Eight new members to RDA Southern Inland were announced by Regional Australia Minister, Simon Crean and NSW Deputy Premier, Andrew Stoner.

Mr Brian Brown was appointed as Deputy Chair and the following individuals have been appointed as committee members:

Mr John Bell, Ms Elke Clevedon, Mr David Guthrey, Mr Ross Hampton, Mr Peter Mullins, Ms Wendy Tuckerman and Ms Sue Whelan.

Mr Crean said the new appointments will ensure RDA Southern Inland continues as a vital connection between all three levels of Government.

“The RDA committees are more than the eyes and ears for Canberra,” Mr Crean said.

“Their input is central to our place-based approach because it will help us better respond to the challenges and opportunities different regions face and enable us to embed regionalism into the way we govern in a way that can’t be unpicked.

“Strong RDA committees are engaging with local communities to maximise economic growth, flexibility, diversity and resilience.

“Committee members are local leaders with diverse skills and experience, who understand the challenges, opportunities and priorities in their communities.

“They volunteer their time and energy and work tirelessly for their regions, and we are committed to ensuring they have the support and resources to do their job well.”

Mr Stoner said the appointment of the new committee members to RDA Southern Inland will be instrumental to identifying strengths and opportunities in each region and providing the national policies and programs that will drive local solutions.

“The NSW RDA network helps drive policy for regional NSW, and is vital for setting the agenda on regional issues,” Mr Stoner said.

“That is why it is important that each committee is made up of highly qualified people with a deep understanding of local issues, and these appointments reflect that.”

RDA is a partnership between Australian, State, Territory and Local Governments to strengthen regional communities.

RDA consists of a national network of 55 committees which are made up of leaders who work with all levels of government, business and community groups to support the development of their regions.

RDA Southern Inland is based in Queanbeyan comprising of committee members from across the region.

For more information on the work being undertaken by RDA Southern Inland visit www.rdasi.org.au

For more information and the latest news from the national RDA network visit www.rda.gov.au