in regional NSW. This comprehensive program offers a variety of resources, including:

• Community Orientation Sessions: Helping newcomers familiarise themselves with local services and attractions.

• Personalised Support: Ensuring that individuals and families have the assistance they need as they settle in.

• Networking Opportunities: Connecting newcomers with local groups and resources to foster community ties.

During our discussions, we explored innovative ways to enhance The Welcome Experience, making it even more effective for families and individuals looking to settle in Wagga Wagga. Together, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community where everyone can thrive.

Thank You!

A heartfelt thank you to all who participated in this important meeting. We are excited about the journey ahead and the positive impact we can create together.

Stay tuned for more updates on our initiatives and how you can get involved!

For more information about The Welcome Experience, visit NSW Government - Welcome Experience.

Country Change Spring 2024 Magazine Launch

Regional Development Australia are launching Country Change Spring 2024 Magazine:

A guide to discovering the unique lifestyle, community spirit and career opportunities beyond the city limits.

Community views sought for next round of Mobile Black Spot funding

Media release shared from minister.infrastructure.gov.au/rowland/media-release/community-views-sought-next-round-mobile-black-spot-funding

Local communities can help to identify potential locations for the next round of Mobile Black Spot Program (MBSP) funding through a Project Noticeboard opened by the Albanese Government today.
 
The Albanese Government’s MBSP invests in telecommunications infrastructure to deliver new and improved mobile coverage and competition across Australia.
 
Round 8 of the MBSP – which will open for applications from industry later this year - will provide $55 million in Government co-funding, targeted at natural disaster-prone locations in regional and rural Australia to better assist local communities during and after emergencies.
 
The online Project Noticeboard allows local Councillors and State, Territory and Federal Parliamentarians to identify potential projects. Telco industry applicants are encouraged to review these submissions when preparing their applications. 
 
The Project Noticeboard will close three weeks after the MBSP Round 8 opens for applications.
 
Funding for the MBSP was confirmed in the October 2022–23 Federal Budget as part of the Albanese Government’s $1.1 billion Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia.
 
In total, the Albanese Government is investing $2.2 billion in regional communications – the most significant investment since the inception of the National Broadband Network.
 
Under the MBSP to date (Rounds 1 to 7), Commonwealth funding has generated a total investment of more than $1 billion, to deliver up to 1,400 new mobile base stations across Australia.
 
To view the Project Noticeboard, or to make a submission, please visit: https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/phone/mobile-services-and-coverage/mobile-black-spot-program/register-your-project-proposal-mobile-black-spot-program-round-8
 
For more information on the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, visit: infrastructure.gov.au/bcp
 
For more information on the Mobile Black Spot Program, visit: www.infrastructure.gov.au/mbsp     
 
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
 
“Reliable, resilient mobile coverage is absolutely essential. The Albanese Government is working with industry and communities around Australia to deliver new and improved mobile coverage.
 
“Round 8 of the Mobile Blackspot Funding Program will focus on regional and rural locations that are prone to natural disasters to better protect communities during their greatest time of need.
 
“I welcome input from local communities through the online Project Noticeboard on how to best target the up-coming funding round which will open later this year. 
 
“I encourage people to speak with their local Councillors or State, Territory and Federal Parliamentarians to make their voice heard.”

Wagga Wagga City Council seeking feedback on the draft Lake Albert management plan

Image source: https://news.wagga.nsw.gov.au/news-articles/2024/october-2024/draft-lake-albert-management-plan-on-exhibition

Wagga Wagga City Council is inviting the community’s input on its proposed 10-year plan of management for the Lake Albert precinct.

The draft Lake Albert Plan of Management is now on public exhibition and is open to public submissions until 7 November through an online submission on our Have Your Say Wagga Wagga website.

The management plan covers the Lake Albert precinct and includes Crown Land, Wagga Wagga City Council Land, and commercially owned parcels of land.

Council’s Recreation Coordinator Joshua Walsh says the comprehensive 10-year document outlines a strategic framework for the future management of the Lake Albert precinct.

“This is one of Wagga Wagga’s, and the region's, most popular gathering spots, offering a range of facilities for leisure, active recreation, community events and markets and it is a natural habitat area ,” Mr Walsh said.

“Our aim through the plan is to manage the Lake Albert precinct cooperatively with, and for, the benefit of residents, the community and the wider region, and to maintain and improve the amenity of the Lake Albert precinct, consistent with the established character of the area.

“It’s important to get our community’s opinion and perspective on this draft document as it will serve as a guiding resource for the future planning, design, and management of the land.”

Full story available on Wagga Wagga City Council’s website.

Mobile Network Hardening Program Round 3 - Register your project proposal

Shared from https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/media-communications-arts/phone/mobile-network-hardening-program

The Mobile Network Hardening Program is an Australian Government initiative funding upgrades to improve the resilience of Australia's mobile network telecommunications infrastructure in regional and peri-urban Australia to:

• prevent outages during a natural disaster;

• strengthen the resilience of telecommunications facilities to allow them to operate for longer during natural disasters; and

• support the rapid restoration of services following an outage.

Funding for the Program was provided in the Better Connectivity Plan for Regional and Rural Australia, which was announced in the 2022–23 Budget.

Round 3

The Government is providing up to $20 million (GST exclusive) for Round 3, which will fund mobile telecommunications Resilience Upgrades in areas impacted by, or at risk of, Natural Disasters in: 

• regional and remote Australia, and 

• the peri-urban fringe of 19 capital and major regional cities. 

The focus on areas impacted by, or at risk of, Natural Disasters reflects the increasing exposure of many regions to these events, and the need for communities to access resilient mobile communications services during and after these events.

The peri-urban fringe is where the bush meets the edges of the suburbs, creating risks of Natural Disasters for those living and working in these areas. Expansion of Round 3 to include peri-urban areas ensures these communities will also have access to resilient mobile communications services during and after Natural Disasters.

Round 3 will be delivered in two streams:

• a $10 million (GST exclusive) ‘Regional and Remote Australia’ stream for projects that deliver Resilience Upgrades in regional, remote and very remote Australia, including First Nations communities; and

• a $10 million (GST exclusive) ‘Peri-Urban Fringe’ stream for projects that deliver Resilience Upgrades in the peri-urban fringe of 19 capital and major regional cities (consistent with Round 2 of the Peri-Urban Mobile Program). 

• Eligible areas for the two streams are shown on the Round 3 - Eligibility Map.

The Grant Opportunity Guidelines are expected to be released in October 2024. 

Project Noticeboard

A Project Noticeboard for Round 3 is now available for local governments and state, territory and federal parliamentarians to identify potential projects or locations which would benefit from a Resilience Upgrade. 

Industry applicants will be encouraged to consider the proposed projects and locations on the Project Noticeboard when developing their applications. 

It is important to note that posting on the Project Noticeboard does not guarantee that an application for funding for a project, or a project in the nominated location, will be submitted, or that funding will be allocated to the proposed project or location. However, it can help communities advise the industry of risks in regional and peri-urban Australia, and demonstrate support for new proposals.

The Round 3 Project Noticeboard will close one week before applications close to allow applicants time to consider advice provided through the Noticeboard.