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Regional Development Australia Wide Bay Burnett

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Regional Development Australia Wide Bay Burnett

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Local people, creating local opportunities. The national RDA Charter sets out the areas of focus for the RDA network.

Regional Development Australia (RDA) is a partnership between the Australian, state and territory and local governments to support the growth and development of Australia’s regions. RDA committees will build partnerships between governments, regional development organisations, local businesses, community groups and key regional stakeholders to provide strategic and targeted responses to economic, environmental and social issues affecting the regions of Australia. RDA is delivered through a national network of 55 committees, with RDA Wide Bay Burnett Inc. covering the following areas:

Gympie
Fraser Coast
Bundaberg
North Burnett
South Burnett
Cherbourg

29/10/2026

As we shift our focus towards implementing the Mary and Burnett Regional Drought Resilience Plans, Regional Development Australia Wide Bay Burnett (RDAWBB) is looking for two Regional Drought Resilience Project Officers to help turn these plans into practical action across Wide Bay Burnett.

Drought is a part of life in regional Australia, but how we prepare for it can make a real difference to how our communities manage challenges, expand their capacity and build foundational resilience.

These roles will work directly with farmers, First Nations organisations, councils, businesses and community groups to identify local priorities, build partnerships and deliver projects that strengthen the region’s ability to prepare for, withstand and recover from drought.

We’re looking for people with proven project management experience, strong communication skills and the ability to work independently while bringing diverse stakeholders together to get things done. Experience in regional, rural or remote communities is essential.

If you have the skills and experience to help build a more drought-resilient region, we’d like to hear from you.

Find out more about the roles and how to apply>>> https://au.seek.com/job/95228416?ref=search-standalone&type=standard&origin=jobTitle =2fbdbbd0be8a49ed84a0b9f95709913cfeb3297b

Please share across your networks!

29/10/2026

Applications are now open for South Burnett Regional Council’s 2027 Regional Youth Council.

If you’re aged 12–24, or know someone who is and lives in the South Burnett or Cherbourg, this is a chance to step forward, raise your hand and have a say in the future of your region. It could be the start of something great.

Youth Council members can help shape local projects and community events, build new skills and learn more about how local government works.

Applications close Friday, 11 December 2026.

Find out more and apply: https://www.southburnett.qld.gov.au/youth-council

29/10/2026

You have until midnight, Sunday 1 November, to help shape the future of drought resilience across Wide Bay Burnett.

We are welcoming Expressions of Interest from local people to join two new Regional Drought Resilience Planning Reference Groups (RDRPRG) and help guide the next phase of both the Mary and the Burnett regional drought plans.

Bring your local knowledge and experience to the table. Help identify what’s needed on the ground, where the gaps are and how we can turn plans into practical action.

The power to shape what happens in our region is in your hands.

Your local knowledge, experience, community connections and care for the land will make a real difference to the future of our region.

Learn more and register your interest: https://www.rdawidebayburnett.org.au/rdrprg

23/10/2026

Through our Regional Drought Resilience Planning (RDRP) Program, we are establishing two community reference groups for the Mary and Burnett.

Through an Expression of Interest process, RDAWBB is seeking local people to join the new Regional Drought Resilience Planning Reference Groups (RDRPRGs) and help shape the next phase of drought resilience across the region.

The RDRP Program is now moving into the implementation phase of the Mary and Burnett Regional Drought Resilience Plans. The RDRPRGs will provide local insight and practical advice to help guide the delivery of key projects identified through community consultation and prioritised within each regional drought plan.

Members will help identify what is happening on the ground, where gaps or barriers exist, and where existing networks, projects and local knowledge can help move priorities forward.

They will also play an important role in connecting people and organisations, promoting relevant work already underway and helping build local capacity to deliver the plans.

People with local knowledge, experience and connections across primary production, small and medium business, First Nations communities, and community and mental health services are encouraged to register their interest.

“While we can't know when the next drought will occur, this work provides a clear, community-informed pathway to strengthen resilience across our landscapes, industries and towns." - RDRP Project Coordinator Tim Sayre

APPLICATIONS CLOSE MIDNIGHT NOVEMBER 1
Learn more and apply here >>> https://www.rdawidebayburnett.org.au/rdrprg

22/10/2026

Strengthening regional leadership across Wide Bay Burnett

Regional Development Australia Wide Bay Burnett (RDAWBB) is pleased to welcome Fraser Coast Regional Council Mayor George Seymour to our Board and congratulate current Board member Michelle Hay on her appointment as Board Secretary.

These appointments strengthen the experience, connections and regional leadership guiding RDAWBB’s work as we put our Strategic Plan 2026–2030 into action.

RDAWBB Chair, Cr Bill Trevor, said:

“We are delighted to have George join us on the RDAWBB Board as we work together, driven by a common purpose and our commitment to Wide Bay Burnett.”

With a shared focus on building regional intelligence, connecting and convening, and creating strong relationships, RDAWBB will continue working with government, industry and communities to support regional opportunities and sustainable growth.

Read full media release at >>> https://www.rdawidebayburnett.org.au/media-center

Discover more about our Board, our work and our Strategic Plan 2026–2030 via our People & Publications page:>>> https://www.rdawidebayburnett.org.au/people-and-publications

George Seymour - Fraser Coast

20/10/2026

The Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service is welcoming Expressions of Interest from individuals with strong local ties to represent their community in a new Bundaberg Hospital Community Reference Group.

Working directly with the project team, members will represent community interests at quarterly meetings and act as a two-way communication link between the project and the wider community, sharing updates and bringing local perspectives and feedback back to the group.

The new Bundaberg Hospital will have a lasting impact on our region. From healthcare and employment to education, transport, local businesses and community wellbeing. The Community Reference Group will provide a forum for community perspectives to be shared, key issues to be discussed, and project information to be exchanged throughout construction.

To learn more and to apply >>> https://www.widebay.health.qld.gov.au/hospitals-and-health-centres/bundaberg-hospital/new-bundaberg-hospital-project

15/10/2026

Regional Queensland is leading the way when it comes to proving that innovation isn’t just for overseas tech companies or our city cousins.

Presented by Regional Business HQ and supported by the Queensland Government, the two-day event brings together the problem solvers, the creators, the thinkers and the dreamers from around regional Queensland. The program includes presentations and an exhibitor expo, plus the Bundy Innovation Challenge, where real industry problems will be workshopped by the people best positioned on the ground to make real change and practical solutions.

Book your tickets now>>> https://www.businesshq.org.au/regional-innovation-showcase/

11/10/2026

A rainfall figure is only part of the story.

For the full picture, you need to talk to the people.

The Regional Drought Resilience Plans for the Burnett and Mary were developed through a partnership between the Rural Economies Centre of Excellence and Regional Development Australia Wide Bay Burnett (RDAWBB), drawing on the conditions, priorities and lived experience of people across the region.

What began several years ago as an academic exercise is now moving into practical work, delivered through partnerships and informed by local knowledge.

RDAWBB is now looking for people to join the Mary and Burnett Regional Drought Resilience Planning Reference Groups (RDRPRG).

We want regional champions, place-based experts and people with lived experience. People who have spent years in the local area and know the land, its people and what drought means on the ground.

That knowledge might come from primary production, business, First Nations communities, community services or mental health. It might simply come from a lifetime of knowing the district and its people.

The RDRGPs will help identify the issues being faced on the ground, the gaps that need attention, and the local strengths, connections and work already underway that can help the region prepare us for drought.

Learn more >>> https://www.rdawidebayburnett.org.au/rdrprg

10/10/2026

Looking for some additional financial support? These grants may help.

VOLUNTEER GRANTS | $1,000–$5,000
Not-for-profit community organisations that rely on volunteers can apply for $1,000 to $5,000 to support their volunteers, purchase essential items or deliver volunteer-run activities.

Find out more about eligibility and how to apply>>> https://www.dss.gov.au/volunteering-initiatives/volunteer-grants

Australian Government Department of Social Services

PRO BONO FOR PURPOSE | $5,000 OR $10,000
Charities and not-for-profits can apply for MediaCast’s Pro Bono for Purpose grant, providing funding and expert media relations support to help get your organisation’s story in front of a wider audience.

Support includes campaign strategy and delivery across radio, TV, print and online media.

Find out more and apply >>> https://www.mediacast.com.au/ProBonoForPurpose

BUILDING DIGITAL SKILLS GRANT | UP TO $20,500
Community organisations can access $3,000–$20,500 to deliver free digital mentoring for Australians aged 50+.

The funding supports programs that help older Australians build digital skills, confidence and connection through the Be Connected program.

Find out more and apply >>> Building digital skills grant | Good Things Foundation https://goodthingsaustralia.org/mentor-resource/building-digital-skills-grant/

POSITIVE AGEING GRANTS | UP TO $50,000
Funding is available for community projects that challenge ageism, promote positive ageing and raise awareness of elder abuse across Queensland.

Two funding streams are available:
• Up to $15,000 for local community projects
• Up to $50,000 for statewide initiatives

Find out more about eligibility and apply >>> https://www.families.qld.gov.au/about-us/our-department/funding-grants-investment/funding-investment-opportunities/positive-ageing-elder-abuse-awareness-grants

Queensland Government

GENERAL FUND CAPACITY BUILDING GRANTS | UP TO $40,000
Queensland charities can apply for up to $40,000 to strengthen their organisation, with the 2027 grant round focusing on building volunteer capacity.

Funding can support volunteer recruitment, training, leadership development, retention and engagement.

Eligible charities must hold DGR Item 1 status.

Find out more and apply >>> https://qcf.org.au/grants/general-fund-grant-making/

09/10/2026

The Queensland Manufacturing AI Uplift Trial Program backs manufacturers that already have a clear AI use case and a way to deploy it. Expressions of interest are open now.

Up to $250,000 in AI services to put AI to work in your Queensland manufacturing business.

Importantly, at least one Flagship Project will be awarded to a regional Queensland manufacturer, ensuring businesses outside Greater Brisbane can benefit from the program.

To learn more and apply >>> https://www.armhub.com.au/qld-ai-uplift

Queensland Government

Address

3/79 Torquay Road
Hervey Bay, QLD
4655

Opening Hours

Monday	8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5pm
Friday	8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

0741242526

Website

http://www.rdawidebayburnett.org.au/

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