Modernising the Regional Development Act 2004

The Act was introduced in 2004 to provide a framework that supports economic development and employment growth in regional NSW.

Taken from overhead, the camera looks down on six seven multistorey silver silos. The siloes on the right cast shadows over the concrete they're sitting on. There is a truck parked next to the one of the silos on the left.

The Regional Development Act includes provisions on regional development objectives, circumstances under which grants of financial assistance may be made, the establishment and operation of the Regional Development Trust Fund and the appointment of the Regional Development Advisory Council.

The continued growth of regional NSW and its importance to the future of NSW provides an opportunity to review and modernise the Act, including how investment through the Trust and the oversight of the Advisory Council can best support communities, industries and economic growth in regional NSW. 

As part of the review, the NSW Government undertook extensive consultation with local government, industry, business and community leaders and asked for community feedback on how it can improve the Act to meet the needs of regional communities.

The Government is now considering feedback received during the consultation process and recommendations provided by the Advisory Council on potential changes to the Act.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Government reviewing the Regional Development Act 2004?

Since the Act was first introduced nearly 20 years ago, rural and regional communities have changed significantly. Key changes include:

  • relocation of families and young people from metropolitan centres such as Sydney and Melbourne to regional centres including Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Tamworth and Wagga Wagga 
  • continued growth in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy
  • challenges in ensuring essential services like health and education keep pace with community demands and expectations. 

Updating the Act will create a sound legislative foundation for strategic investment and help the NSW Government respond to the needs of regional NSW communities into the future.

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