Tender awarded for Brindabella Road survey and design
The Albanese Government is committed to improving road safety across Eden-Monaro, with significant upgrades to priority sections of Brindabella Road, from the Brindabella Valley to the ACT border, a step closer.
Source: Tender awarded for Brindabella Road survey and design
The Albanese Government is committed to improving road safety across Eden-Monaro, with significant upgrades to priority sections of Brindabella Road, from the Brindabella Valley to the ACT border, a step closer.
Snowy Valleys Council has appointed Rigore Engineering Services to undertake the road survey and design – important preparatory work for this project.
There have been long running calls for upgrades to Brindabella Road from residents, the local council and the Brindabella Road the Economic Link Group – which is why the Albanese Government is investing $37.4 million in this region-shaping project.
This investment will support upgrades to a 10.6-kilometre section of Brindabella Road, from the intersection of Goodradigbee River Bridge, to Piccadilly Circus on the New South Wales/ACT border.
The survey and design works will get underway in early 2025 and are expected to be finalised in September 2025, with construction to commence in late 2025.
More funding to support advocacy to keep broadband affordable
The Albanese Government is delivering additional funding to the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) to further its work in representing the interests of telco consumers, in line with its commitment in the 2024-25 Budget.
Source: More funding to support advocacy to keep broadband affordable
The Albanese Government is delivering additional funding to the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) to further its work in representing the interests of telco consumers, in line with its commitment in the 2024-25 Budget.
As the peak communications consumer body, ACCAN advocates for the interests of Australian communications consumers by representing individuals, small businesses and not-for profit groups on communications matters.
Under the current regulatory regime for the publicly owned NBN, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) regulates NBN Co’s wholesale prices, expenditure and service standards.
The Albanese Government has committed to keeping the NBN in public ownership and retaining independent oversight of wholesale prices to keep broadband more affordable for more Australians
This new funding of up to $2.5 million will enable ACCAN to advocate for the interests of consumers as part of processes required under NBN Co’s Special Access Undertaking (SAU) which is overseen by the ACCC.
Under the SAU, NBN Co must consult with consumer advocacy groups and industry on its proposed investments, baseline service standards and entry level pricing offer. ACCAN will utilise funding under this grant agreement to participate in and inform these consultation processes.
This builds on the Government’s existing funding of ACCAN through the Consumer Representation Grants Program.
Moving forward on First Nations digital inclusion
The Albanese Government welcomes the First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap to address key barriers to digital inclusion. The roadmap is the culmination of nearly two years of work by the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group (FNDIAG), established in January 2023.
Source: Moving forward on First Nations digital inclusion
The Albanese Government welcomes the First Nations Digital Inclusion Roadmap to address key barriers to digital inclusion.
The roadmap is the culmination of nearly two years of work by the First Nations Digital Inclusion Advisory Group (FNDIAG), established in January 2023.
Led by co-chairs Dot West OAM and Dr Lyndon Ormond-Parker, the Advisory Group is providing advice on progressing Target 17 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap: to achieve equal levels of digital inclusion for First Nations people by 2026.
The roadmap has been informed by extensive engagement with First Nations people and communities, including in remote areas.
In addition to supporting Target 17, the recommendations from the roadmap support First Nations digital innovation and excellence.
The roadmap highlights the considerable benefits of digital inclusion, including access to services and information, social connection and economic opportunity.
The Albanese Government is delivering on key recommendations of the Advisory Group’s initial report to Government, by committing $68 million to First Nations digital inclusion programs.
This includes the free community Wi-Fi initiative for remote communities, a First Nations Digital Support Hub, and network of digital mentors.
It also includes additional funding to RMIT University to improve national data collection on First Nations digital inclusion to better track progress, and target future initiatives, as part of the Australian Digital Inclusion Index.
The Government will consider the recommendations of the roadmap and continue to work closely with the FNDIAG to improve digital inclusion in the areas of access, affordability and digital ability.
Eastern Riverina Arts | Country Arts Support Program (CASP) - applications opening soon!
The Country Arts Support Program (CASP) is an annual small grants program funded by Create NSW and managed locally by Eastern Riverina Arts. It is guided by Create NSW’s Arts and Cultural Funding Program’s three major objectives.
Source: Eastern Riverina Arts | Country Arts Support Program (CASP)
The Country Arts Support Program (CASP) is an annual small grants program funded by Create NSW and managed locally by Eastern Riverina Arts. It is guided by Create NSW’s Arts and Cultural Funding Program’s three major objectives:
Grow creative leadership and programming excellence in NSW
Strengthen NSW arts and cultural activity that drives community and social benefits
Showcase NSW as a leader for strategic arts and cultural governance and strong financial management.
Create NSW’s objective for this program is to support community arts and cultural development in regional NSW through small grants that:
Assist locally determined community arts and cultural activities
Increase opportunities for regionally based groups to access a diverse range of arts programs
Enable communities to explore and express their cultural identities
There are two streams available through the Eastern Riverina Arts Country Arts Support Program to support proposals for 2025:
For Individuals, max $750 – for professional development or the realisation/presentation of an ambitious artistic outcome, or
For Projects, max $3000 – for original creative projects and collaborations that meet the eligibility criteria.
Applications open: Monday 16th December 2024, 9:00am
Applications close: Monday 3rd February 2025, 9:00am
Dates for CASP information sessions across the region will be announced soon—stay tuned for a session near you!
Multicultural NSW | 2025 Multicultural Community Medals program has expanded. Nominations NOW OPEN for multicultural media and marketing medals!
The Multicultural NSW Multicultural Community Medals program has expanded. Nominations are NOW OPEN for multicultural media and marketing medals under the 2025 Multicultural Community Medals program.
Source: 2025 Multicultural Community Medals - Media and Marketing Medals
Nominations are open for multicultural media and marketing medals under the 2025 Multicultural Community Medals program. These medals are:
Best Report in Multicultural Media – recognising excellence in journalism for multicultural media (text, audio, and/or audio-visual report)
Multicultural Publication of the Year – recognising outstanding contribution of a multicultural media publication in informing and engaging its audience
Multicultural Marketing Campaign of the Year – recognising excellence in delivering a multicultural campaign.
The new medals recognise excellence in multicultural media and marketing, and the important role stories and campaigns play in communicating with diverse audiences in NSW.
The winners will be recognised at the 2025 Premier's Harmony Dinner in March 2025.
Nominations close on 14 January 2025 at 5pm.
RDA Riverina Committee Chair position available
RDA Riverina is seeking applications for the Committee Chair position.
The RDA Committee Chair has overall responsibility for setting strategic direction and ensuring that objectives and outcomes of their RDA Committee are achieved. They appoint the Deputy Chair (following Ministerial agreement) and the members.
RDA Riverina is seeking applications for the Committee Chair position.
The RDA Committee Chair has overall responsibility for setting strategic direction and ensuring that objectives and outcomes of their RDA Committee are achieved. They appoint the Deputy Chair (following Ministerial agreement) and the members.
The Chair has a hands-on role and is active in facilitating economic development opportunities for the region.
Applicants must meet the selection criteria:
1. Leadership and governance – experience in leading organisations including an understanding of the relevant governance and performance management principles as they relate to volunteer committees.
2. Delivery focus – experience in leading high performing organisations that have had success in achieving outcomes within tight timeframes and in a difficult and complex environment.
3. Stakeholder engagement – experience managing a broad range of stakeholders in a complex environment to achieve successful outcomes.
4. Representational skills – experience representing regional, business and/or industry interests, highly developed networks and networking skills, can collaborate with integrity, transparency, respect and accountability, and an ability to translate these into economic development opportunities.
5. Commitment to the region – have a clear and strong commitment to the region including an understanding of local/state issues and how the RDA(s) can broker solutions to these issues. Members of standalone Capital City RDAs should reside in the capital city, and/or have strong relationships with regional and capital city stakeholders.
6. Commitment to diversity – have a clear and strong commitment to diversity, including building strong relationships with diverse communities, especially First Nations people, and supporting gender equality opportunities.
Applications close on Monday 23 December, 5pm local time.
Successful applicants will commence in their role from 1 April 2025.
Learn more and apply now: https://rda.gov.au/Chair
Why Australian needs a training boost
One-third of Australian occupations are facing worker shortages, especially in fields impacted by global megatrends like digital transformation, AI, an ageing workforce and the energy transition. To address this, we need to boost work-related training, including short courses, online modules, and leadership programs.
Source : CEDA
Source - CEDA Committee for Economic Development of Australia
One-third of Australian occupations are facing worker shortages, especially in fields impacted by global megatrends like digital transformation, AI, an ageing workforce and the energy transition. To address this, we need to boost work-related training, including short courses, online modules, and leadership programs.
This training, whether voluntary or mandatory, is crucial for improving job effectiveness and compliance with regulations. Employers and employees invest over $12 billion annually in training, which is vital for increasing productivity and closing skill gaps.
Compared with otherwise similar people who do not participate in training, incomes increase by an average of about 20 per cent in the year after starting training. Training cannot just be a one-off, however, as this effect fades over time. There are benefits for firms who provide training, too, as participating workers will on average be more productive, more satisfied at work and less likely to move jobs.
Skilled visa nomination 2024/25 is open
The NSW Government has officially opened its skilled visa nomination program for the 2024-25 program year, bringing forward important updates designed to simplify the application process and create more opportunities for individuals and families looking to start a new chapter in New South Wales.
This program is a key part of addressing critical skills shortages and supporting industries undergoing significant change. NSW’s Priority Sectors for 2024-25 include:
🔹 Construction (infrastructure and housing)
🔹 Renewables (net zero & clean energy)
🔹 Care Economy (aged care, disability services, early childhood education)
🔹 Digital & Cyber (across all sectors)
🔹 Education (teachers)
🔹 Agriculture & Agrifood
🔹 Advanced Manufacturing
NSW has also published updated skills lists to highlight the vital roles that will help drive the state's growth. If you're looking to make a move to NSW and more so the Riverina, now is the time! 🌏
The NSW Government has officially opened its skilled visa nomination program for the 2024-25 program year, bringing forward important updates designed to simplify the application process and create more opportunities for individuals and families looking to start a new chapter in New South Wales.
This program is a key part of addressing critical skills shortages and supporting industries undergoing significant change. NSW’s Priority Sectors for 2024-25 include:
🔹 Construction (infrastructure and housing)
🔹 Renewables (net zero & clean energy)
🔹 Care Economy (aged care, disability services, early childhood education)
🔹 Digital & Cyber (across all sectors)
🔹 Education (teachers)
🔹 Agriculture & Agrifood
🔹 Advanced Manufacturing
NSW has also published updated skills lists to highlight the vital roles that will help drive the state's growth.
Celebrating the Success of the Narrandera Destination and Discovery Hub!
Since opening in November 2023, the Narrandera Destination and Discovery Hub has quickly become a must-visit spot for tourists from near and far—including visitors from Greater Melbourne, Greater Sydney, South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland!
Since opening in November 2023, the Narrandera Destination and Discovery Hub has quickly become a must-visit spot for tourists from near and far—including visitors from Greater Melbourne, Greater Sydney, South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland! 🌏✈️ Plus, overseas visitors are starting to return, bringing even more excitement to our beautiful region! 🎉
From snapping photos with the big playable acoustic guitar 🎸 to exploring the Tiger Moth Memorial 🛩️, there’s something for everyone at the Hub! Let’s not forget about our amazing regional products and souvenirs—40% of visitors are picking up something special! 🛍️
A huge thank you to our fantastic team for creating such a welcoming atmosphere and providing helpful local info. 👏
So, if you’ve got friends or family visiting this holiday season, make sure they visit the Narrandera Destination and Discovery Hub—the perfect spot to start exploring!
Community War Memorials Fund
The objective of the Community War Memorials Fund is to help conserve, repair and protect war memorials across NSW to support community commemoration.
The objective of the Community War Memorials Fund is to help conserve, repair and protect war memorials across NSW to support community commemoration.
Two application rounds are run each year. The rounds open on Anzac Day and Remembrance Day.
Applications to the CWMF must align with and be submitted under one of the below category descriptions:
Category A - Engaging heritage or other relevant specialists (such as engineers) to produce reports relating to the repair, protection and/or conservation of existing war memorials.
Category B - Physical works relating to the repair, protection and/or conservation of existing war memorials. Reminder: The CWMF supports projects for existing war memorials. Applications cannot be submitted for the construction of new war memorials
The CWMF is valued at $250,000 annually. This is split evenly across the two rounds per year, each valued at $125,000. The maximum CWMF grant that will be awarded for any one application will ordinarily be $10,000 (excl. GST), unless extraordinary circumstances prevail, or a war memorial of state or national significance is considered to be at risk. This will be determined by the State War Memorials Committee. Extraordinary circumstances may include the necessity for urgent works to protect original fabric, or to rectify immediate safety concerns. A maximum amount of $15,000 may be awarded in these circumstances.
Grants for work to improve the accessibility of war memorials, such as access ramps, are capped at $2,000 (excl. GST).
Grants for necessary work to conserve significant trophy guns are generally capped at $10,000 (excl. GST). Subsequent grants will only be considered in extraordinary circumstances.
Men's Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Small Grants Program offering up to $50,000 per project
Funded by NSW Health - The objectives of the Men's Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Small Grants Program are to:
conduct community driven and well supported mental health, resilience and wellbeing projects, targeting men
deliver mental health, resilience and wellbeing benefits to individuals and groups of men across the state
reduce loneliness and social isolation among men
promote mental health, wellbeing and resilience among men, in general, or a specific population group of men such as Aboriginal men, boys and young adult men, older men, men living with a disability, men living in rural and remote areas, or LGBTQ+ men.
establish connections between community mental health and wellbeing organisations for ongoing referral and support pathways
develop the cultural competency and cultural safety of mental health and wellbeing organisations to increase their accessibility and responsiveness to priority population groups of men
Men's Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Small Grants Program offering up to $50,000 per project to deliver community activities, programs, and events supporting men's mental health and suicide prevention.
Funded by NSW Health - The objectives of the Men's Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Small Grants Program are to:
conduct community driven and well supported mental health, resilience and wellbeing projects, targeting men
deliver mental health, resilience and wellbeing benefits to individuals and groups of men across the state
reduce loneliness and social isolation among men
promote mental health, wellbeing and resilience among men, in general, or a specific population group of men such as Aboriginal men, boys and young adult men, older men, men living with a disability, men living in rural and remote areas, or LGBTQ+ men.
establish connections between community mental health and wellbeing organisations for ongoing referral and support pathways
develop the cultural competency and cultural safety of mental health and wellbeing organisations to increase their accessibility and responsiveness to priority population groups of men
Regional Development Australia Riverina New Resident’s guide
RDA Riverina has created a guide for new residents.
The Riverina New Resident’s Guide contains information in plain English covering:
Part 1: Important tasks for your first weeks in Australia
Part 2: Living in the Riverina
Part 3: Becoming part of your local community
You can download the guide here:
Regional Development Australia Riverina new resident’s guide
RDA Riverina has created a guide for new residents. This comprehensive guide is a valuable resource for individuals and families transitioning to the Riverina region. Showcasing a rich history, vibrant culture, booming economy and natural beauty of the Riverina.
The Riverina New Resident’s Guide contains information in plain English covering:
Part 1: Important tasks for your first weeks in Australia
Part 2: Living in the Riverina
Part 3: Becoming part of your local community
You can download the guide here:
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.
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
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.
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
📊 The Not-for-Profit sector faces urgent workforce challenges with more investment and better planning needed to thrive.
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.
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 the start of 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
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
The Australian Government is investing $48 million to improve mobile coverage in regional New South Wales, enhancing connectivity and supporting local communities.
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
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.
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.”