Advocacy


RDA Illawarra is an independent organisation.  We are neutral brokers who advocate across all levels of government for the growth of the Illawarra's economy.

We take a long-term perspective and advocate strategically for the future greater good of the Illawarra region.  We value our people, culture and sustainable development.

We advocate either directly, when commercial or other sensitivities are involved, or publicly through submissions and direct advocacy.

Submissions are made on most matters of economic significance to the Illawarra region.  Our submissions are listed below.


NSW & ACT Prospectus

NSW & ACT Regional Development Australia (RDA) collaboratively developed a Prospectus working alongside RDA's across the state. This document highlights the economic, social, and environmental strengths and opportunities of the regions through the lens of the RDA network across NSW & ACT. A Network that is truly embedded in all parts of their communities.

The Prospectus will be updated annually, providing an evolving spotlight on the current economic strengths and opportunities of the regions and their future facing priorities. 

Picton Road Upgrade Submission

Picton Road Upgrade Submission

RDA Illawarra’s September 2021 submission outlines that Picton Road should be upgraded to a four lane, divided carriageway along its entire length from the M1 Princes Motorway (Mount Ousley Road) in the east to the M31 Hume Motorway (near Wilton). This is based on the need for better connectivity and safety as well as the deliverable economic benefits compared to the cost of further delay.

See our submission to Transport for NSW on the proposed Picton Road upgrades here.

Illawarra-Shoalhaven City Deal

We are proud to announce that the Illawarra-Shoalhaven City Deal Prospectus was launched in October 2020 and is available here.

The Illawarra-Shoalhaven City Deal will deliver transformative change and 12,550 jobs to the regions.  Further information on the types of jobs, including over 2,000 for the Visitor Economy and the breakdown of high value-add jobs is provided in the briefing document here.

The City Deal Prospectus is the culmination of several years of work with our partners in a deeply collaborative way, led by RDA Illawarra.  This Collaborative group includes representatives from Wollongong City Council, Shellharbour City Council, Kiama Municipal Council and Shoalhaven City Council, Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation of Councils, University of Wollongong, SMART Infrastructure Facility, RDA Far South Coast and the Peak Bodies of the Property Council, Illawarra Business Chamber and UDIA. 

The transformative range of proposed projects, when fully funded, will deliver a connected, diverse and resilient economy.  Not only will the Illawarra-Shoalhaven benefit, but this inter-regional proposal enables improved liveability and growth in South-Western Sydney, including Wollondilly and Campbelltown.

RDA Illawarra believes that an Illawarra-Shoalhaven City Deal could be a game-changer which enables our ability to work across all three levels of government and unlock economic potential.

For further information, contact Debra Murphy at admin@rdaillawarra.com.au

Listing Categories

Get in touch with RDA Illawarra