Regional Development Australia Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation
working to support sustainable economic growth, stronger communities and a more liveable region.
We work alongside local councils, businesses, communities and all levels of government to help identify regional priorities, unlock opportunities and support the investment, infrastructure, skills and services our region needs to grow well.
Our role is practical, connected and regionally focused: we bring people, evidence and ideas together to help shape a stronger future
for Barossa, Gawler, Light and Adelaide Plains.
What we do
We support regional growth by helping businesses, communities, councils and government partners understand local needs,
respond to change and make the most of emerging opportunities.
Business support and guidance
We help businesses access practical support, information, programs and connections that can strengthen capability, improve decision-making and support sustainable growth.
Investment and regional development
We work to attract, support and advocate for investment that strengthens the regional economy, creates jobs and improves long-term liveability.
Regional intelligence and advocacy
We provide evidence-based insights, regional data and local knowledge to support planning, decision-making and policy development.
Collaboration and partnerships
We bring people together across sectors, councils, industries and communities to progress shared priorities and strengthen regional outcomes.
Skills, workforce and leadership
We support initiatives that build workforce capability, strengthen regional leadership and connect people with opportunities to learn, work and contribute locally.
Regional context
Our region spans the peri-urban areas of Barossa, Gawler, Light and Adelaide Plains, one of South Australia’s key high-growth areas.
It is a region of established strengths and emerging opportunities, with major industries including agribusiness, wine, food, broader agriculture, tourism, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure development, care, education and training. As of 2025, RDA BGLAP represents:
– more than $4 billion in Gross Regional Product to South Australia
– more than 6,200 regional businesses
– four diverse council areas across Barossa, Gawler, Light and Adelaide Plains
– a growing population, workforce and investment base
Our strategic focus
Our work is guided by the priorities identified in our FY27–29 Strategic Plan, with a focus on supporting sustainable growth, long-term liveability and a stronger regional economy.
We work with partners to help align planning, investment and action around the foundations our region needs to grow well: reliable water, strong businesses and communities, and future-ready infrastructure. Together, these priorities focus on driving growth, productivity and long-term liveability through coordinated planning, investment and partnerships.
Water Security & Climate
Supporting climate-resilient, integrated water systems that can keep pace with population, housing and employment growth, while sustaining business productivity, agricultural capacity and community liveability.
This includes a focus on water security for growth and housing, drought preparedness, priority industries and coordinated investment in water infrastructure.
Business & Community
Strengthening the conditions that allow people to live locally, work locally, invest locally and build long-term futures in the region.
This includes a focus on workforce attraction and skills alignment, housing availability and affordability, liveability and inclusion, and building the capability and sustainability of regional businesses and priority sectors.
Infrastructure
Supporting coordinated, timely and fit-for-purpose infrastructure that enables regional growth, productivity, investment and long-term development.
This includes civic, social and digital infrastructure, employment lands, digital connectivity, infrastructure sequencing and investment readiness.
Our funding and commitment
RDA BGLAP operates through a partnership between the Australian Government, the South Australian Government and our local governments of the Town of Gawler, Adelaide Plains Council, The Barossa Council and Light Regional Council.
This collaborative funding model ensures we can effectively deliver economic development services within our specific region. This commits us to building a strong, connected Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains region that shapes economic growth and well-being, is resilient and responsive to economic changes is inclusive, vibrant and diverse, and provides opportunities for all community members to engage and thrive.
B2B Support Program
Get connected with trusted local experts so you can make smarter decisions and build a stronger business.
Gain clarity, identify direction and build momentum.
Business Fundamentals Program
Maximise operational performance, plan strategically or tidy up your general business practices.
Work at depth with an experienced advisor and start seeing impact.
Grants & Funding opportunities
Stay up to date with grants and funding programs that may help your business.
Explore our directory, tips and FAQ to help you find and apply for funding to suit your needs.