A celebration of collaboration, commitment and community was on full display last night at the NSW Parliament House, where Regional Development Australia (RDA) NSW & ACT hosted its annual Friends of Regional NSW event.
Emceed by Anna Guillan AM, Chair of the RDA NSW & ACT Committee, and featuring a keynote address from The Hon Tara Moriarty MLC, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW and Minister for Western NSW, the evening brought together a powerful cross-section of regional leaders, government decision-makers, and passionate advocates for the future of our state.
The event drew an impressive guest list, including several NSW Government Ministers, Members of Parliament, the RDA NSW & ACT Chairs and CEOs, senior departmental representatives, and regional stakeholders from across sectors – united by a common goal: to drive positive outcomes for regional communities.
“This evening brings together people who share a passion for regional New South Wales – its communities, opportunities, and the extraordinary potential waiting to be unlocked. Tonight is not about data or statistics. It’s about strengthening the partnerships that will help turn that potential into reality.” – Anna Guillan AM, Chair of the RDA NSW & ACT Committee
Anna Guillan AM and The Hon Tara Moriarty MLC
As the peak collective voice for regional RDAs, RDA NSW & ACT plays a critical role in shaping and supporting sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous regional development. The network works hand-in-hand with local businesses, councils, state and federal governments, and community groups to unlock economic potential, strengthen local infrastructure, foster workforce development, and attract investment across urban and rural NSW.
Through strategic initiatives and local expertise, each of the 13 RDA regions acts as a trusted connector between policy and place — ensuring that the diverse needs, strengths and aspirations of regional communities are not just heard, but actioned.
“The NSW Government is deeply committed to ensuring regional communities get their fair share of resources – not based on politics, but on merit and community need. RDA plays a critical role in this, and we value your insights, your partnership, and your dedication to delivering for your regions.” – The Hon Tara Moriarty MLC, Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Regional NSW and Minister for Western NSW
Dianna Somerville, Chair RDA Riverina; Madeleine Lawler, CEO and Director RDA Mid North Coast; Lauren Douglass, CEO Australian Regional Tourism
The Friends of Regional NSW event offered more than just a networking opportunity. It was a moment to recognise the impact of partnerships between government and regions — and the critical importance of place-based policy, data-informed decision-making, and lived experience in shaping the future of NSW.
With engaging discussions, renewed connections, and a shared enthusiasm for what lies ahead, the event reaffirmed what RDA NSW & ACT has long championed: when government, community and industry collaborate, regional NSW thrives.
RDA NSW & ACT Chairs & CEOs
Images: Camera Creations.
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