RDSA 2023 Annual Summit in Gawler attracts 160 leaders

The Terrace Function Centre at the Gawler Racecourse played host to an influential gathering of 160 government officials, business leaders, industry representatives, and community advocates on Friday, September 22nd, for the much-anticipated Regional Development South Australia (RDSA) 2023 Annual Summit. With a focus on “Population & Prosperity,” the summit explored strategies to harness the forward investment pipeline and sustainably grow South Australia’s regional population.

The RDSA Annual Summit brought together participants from all levels of government with business and community to engage in dynamic discussions divided into three enlightening sessions.

Session 1: Laying the Groundwork for Population Growth in Regional South Australia

The day commenced with insightful discussions on laying the groundwork for regional population growth. We were welcomed to Country by Kaurna representative Garth Agius. We then had welcome addresses by Mayor Karen Redman from Town of Gawler, The Hon. Kristy McBain MP – Minister for Regional Development, Local Government & Territories, Hon Rob Kerin – Executive Chair of RDSA and Hon. Clare Scriven MLC – Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Minister for Forest Industries.

Keynote Speaker Geoff Brailey from McCrindle, a demographer and trends analyst, shared valuable insights into population projections for regional South Australia, setting the stage for the day’s deliberations. Highlighting the importance of digital infrastructure for population growth, Naomi Read and Ric Matto from NBN Co. explored network advancements. Emily Perry of RAA emphasized the need for supporting population growth, and Dr. Tim Mahlberg from innovation experts Stone & Chalk discussed the potential of innovation precincts.

Clare Scriven MLC presents at the RDSA Summit 2023

Clare Scriven MLC, Minister for Primary Industries, Regional Development, Forestry, presents at the RDSA Summit 2023

Session 2: Focus on Place-Based Growth & Our Provincial Cities

Session two turned the spotlight on place-based growth and provincial cities. Sarah Nattey from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts shed light on the new Commonwealth Regional Investment Framework. Clinton Jury, CEO of Local Government Association (SA), discussed how increasing regional population can enhance local government viability, while Dubbo Mayor Mathew Dickerson shared the huge success of their city’s migration marketing campaign. A lively panel discussion delved into the capacity of local government to deliver population growth.

Clinton Jury – CEO Local Government Association (SA), Kristen Manson – General Manager Community Development, Rural City of Murray Bridge, Andrew Stuart – Mount Barker District Council, Chief Executive Officer, Mayor Mathew Dickerson – Mayor, Dubbo Regional Council, Chair – Regional Cities NSW, Secretary – Regional Capitals of Australia.

Session 3: Focus on Complex Problems – Housing, Workforce, Migration & Planning

The final session delved deep into complex issues of housing, workforce, migration, and planning. Liz Ritchie, CEO of the Regional Australia Institute, outlined the “Regional Ambition 2023” framework, and Alison Lloydd-Wright from the Department of Premier & Cabinet explored the impact of regional population growth and migration on South Australia’s future. A panel discussion examined South Australia’s readiness for regional population growth, featuring key stakeholders.

Throughout the day, the discussions were framed by the overarching goal of exploring what’s possible when all barriers to population growth in Regional South Australia are removed.

Minister Kristy McBain MP – Minister for Regional Development, Local Government & Territories

A great showcase for our region

Regional Development Australia Adelaide CEO Kelly-Anne Saffin expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating, “With nearly 3500 people who stayed in Regional SA during Covid, and a genuine sense of momentum, it was absolutely fantastic to share with thought leaders how we do focus on the liveability in regional SA and continue to sustainably grow our population.”

The RDSA 2023 Annual Summit was not just a platform for dialogue; it was a commitment to the development and prosperity of South Australia’s regional communities. The high-level engagement and collaboration showcased the dedication of diverse stakeholders in building a brighter future for Regional South Australia. It also positioned our region as a place where important state-wide conversations are conducted.

The event was co-organised by Regional Development Australia Adelaide and Regional Development Australia Barossa Gawler Light Adelaide Plains. The event was hailed by journalist and emcee Mike Smithson from Channel 7 as one of the “best organised conference events I’ve ever attended, and I’ve attended a few!”