Industry-Led Projects Driving Heavy Vehicle Safety with $4.2 Million Investment
The Australian Government and National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) are continuing to improve safety for everyone on Australia’s roads by funding 12 crucial industry-lead projects through Round 10 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI).
Image Credit: Chris
Media Release: Assistant Minister for Regional Development
The Australian Government and National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) are continuing to improve safety for everyone on Australia’s roads by funding 12 crucial industry-lead projects through Round 10 of the Heavy Vehicle Safety Initiative (HVSI).
To date, the Australian Government has invested more that $45 million across 182 HVSI projects since the program started in 2016, delivering safety improvements across Australia’s heavy vehicle industry and protecting all road users,
The trucking industry is vital for the Australia economy and way of life, with Australia’s road freight expected to grow by 77% between 2020 and 2050.
Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government Sustainability
The Australia Government has announced a Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government Sustainability, referred to the Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport.
Image Credit: Marcus Reubenstein
Media Release: Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories
The Australia Government has announced a Parliamentary Inquiry into Local Government Sustainability, referred to the Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport.
This inquiry will explore key challenges facing local councils, including:
Financial sustainability and funding sources
Workforce security
Cost shifting between different levels of government
The Committee will build on work from the previous term, which highlighted issues such as declining council revenue, increasing service obligations, and unique pressures on regional councils compared to metropolitan areas.
Have your say:
Written submissions are open until 3 February 2026. Previous submissions will still be considered, but new or updated contributions are welcome.
For more details, including the Terms of Reference and how to make a submission, visit the official announcement below:
Whitton Malt House Celebrates Five Years of Innovation
This month, Marg Couch Joined the celebrations marking five years since Whitton Malt House first opened its doors. What began as a bold vision has become a destination loved by locals and visitors alike, a place to gather, dine, educate and celebrate.
Image L to R: Serena Hardwick, Regional Director, Business NSW; Matt Leonard, Chief Operating Officer, Southern Cotton; Kaitlin Leonard, General Manager, Whitton Malt House; Leanne; Rodger; Annette Commins, Marg Couch, Local Connector, RDA Riverina; and Tim Commins, Southern Cotton | Whitton Malt House
This month, Marg Couch Joined the celebrations marking five years since Whitton Malt House first opened its doors. What began as a bold vision has become a destination loved by locals and visitors alike, a place to gather, dine, educate and celebrate.
The celebration dinner last week showcased the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our region. Roger Commins, his family, and business partners continue to inspire their commitment to growth and innovation. The team is now expanding with the first stage of a 22-stie caravan park, scheduled for completion in early 2026.
It’s exciting to see the next generation stepping up, with Manager Kaitlin Leonard carrying forward her father’s vision. Looking ahead, Whitton Malt House will host major events, starting with the Riverina Field Days in March 2026, followed by large-scale music festivals and more over the next year.
Congratulations to Whitton Malt House and all those who helped build the dream, on this remarkable milestone.
Wagga Wagga Inland Rail Update
Wagga Wagga residents should be aware of major traffic changers now underway as part of the Inland Rail Project. From 22 November 2025, the Edmondson Street bridge has been closed for a trial period to test traffic mitigation measures ahead of its planned demolition and rebuild. This work is essential to accommodate double-staked freight trains through the city.
Image Credit: Inland Rail, Edmondson Street Bridge
Wagga Wagga residents should be aware of major traffic changes now underway as part of the Inland Rail Project. From 22 November 2025, the Edmondson Street bridge has been closed for a trial period to test traffic mitigation measures ahead of its planned demolition and rebuild. This work is essential to accommodate double-stacked freight trains through the city.
What does this mean for you?
Traffic Detours: Expect changes across Wagga, including:
Temporary roundabout at Macleay and Coleman Streets,
Lane separators and turning restrictions
Parking restrictions near work zones
Updated signage.
Traffic delays which are expected to be around 10 minutes during peak periods.
Bus Routes: School and public bus timetables have been adjusted. Check the Transport for NSW Trip Planner or Busabout Wagga for updated routes.
Pedestrian Access: While the bridge is closed to vehicles, pedestrian access remains via Mothers Bridge and Cassidy Street footbridge.
Duration: If the trial proves successful, the bridge will remain closed for approximately 18 months while the new, taller and wider structure is built.
To learn more, view road closure maps, and access other information, please click the button below.
New Funding to Keep Communities Informed
Diverse and regional communities will get the news that matters to them,, through a $67 million investment from the Australian Government.
Image Credit: Markus Winkler
Media Release: Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport
Diverse and regional communities will get the news that matters to them, through a $67 million investment from the Australian Government.
Now open for applications, the new Journalism Assistance Fund will support Australian news outlets to keep journalists employed and produce news that informs and educates. More than $67 million will be delivered under the program, with successful applicants able to access up to $39,000 for each eligible full-time-equivalent journalist they employ over the three financial years to June 2028.
To read the full media release click the button below.
Arthur Boyd’s Art Returns to Bundanon
Eleven works by one of Australia’s most beloved artists, Arthur Boyd, will be loaned to Bundanon Art Museum thanks to the Australian Government’s Sharing the National Collection Program.
Media Release: Minister for the Arts
Image Credit: Dannie Jing
Eleven works by one of Australia’s most beloved artists, Arthur Boyd, will be loaned to Bundanon Art Museum thanks to the Australian Government’s Sharing the National Collection Program.
Bundanon is an Australian cultural institution and living arts centre that supports the arts through its residency, education, exhibition and performance programs. On loan from the National Gallery of Australia, Bundanon will present the works in two parts exploring the artist’s early career. Created in the 1930s when Boyd lived with his grandfather at Port Phillip Bay, the works fill a gap in the chronology of Bundanon’s collection.
To read the full media release click the button below.
The Music Sounds Better Across Australia
The Australian Government is delivering on its commitment to support our live music industry to keep venues open and festivals entertaining fans across the country.
Media Release: Minister for the Arts
Image Credit: Danny Howe
The Australian Government is delivering on its commitment to support our live music industry to keep venues open and festivals entertaining fans across the country. Through the ReviveLive program, the Australian Government will provide support to 105 organisations across Australia.
59 music festivals 46 live music venues will receive support for performances and upgrades including to improve accessibility for people with a disability. The funding ensures music venues and festivals, including those in regional and remote areas across Australia remain open and accessible to all audiences.
To read the full media release follow click the button below.
Exploring UNSW’s New Rural Clinical Campus in Wagga Wagga
Yesterday, our operations manager had the privilege of attending the UNSW Rural Clinical Campuses Wagga Wagga Community Tour, held at the Biomedical Sciences Centre on Edward Street. This purpose-build facility represents a major investment in rural medical education and is set to transform healthcare training in our region.
Yesterday, our operations manager had the privilege of attending the UNSW Rural Clinical Campuses Wagga Wagga Community Tour, held at the Biomedical Sciences Centre on Edward Street. This purpose-built facility represents a major investment in rural medical education and is set to transform healthcare training in our region.
The tour offered a first-hand look at UNSW’s state-of-the-art learning spaces, including specialised science laboratories, high-tech simulation facilities, and a dry anatomy lab. These resources will ensure that medical students in Wagga Wagga have access to the same advanced technology and teaching standards as their Sydney counterparts.
What stood out most was the centre’s strategic location adjacent to Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, enabling long-term clinical placements and fostering strong partnerships with the Murrumbidgee Local Health District. This approach will help train the next generation of doctors to live and work in rural and regional areas, addressing critical workforce needs.
The facility hosts students across all six years of UNSW’s undergraduate medical degree, including many from rural backgrounds. Research shows these students are more likely to remain in regional communities, which is great news for the Riverina.
Part of the laboratory space
Learning space
Attendees and the Guide for the event.
Part of the simulation facilities
Investment to Boost Drought Resilience Across Regional NSW
The Australian and NSW State Governments will jointly invest $43.2 million to support farmers to strengthen their drought resilience and climate adaptation, as drought continues to impact regional communities across NSW.
Image Credit: Ramy Loaiza
Media release: The premier, Minister for Agriculture
The Australian and NSW State Governments will jointly invest $43.2 million to support farmers to strengthen their drought resilience and climate adaptation, as drought continues to impact regional communities across NSW.
Delivered through Phase 2 of the Farm Business Resilience Program (FBRP), the funding will support farmers to access subsidised learning and development opportunities that will help them to manage risk, build long-term operational resilience, and continue to remain productive.
From personalised coaching, workshops, digital learning, and peer-to-peer case studies, the FBRP equips farmers with practical support to ensure they are better prepared before, during and after these challenging periods.
To read the full media release follow the link below.
New Developments to Narrow Digital Gap for First Nations Australians
The Australian Government is narrowing the digital divide for First Nations Australians through its $68 million investment to boost digital inclusion and literacy for communities across the country.
Image Credit: Rodion Kutsaiev
Media Release: Minister for Communications, Minister for Sport
The Australian Government is narrowing the digital divide for First Nations Australians through its $68 million investment to boost digital inclusion and literacy for communities across the country. Better digital access means better access to learning, health care and other essential services, especially for people in remote communities.
As part of this, up to 52 remote communities in the Northern Territory, Western Australia, South Australia, Queensland and Tasmania will benefit from free publicly accessible Wi-Fi through the $20 million First Nations Community Wi-fi Program.
To read the full media release follow the link below.
New Maritime Training Initiative for Seafarers
The Australian Government has launched the Maritime Skills and Training Initiative (MSTI, a new program that will provide access to sea time for up to 20 trainee and cadet seafarers.
Image Credit: Nico Smit
Media Release: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
The Australian Government has launched the Maritime Skills and Training Initiative (MSTI), a new program that will provide access to sea time for up to 20 trainee and cadet seafarers. This program, a $13.8 million contribution from the Government over four years will help address skill shortages and enhance workforce capabilities across the maritime sector through providing financial grants to employers to help support access.
This program is a key outcome of the 2023 Strategic Fleet Taskforce Report, helping pave the way for the next generation of seafarers, by enabling them to complete the sea time required for international certification. The investment in this program showcases the Australian Government’s investment in ensuring our maritime sector remains a key driver for economic growth, safety across our seas and sustainability across the shipping industry.
To read the full media release follow the link below.
Survey - Help to Create Better Transport Connectivity for Jobseekers in the Riverina Murray
Are you an employee, jobseeker or employer?
The WorkTransit Alliance, a formal alliance of Workforce Australia Local Jobs Program regions of Murray Riverina, Capital and Illawarra South Coast is seeking to better understand and remove transport-related barriers to employment.
Image Credit: Mitchell Johnston
Are you an employee, jobseeker or employer?
The WorkTransit Alliance, a formal alliance of Workforce Australia Local Jobs Program regions of Murray Riverina, Capital and Illawarra South Coast is seeking to better understand and remove transport-related barriers to employment.
The Alliance has engaged Sparrowly Group to undertake foundational research to understand and build an evidence base for the transport-related barriers and opportunities in the region,
Sparrowly have developed a short survey to help capture transport-related data and insights, which we’d like you to complete.
The feedback you provide is invaluable and will help the Alliance advocate for better transport access to jobs across the Murray Riverina.
Your feedback is invaluable. To participate select the relevant short five (5) minute survey below:
Employee survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WTA-employee-survey
Employer survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WTA-employer-survey
Job seeker survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WTA-job-seeker-survey
All surveys close Friday 7 November 2025
RDA Riverina Committee Chair position available
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 17 November, 5pm local time.
Successful applicants will commence in their role from January 2026.
Learn more and apply now: https://rda.gov.au/Chair
Australian Farm Waste Portal
A new interactive tool has just launched to help communities, councils, and industry stakeholders better understand and manage agricultural waste across Australia.
Sinitta Leunen
A new interactive tool has just launched to help communities, councils, and industry stakeholders better understand and manage agricultural waste across Australia.
The Australian Farm Waste Portal maps pre-farm gate waste, materials generated before products leave the farm and presents opportunity for investment, innovation, and improved waste strategies.
In 2025, the Agricultural, Fisheries and Forestry sector produced an estimated 16.3 million tones of pre-farm gate waste, including:
16.1 million tonnes of organic waste (mostly reused on-farm)
97,500 tonnes of plastic waste
159,000 tonnes of workshop waste
The portal provides insights across key sectors:
Horticulture
Broadacre
Livestock
Dairy
Forestry and logging
Survey Extended One Week - We Need Your Input!
Business NSW has extended its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey for ONE week, we need your input!.
Credit: Matt Beaver
Business NSW has extended its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey for ONE week, we need your input!.
The survey provides valuable insights into the skills and training needs of employers across NSW.
The 2024 survey found a shortage of skills across NSW, with 77% of employers indicating they were unable to recruit the people they need. Ongoing shortages continue to have an impact, with 38% of employers facing significant challenges as a result.
The data collected from the Riverina Murray will not only go into the full Business NSW Workforce Skills Survey report, but through a collaboration between RDA Riverina and Business NSW Riverina Murray, will also produce a more detailed report, focusing on the issues here in our region.
Your input will help us understand how employers are keeping pace with a dynamic and changing labour market, and inform improvements that help employers meet their skills needs.
Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development Australia - Riverina, said “We are thrilled to be working with Business NSW Riverina Murray to support the Business NSW 2025 Workforce Skills Survey. This collaboration with Business NSW Riverina Murray will give us more data to advocate for the needs of businesses in our region in addressing the workforce shortages.”
Business NSW 2025 Workforce Skills Survey
Business NSW has launched its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey.
Credit: Matt Beaver
Business NSW has launched its 2025 Workforce Skills Survey.
The survey provides valuable insights into the skills and training needs of employers across NSW.
The 2024 survey found a shortage of skills across NSW, with 77% of employers indicating they were unable to recruit the people they need. Ongoing shortages continue to have an impact, with 38% of employers facing significant challenges as a result.
The data collected from the Riverina Murray will not only go into the full Business NSW Workforce Skills Survey report, but through a collaboration between RDA Riverina and Business NSW Riverina Murray, will also produce a more detailed report, focusing on the issues here in our region.
Your input will help us understand how employers are keeping pace with a dynamic and changing labour market, and inform improvements that help employers meet their skills needs.
Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development Australia - Riverina, said “We are thrilled to be working with Business NSW Riverina Murray to support the Business NSW 2025 Workforce Skills Survey. This collaboration with Business NSW Riverina Murray will give us more data to advocate for the needs of businesses in our region in addressing the workforce shortages.”
The welcome experience september update
As we look ahead, TWE remains focused on creating meaningful first impressions and building lasting connections for those who choose to live and work in the Riverina.
New recruits to Murrumbidgee Police in Griffith
The Welcome Experience (TWE) had the privilege of welcoming eight new NSW Police probationary constables to Griffith, presenting them with welcome packs filled with local resources and community gifts to help them settle in and feel supported from day one.
Earlier in the month, TWE was invited to speak at the Beyond the Line event in Temora, where over 60 pre-service teachers and principals gathered to explore the opportunities and challenges of starting a career in regional education. The presentation offered a warm introduction to the Riverina and highlighted the value of community connection for those considering a move to the region.
Our local Welcomers continued to shine, with Mendie representing TWE at Tumut Library’s Open Day, and Alicia Pumpa receiving her welcome pack in Griffith after relocating. The packs—filled with practical items and local experiences—continue to be a highlight for new arrivals, helping them feel valued and informed as they settle in.
TWE also strengthened ties with Corrective Services, supporting partners of essential workers and exploring new ways to collaborate. Conversations with DCJ have opened doors to include career information and resources in future welcome kits, expanding the support we offer to those joining the region.
As we look ahead, TWE remains focused on creating meaningful first impressions and building lasting connections for those who choose to live and work in the Riverina.
Grow Our Own – September 2025 Update
September saw Grow Our Own deepen its regional partnerships and begin planning for 2026.
Students attending a tour at Leeton Hospital, August 2025
September saw Grow Our Own deepen its regional partnerships and begin planning for 2026. Following August’s successful health tours, feedback from Griffith Base Hospital highlighted the value of hands-on student engagement and the importance of clearer career pathway messaging. This insight is shaping the development of Riverina Health Careers Week, a new collaboration with RIEP set for May next year.
GOO also finalised its National Science Week reporting and acknowledged the support of local health partners. Planning is underway for the Term 4 Behind the School Gates event at Murrumbidgee Regional High School, continuing efforts to connect schools with local industry.
In Narrandera, GOO is working with schools and council to reschedule industry tours, ensuring new members are supported. Conversations also progressed around a new pilot program focused on aged care and childcare careers, with GOO, WorkForce Australia and RIEP agreeing to co-develop the initiative for launch in Griffith next year.
Feedback from schools and industry partners continues to affirm the impact of GOO. Career advisors praised the tours for giving students real-world insight into local career pathways, and several students have already taken up work experience and part-time roles as a result. These reflections reinforce the importance of continuing to build meaningful, locally driven career engagement across the Western Riverina.
wagga wagga country change expo
The Country Change Expo was held on Saturday, 13 September 2025, at the Transgrid Discovery Hub, Wagga Wagga, as part of Regional Development Australia Riverina’s strategic initiative to attract new residents to the region.
The Country Change Expo was held on Saturday, 13 September 2025, at the Transgrid Discovery Hub, Wagga Wagga, as part of Regional Development Australia Riverina’s strategic initiative to attract new residents to the region.
The Country Change Expo is a flagship regional initiative designed to promote relocation to the Riverina region. It showcases local employment opportunities, lifestyle benefits, and community services to prospective moves, with a strong emphasis on regional development and population growth. The expo is also a great way to expand the reach of knowledge about the great work being done through The Welcome Experience.
“The Expo is not just about showcasing jobs; it’s about showing people the whole picture - where they could work, where they could live, and how they could belong”
- Rachel Whiting, CEO and Director of Regional Development at RDA Riverina
Key Features of the Wagga Wagga Expo
Exhibitor Engagement: Councils, businesses, and community groups presented stalls to highlight local services, volunteering opportunities, and employment.
Sponsorship: APM Employment were secured as major sponsors of the Wagga Wagga and Griffith Expos, SWS Bank were secured as minor sponsors of the Wagga Wagga Expo.
Town Tours: Guided tours of Wagga Wagga, Temora, and Junee offered immersive experiences of regional living.
Welcome Event: Held at the Riverside Precinct, this evening gathering fostered networking and community connection for new arrivals and those considering a move.
Entertainment & Incentives: Live music, local radio station presence, interactive exhibits, balloons and free coffee vouchers for survey participants encouraged engagement.
Marketing Impact: Over 130 pre-event registrations and 300+ attendees were recorded, supported by targeted digital campaigns, media engagements and toolkits provided to partners, stakeholders and participants.
The next Country Change Expo will take place in Griffith on Saturday, 25 October 2025, at Kooyoo Street Mall. It will mirror the Wagga Wagga format with town tours, a welcome event, and strong community involvement. Alignment with The Welcome Experience will target essential workers, their partners and families, who have relocated or are considering relocating.
Flavourtech Awarded Business of the Year at 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards
Business NSW has announced the winners of the 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards, with Griffith-based company Flavourtech taking out the prestigious title of Business of the Year. The awards ceremony was held at Piccolo Family Farm in Griffith on Friday 19 September.
Image Credit: Giorgio Trovato
Media Release: Business NSW
Business NSW has announced the winners of the 2025 Riverina Murray Regional Business Awards, with Griffith-based company Flavourtech taking out the prestigious title of Business of the Year. The awards ceremony was held at Piccolo Family Farm in Griffith on Friday 19 September.
Flavourtech earned the top honour after winning both the Excellence in International Business and Excellence in Large Business categories. The company was recognised for its innovation, ethical practices, community engagement, and global reputation. Their their commitment to workforce development also received special acknowledgement. This marks Flavourtech’s second time receiving the Business of the Year award, having previously won in 2021.
The awards program featured 20 categories celebrating leadership, sustainability, innovation, diversity and inclusion, and the visitor economy. Winners from the regional awards will go on to represent the Riverina Murray region at the Business NSW State Business Awards, to be held at the ICC in Sydney on 29 October 2025.
Click the button below to read the full media release and explore the complete list of award winners.