Andrew Leigh

The Regional Development Australia committee for the ACT is looking for community volunteers.

The Hon Simon Crean MP
Federal Minister for Regional Australia, Regional Development
and Local Government

Minister for the Arts Andrew Barr MLA
ACT Deputy Chief Minister, Treasurer,
Minister for Economic Development
Tourism, Sport and Recreation

JOINT MEDIA RELEASE

Friday, 3 February, 2012

CALL FOR COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS TO REPRESENT THE ACT

Regional Australia Minister Simon Crean and Acting Chief Minister of the ACT Andrew Barr today called for community volunteers to represent the Regional Development Australia (RDA) committee in the ACT.

Individuals with community, industry or government experience and knowledge of local challenges are encouraged to submit an expression of interest to represent RDA ACT.

“The RDA committees are more than the eyes and ears for government,” 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.

“We are looking for individuals with vision and drive – people who can use their experience, skills and local regional knowledge to build relationships between all levels of government and regional communities.

“Members of our RDA committees have strong relationships with their communities and bring a deep understanding of local issues.

“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.”

People of all backgrounds are encouraged to submit an expression of interest, which will be considered against the skills and expertise required by the RDA committee.

Previous applicants and existing members whose terms are expiring are also encouraged to submit a new expression of interest.

Mr Barr said the RDA committee plays an important role in advising government on regional development policy.

“I would like to encourage anyone with a strong interest in the future development of the ACT and surrounding region to submit an expression of interest,” Mr Barr said.

“RDA ACT provides an important interface with other surrounding RDAs to support the work of the ACT Government within the broader region."

RDA is an Australian Government initiative which is jointly funded by State and Territory Governments and local governments in some jurisdictions.

For more information on the RDA network, the Expression of Interest Handbook and an application form visit www.rda.gov.au

Additional information on the EoI process can be mailed to applicants, please contact 1800 505 938 (Mon–Fri 9am-5pm AEDST) or email rdaeoi<@>regional.gov.au

Applications for the Australian Capital Territory are encouraged by Friday 24 February 2012.