|
The Australian and New South Wales Governments have today announced the new members of the 14 Regional Development Australia (RDA) NSW committees. The new members will join the Chairs and Deputy Chairs in forming the committees for the new regional development organisation. A full list of appointments is available at www.rda.gov.au. Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Maxine McKew, and NSW Minister for Regional Development, Phil Costa, congratulated the appointees. "I look forward to working with the RDA NSW committee members on regional development issues that are close to their communities," Ms McKew said. "RDA NSW will be a first point of contact for regional communities across all levels of government and will promote regional initiatives and partnerships. "The Rudd Labor Government is listening to regional communities and responding to local needs," Ms McKew said. "We have moved to cushion the impact of the global economic recession through our Economic Stimulus Plan, which now includes more than $1 billion for the Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program. "This investment is being delivered where it matters most - in every local government area." Mr Costa said the establishment of RDA NSW and today's appointments mark a new beginning for regional advocacy and on-the-ground development in regional communities. "The RDA committees will integrate the work of all levels of government and act as local champions to improve regional economies and amenity." "One of their important tasks will be to promote business investment opportunities that assist local jobs creation. Mr Costa said outstanding members of the community had been selected for these important roles - individuals with strong grass-roots views about their regions who understand the economic challenges and opportunities within their local community. "The committees will provide strong input into the implementation of the Regional Business Growth Plans in concert with the NSW Government. "I congratulate the new committee members and look forward to working closely with all levels of government to maximise economic opportunities and job creation in NSW." Both Ms McKew and Mr Costa thanked the previous members of the Area Consultative Committees and the Regional Development Boards for their work. "I urge all the new RDA committee members to build on the work of their predecessors and provide a strong voice for their regions," Ms McKew said. The Minister and the Parliamentary Secretary also thanked all applicants for the RDA committee positions, which were filled through a public call for expressions of interest, noting that there had been a high level of interest. For more information and up to date news on RDA visit www.rda.gov.au, www.rdcouncil.gov.au and www.business.nsw.gov.au.
Media Contacts
|
Matt Pulford (
McKew's Office ) |
0434 655 781
|
|
Clare March (
Costa's Office ) |
0403 937 849
|
| 