RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven's role is to help drive economic growth, innovation and entrepreneurship through facilitating investment in community, industry and the environment.
As representatives of our local community, we will deliver on the Regional Investment Framework in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven, including investment in people, places, services, and industries and local economies.
RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven (RDAIS) Board and staff are neutral brokers across all levels of government, community and business for the growth of the region's economy (including Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven LGAs).
RDAIS is an independent organisation with a Board of local leaders who are active and facilitative across all levels of government and regional stakeholders. We are part of a national network of RDAs, an initiative of the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.
RDAs are critical to the delivery of economic growth and wellbeing, including the successful implementation of the Australian Government’s Regional Investment Framework (RIF). The RIF will guide RDAs, including RDAIS, with a coordinated approach to regional development, underpinned by local engagement.
RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven operates under the RDA Charter developed by the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories. The Charter provides a framework for driving a strong, confident and vibrant region whilst valuing local voices and priorities.
RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven collaborates with regional stakeholders and peak bodies, such as Invest Wollongong, Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation of Councils, Illawarra Business Chamber, Destination Sydney South Surrounds, Destination Wollongong, Property Council, UDIA and the University of Wollongong.