Launch of Major Project Workforce Histogram and ECEC Report at Economic Development Officer Forum | March 2025

L to R - Dianna Somerville RDA Riverina Chair, Nicole Ryan General Manager of Government Stakeholder & Advocacy Transgrid, Melanie Renkin Research Officer RDA Riverina, Rachel Whiting CEO RDA Riverina, Trish Marinozzi Senior Manager Strategic Engagement and Integration Transgrid, and Matt Holt Tourism and Economic Development Officer Lockhart Shire Council.

Rachel Whiting, CEO, Regional Development Australia Riverina

On March 27, 2025, RDA Riverina and AusIndustry, in partnership with Lockhart Shire Council, hosted the Economic Development Officer Forum at The Rock. Attendees heard from various guest speakers, including representatives from Lockhart Shire Council, Destination Riverina Murray, Business NSW, Inland Rail, Transgrid, Telstra, and NBN co.

The event commenced with Cr Peter Sharp, Mayor of Lockhart Shire Council, giving an Acknowledgement of Country and a warm welcome to attendees.

Julia Ham, Principal Consultant, Early Childhood Quality Services

During the forum, RDA Riverina CEO Rachel Whiting launched two pivotal reports: the ‘Early Childhood Education and Care in the Riverina’ and the ‘Workforce Histogram’. The Early Childhood Education and Care in the Riverina report addresses the critical shortages of childcare services, providing local evidence to the Regional Australia Institute’s findings that 35% of Australian’s live in “Childcare deserts”. This report aims to inform policy, drive strategic planning, and foster collaboration to benefit the Riverina region economically and socially. It includes extensive data analysis, consultations with ECEC professionals, and surveys of providers and parents. Guest Speaker and ECEC Consultant Julia Ham emphasised the critical importance of early childhood education and care and shared further information, underscoring the urgency of addressing childcare shortages.

Nicole Ryan, Transgrid’s General Manager of Government Stakeholder & Advocacy, highlighted their Strategic Partnership with RDA Riverina. Part of the $1.5 million Workforce Development Strategic Partnership included their commitment to assist research and advocacy projects on issues of concern within the region.

Melanie Renkin, RDA’s Research Officer, guided attendees through the detailed data of the Workforce Histogram report. Her presentation shed light on the projected demand for labour and skills in the Riverina and Murray regions over the next 3-5 years, driven by significant infrastructure projects. The workforce Histogram report, stemming from the RDA Riverina Major Projects Engagement Session in late 2022, highlights the significant employment demand due to major infrastructure projects exceeding $500 million. RDA Riverina are committed to releasing further updates to the Workforce Histogram as more major projects provide the data.

The event also featured several notable guest speakers. Matt Holt, Tourism and Economic Development Officer from Lockhart Shire Council, provided insightful updated on local initiatives. Yvette Myhill, General Manager of Destination Riverina Murray, delivered an engaging tourism presentation that highlighted the region’s attraction and growth opportunities. Grant Johnston from Inland Rail shared progress on the major infrastructure project while Serena Hardwick, Regional Director of Business NSW, presented the 2024 Workforce Skills Survey, offering valuable insights into the challenges and strategies for addressing skills needs in NSW. Finally, the NBN Regional Engagement Manager discussed recent upgrades, future technology plans, and improvements in fibre and speed enhancements, promising a more connected future for the region.

The event concluded with a tour of The Rock Regional Observatory; an experience that was highly valued by attendees.

Melanie Rankin, Research Officer, RDA Riverina

Matt Holt, Tourism and Economic Development Officer, Lockhart Shire Council

EDO Forum Attendees

The Rock Regional Observatory

Nicole Ryan, General Manager of Government Stakeholder & Advocacy, Transgrid

Andrew Cottrill, Regional Engagement Manager NBN Local

EDO Forum Attendees

The Rock Regional Observatory

Business Connect | Meet Your Local Business Advisor

The local Business Connect adviser in Wagga Wagga/Junee/Cootamundra is Dylan Mottlee.

You can contact Dylan at: dylan.mottlee@enterpriseplus.org.au.

Business Connect is a dedicated and personalised NSW Government program that provides trusted advice to help you start, run, adapt, or grow your small business.

The Business Connect program is fully funded by the NSW Government. Services are free for small businesses and individuals starting a business.

New NSW Sustainable Communities Program

Photo Credits: Daniel McCullough

Last week on Thursday 13 March 2025, RDA Riverina Staff Katie Pastro and Marg Couch attended the NSW Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW Tara Moriarty’s launch of the new NSW Sustainable Communities Program in Griffith. This Program provides community assistance to help reduce the social and economic impacts of water recovery measures on NSW communities under the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

During the launch Minister Moriarty met with business leaders from across the Riverina to discuss their concerns about the program. Minister Moriarty also explained that $15 million is available for the first round of funding as part of the broader $160 million program designed to support affected communities.

The meeting is part of a wider process designed to help the NSW Government understand the needs of the Basin communities, and will provide information for the future of financial support.

Chauvel Australian Light Horse Ride

The 4th March 2025 marked 80 years since the death of Harry Chauvel, the legendary leader of Australian Light Horsemen during WW1. The 16th April 2025 will be 160 years from the birth of Harry Chauvel. To commemorate Harry, The Australian Light Horse Society is conducting a memorial ride of over 750kms to remember the hard-earned victories and courageous efforts of the Australian Light Horsemen.

Leg One is already underway.

 The remaining itinerary is:

14/3 Henty to The Rock – services in The Rock and Uranquinty

15/3 The Rock to Wagga

16/3 Service in Wagga

17/3 Wagga to Junee

18/3 Junee to Bethungra

19/3 Bethungra to Cootamundra

20/3 Cootamundra to Wallendbeen

21/3 Wallendbeen to Harden.

Leg two:

3/4 Gundagai to Tumut

4/4 Tumut to Adelong

5/4 Adelong to Batlow

6/4 Batlow to Tumbarumba

7/4 Tumbarumba to Paddy’s River

8/4 Paddy’s River to Tooma

9/4 Tooma to Tintaldra

10/4 Tintaldra to Corryong

Please click here for information and maps on the journey.

Feeding Australia: The Federal Government's Plan to Secure Our Food Future

Media Release: Minister for Agriculture, fisheries and Forestry

The Federal Government has announced the plan to develop a new national food security strategy called “Feeding Australia”. The strategy is designed to enhance the security and resilience of Australia’s agriculture and food production systems.

The strategy also aims to minimise price unpredictability and costs at the checkout by improving supply chain resilience. Despite producing enough food to feed more than twice its population, Australia still faces global supply and demand pressures, climate change and other risks.

The government will work with farmers and communities to develop the strategy, committing $3.5 million to this collaborative effort. A council comprising of industry and community experts will be established to advise on the strategy’s development and implementation.

Next Steps Toward a Sustainable Community Broadcasting Sector

Media Release: Minister for Communications

The Federal Government has welcomed the findings from the Community Broadcasting Sector Sustainability Review, a comprehensive evaluation aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of community broadcasting in Australia. This review, an election commitment, underscores the government’s dedication to supporting local media diversity and storytelling.

The review was conducted in two phases, beginning with an independent evaluation of the Community Broadcasting Program (CBP) in March 2023, followed by extensive public consultations and the release of a discussion paper in June 2024. The final report outlines four key recommendations for government consideration, focusing of CBP funding, legislative and regulatory changes, and First Nations funding and licensing.

Key findings of the review highlight the reliance of some community broadcasters on CBP funding amidst declining revenues and rising operational costs. The report suggests that the program’s effectiveness could be enhanced by reassessing funding priorities and processes. Additionally, it proposes reforms to modernise the sector and addresses specific challenges faced by the First Nations broadcasting and media sector.

The report also includes three recommendations directed at industry stakeholders, emphasising the shared responsibility of government, funding bodies, sector peak bodies, and community broadcasters in ensuring the sector’s sustainability.

In response to the review, the government has announced an additional $27 million investment to bolster the sector. This includes $15 million through the CBP, with $3 million allocated to support community television, and $12 million for the Indigenous Broadcasting and Media Program.

Community Strategic Plan (CSP) Closing Date Extension

The closing date for submissions on the draft for the Wagga Wagga City Council Community Strategic Plan (CSP) has been extended to Friday 28 March 2025. The Community Strategic Plan (CSP) is designed to provide Wagga Wagga City Council direction for future plans and strategies for the Wagga Community.

The extension was decided with the intention to give community members more time to review and provide Wagga Wagga City Council more feedback on the document.

2023 - 2024 Land Monitor Report launched

L - R: Dr Joe McGirr MP, NSW Member for Wagga Wagga; Melanie Renkin, Research Officer at RDA Riverina; Tony Balding, HIA Wagga branch ; Scott Sanbrook, CEO of Committee4Wagga; Richard Pottie, Managing Director of Ladex Construction Group Pty Ltd; Rachel Whiting, CEO of RDA Riverina; Mark Hillis, RDA Riverina Board Member

Melanie Renkin, Research Officer at RDA Riverina, presenting the data featured in the Land Monitor Report 2023 - 2024.

Launched today in Wagga Wagga, The Land Monitor Report 2023-24 offers an analysis of vacant land supply, demand, and housing trends in the Wagga Wagga local government area. Population growth is putting strain on the housing market as projections indicate a need for 222 new homes annually, while lot production decreased 43.4% this year. Decreasing land availability contributes to rising land prices, rents, and house values, negatively impacting the local economy with significant losses in potential output and jobs.

The report is the result of a collaboration between Regional Development Australia Riverina, the Housing Industry Australia Wagga branch, and Committee4Wagga.

The report examines vacant lot distribution across suburbs, time to build, lot sizes, and future residential development potential. Additionally, the report looks at building approvals, and the median cost of construction as well as vacant land.

L-R: John Sidwick, Director Regional Activation at Wagga Wagga City Council; Tony Balding, HIA Wagga branch; Melanie Renkin, Research Officer at RDA Riverina; Greg Weller, Executive Director ACT/Southern NSW at HIA

TAFE NSW Connects Digital - Survey

TAFE NSW is seeking feedback to help TAFE NSW deliver services and spaces that will help your community thrive. Whether you have been to TAFE or not they would love to hear your thoughts.

Close Date: 31 March

Help Make NSW Sport more inclusive - survey

The State Government agency for sport and active recreation, is partnering with Multicultural NSW to learn more about how people from diverse communities participate in sport.

Your feedback will help the Government better understand people’s experiences and help to make sport in NSW more inclusive.

Government Announces Universal Outdoor Mobile Coverage Reform

The Labor Government has unveiled a world-first reform to provide basic universal outdoor mobile coverage across Australia. The initiative, known as the Universal Outdoor Mobile Obligation (UOMO), mandates mobile carriers to offer mobile voice and SMS services almost everywhere in the country.

The UOMO reform aims to expand mobile coverage up to 5 million square kilometres, including over 37,000 kilometres of regional roads. This will ensure that Australians have access to mobile services in national parks, hiking trails, farms, and other outdoor areas where they can see the sky.

Key objectives of the UOMO include:

• Expanding access to Triple Zero emergency services nationwide.

• Addressing existing mobile black spots to improve outdoor voice and SMS coverage.

• Enhancing the availability of mobile signals during disasters and power outages.

This ambitious reform is made possible by advancements in Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEOSats) and Direct to Device (D2D) technology, which allow signals from space to reach mobile devices directly. The government plans to introduce legislation in 2025, with the implementation of outdoor SMS and voice services expected by late 2027. Many Australians are likely to gain access before then.

The government will collaborate with stakeholders and industry to ensure the legislation is effective and adaptable, considering factors such as supply and spectrum availability. Additionally, the government will work with the University of Technology Sydney to expand handset testing, ensuring consumers are informed about device compatibility and experience.

This initiative is part of the government's broader commitment to modernising Australia's telecommunications infrastructure, including a $3 billion investment to complete the fibre NBN. The government will also continue to evolve its co-investment programs, such as the Mobile Black Spot Program and Mobile Network Hardening Program, to further expand terrestrial mobile coverage, resilience, and capacity.

Wagga Wagga Rail Bypass

The Federal Government has announced a $30 million investment plan for a potential rail bypass of Wagga Wagga. This initiative, known as the Wagga Wagga Freight Bypass - Planning project, aims to enhance freight movement, productivity, and the resilience of the rail network in the region.

The current Inland Rail route, designed by former federal Governments, passes through the centre of Wagga Wagga. In response to community concerns about potential disruptions, the government is planning modifications to limit noise and ensure adequate cross-town access. The Independent Review of Inland Rail recommended planning for an alternative route once the Inland Rail has been operational for some years.

The planning works are expected to begin in 2025 and be completed by mid-2030. This project is part of the government's broader commitment to infrastructure investment in New South Wales, with a total commitment of $21 billion over the next 10 years.

Griffith agricultural business named as finalists for prestigious award

Griffith’s Mandolé Orchard has been named as a finalist in the most prestigious competition of the Sydney Royal Wine, Beer & Cider, Distilled Spirits, Cheese & Dairy Produce, and Fine Food Shows.

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW President’s Medal recognises and rewards Australia’s best producers, who are recognised for the overall integrity of their production practices. The medal is awarded to those who not only bring a product to market but also ensure the sustainability and prosperity of the future of Australian agriculture.

The judging criteria are governed by a triple bottom line approach which examines the sustainability of environmental, economic and social-good management practices throughout the production cycle from farm gate to plate.

The Mandolé Orchard is a sustainable family farm established in 2004 in Griffith, committed to growing and producing high quality Australian almonds and almond-based products.

Eight finalists are competing for the 18th Annual President’s Medal. The medal winner will be announced at the Sydney Royal Easter Show on 16 April 2025.

Social Impact Management Plan - Survey

Transgrid would like Riverina residents to provide feedback on the HumeLink West and HumeLink East Social Impact Management Plan (SIMP) Survey.

The (SIMP) is designed to outline the process of managing and monitoring social impacts and identifying opportunities that can improve the social and economic benefits of HumeLink.

A podcast on RESETTLEMENT: Wiradyuri Gawaymbanha-gu Malamanha

Listen to Luke Wighton, a Wiradyuri man from Condobolin as he talks to Elders who share and discuss their histories, memories, and reflections on living as Indigenous peoples. On his new podcast titled RESETTLEMENT: Wiradyuri Gawaymbanha-gu Malamanha.

The recordings were made in 2024, 50 years after the launch of the Aboriginal Family Resettlement Scheme. The scheme aimed to encourage families to move from smaller and remote communities to larger rural communities such as Wagga Wagga to be closer to essential health and educational services.

Government Invests Over $21 Million in Regional NSW Infrastructure Projects

The Australian Government has committed over $21 million to enhance social infrastructure in regional New South Wales. This investment will support four major projects aimed at revitalising town precincts and boosting local economies.

Key Actions:

1. Cessnock: Over $14 million will transform Apex Park into a vibrant precinct, connecting local businesses, community groups, service providers, and the Cessnock Pool recreation area.

2. Mudgee: $2 million will be invested in the Mortimer Street Precinct to revitalise the south-eastern section of the Mudgee CBD, including plans for a hotel, residential apartments, commercial shops, restaurants, car parks, green spaces, and pedestrian connections.

3. Bathurst: The Connected Regional Neighbourhoods project will receive $1.7 million to develop a business case, master plan, and concept designs for the Bathurst CBD, incorporating smart, sustainable technologies and active transport infrastructure.

4. Cobar: Nearly $3.5 million will fund the design and planning works for the Grand Precinct, including the redesign of the Grand Hotel into a cultural-commercial hub, library upgrades, town hall restoration, senior housing, and streetscape improvements.

These projects are part of the regional Precincts and Partnership Program, which aims to transform regional, rural, and remote areas by investing in community infrastructure.

NBN Co Completes $480 Million Upgrade to Fixed Wireless and Satellite Services

Households and businesses in regional, remote, and outer-urban areas are now benefiting from faster broadband and increased data capacity, following the completion of NBN Co’s $480 million upgrade to its Fixed Wireless and Satellite services.

The upgrade has enabled around 800,000 premises to access broadband speeds of at least 100/20 Mbps. These enhanced speeds facilitate smoother streaming, faster downloads and uploads, and stronger connections, even with multiple devices online simultaneously.

The fixed wireless upgrades have significantly improved average end-user download speeds, increasing from approximately 48 Mbps in 2022 to over 100 Mbps today. Additionally, the use of the latest 4G and 5G wireless technology has allowed an extra 120,000 premises to access fixed wireless services for the first time.

NBN Co has introduced two new faster speed tiers, with around 90% of premises in the fixed wireless footprint now able to access speeds of up to 200-250 Mbps download, and around 80% of premises able to access speeds of up to 400 Mbps.

These upgrades are designed to meet Australia’s growing demand for data. The average Australian household currently uses more than 450GB of data per month, with around 22 connected devices. This is expected to increase to 1 Terabyte and more than 40 devices by the end of the decade.

In addition to the fixed wireless upgrades, the program has also enhanced NBN’s Sky Muster satellite service, providing much-needed connectivity options for over 200,000 households and businesses in regional and remote Australia. Customers now have access to unlimited data through NBN Co’s Sky Muster Plus Premium, offering download speeds of up to 100 Mbps.

This $480 million upgrade complements the Albanese Government’s broader investment in delivering a world-class NBN fibre network, backed by an additional $3 billion equity investment.

Government Ensures Future of Regional Aviation Services

The Australian Government has announced measures to secure critical aviation services for regional Australia. Collaborating with the administrators of Regional Express Holdings (Rex), the government aims to ensure these services continue beyond 30 June 2025.

Key Actions:

• Support for Rex: Working with shortlisted bidders to provide necessary support, contingent on maintaining service levels for regional communities.

• Contingency Plans: Exploring options, including potential Commonwealth acquisition, if no buyer is found.

• Financial Aid: Providing a loan of up to $80 million and acquiring $50 million of Rex's debt to keep regional routes operational.

• Operational Support: Waiving the "use it or lose it" test for Rex's flight slots at Sydney Airport until 24 October 2026.

These steps highlight the government's commitment to maintaining connectivity and supporting local economies in regional and remote areas.

Funding to strengthen First Nations arts and languages

The Australian Government is investing over $68 million to support First Nations arts and language organisations across Australia. This funding, distributed through the Indigenous Visual Arts Industry Support (IVAIS) and Indigenous Languages and Arts (ILA) programs, aims to sustain vital cultural practices.

IVAIS Program:

• Over $38 million allocated to 83 First Nations-owned art centres, fairs, regional hubs, and industry service organisations.

• Supports artists and arts workers in earning income, developing skills, and connecting to the art market.

ILA Program:

• Nearly $30 million for 70 community-led language and arts activities.

• Focuses on conserving and revitalising First Nations languages and cultural expressions.

Notable grant recipients include Arlpwe Artists Aboriginal Corporation in NT, Ardyaloon Art and Culture Centre in WA, and Numburindi Development Aboriginal Corporation in NT.

Ministers Tony Burke and Malarndirri McCarthy highlighted the importance of these programs in preserving and promoting First Nations cultures, ensuring sustainable infrastructure for future generations.

Australian Government Invests $12 Million to Upgrade Regional Airports in NSW

The Australian Government is investing nearly $12 million to upgrade regional airports across New South Wales under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Program. These upgrades are vital for regional communities, providing better access to emergency healthcare, commerce, industry, tourism, and education.

Key Projects and Funding:

• Merimbula Airport: $3.8 million for an 80-metre runway extension, enabling larger aircraft to land.

• Moruya Airport: Over $200,000 for runway, taxiway, and apron resealing, and lighting replacement.

• Albury Airport: $5 million for a full runway overlay to improve safety and support larger aircraft.

• Moree Regional Airport: $1 million to upgrade the aeromedical apron, taxiway, and parking bays.

• Griffith Regional Airport: Almost $500,000 to replace ageing runway lights.

• Mudgee Regional Airport: $220,000 for stormwater drainage upgrades.

These improvements will enhance safety, accessibility, and capacity at regional airports, supporting emergency services, boosting the economy, and promoting tourism.