About Regional Development Australia Illawarra Shoalhaven
RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven connects government, industry and community to identify opportunities, overcome challenges and unlock the full potential of our region.
As part of a federally funded national network, we bridge local priorities with federal policy, helping to shape smarter decisions and secure the opportunities our region needs and deserves.Â
Through our role as connectors, collaborators and advisors, we turn strategic thinking into real progress.
We make
Business thrive.Â
Through backing local enterprise and attracting investment, we champion sustainable growth grounded in our region’s unique strengths.
Champions that inspire.
Through workforce and leadership development, we invest in local talent so our region can grow, adapt and lead.
Connections that count.
From the Illawarra and Shoalhaven to Jervis Bay Territory and beyond, we elevate local voices and create lasting impact.
Our Region
As a dynamic area with a growing community and nationally significant assets, the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Jervis Bay Territory is a region of opportunity.
The unique combination of the mountains, the bush and the sea sweeps across a total land area of 5,656 square kilometres. Our region includes four local government areas – Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven – as well as the Jervis Bay Territory.
Recognised for its contribution to manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and education the region has a GRP of $33 Billion and represents the third largest economy in NSW.Â
Our environment is rich with important natural assets, including over 100 stunning beaches, over 10 national parks and protected areas, 60 threatened plant species and over 100 threatened animal species.
Built on a long legacy of industry, the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Jervis Bay Territory area continues to be a place of innovation, growth and diversity. Today, more than 427,300 people call our region home, and this number is expected to grow to 463,150 by 2036.
Acknowledgement of Country
RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven acknowledges and respects the enduring connection of Dharawal and Yuin peoples to Country, culture and community.
We are committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas.
We value their rich contribution to our region, and work with all the local communities to weave our past with our future.
Our Priorities
We are focused on driving transformative change and creating a thriving future for the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Jervis Bay Territory.
To achieve this, we’re concentrating our efforts on five key priorities that reflect the diverse needs and current opportunities within the region.
These priorities shape our projects and initiatives, ensuring we’re focused on creating positive change and sustainable growth.
RDA IS
Driving strategic investment
We advocate for investment in priority infrastructure to support regional ambitions.
Embracing economic opportunity
We work with local enterprises to strengthen regional competitiveness and industry readiness.
Building an inclusive and equitable region
We advocate for social and economic inclusion and access to opportunity to ensure more equitable outcomes.
Supporting aboriginal-led priorities
We take a listening first approach to engagement with Aboriginal peoples and communities.
Building regional credibility and influence
We facilitate two-way engagement between the Federal Government and regional stakeholders to align national priority setting with local opportunity.
Projects and Programs
State of the Workforce
Illawarra Shoalhaven Food Futures Taskforce
Coming Soon: Connecting the Region
State of the Workforce
Our State of the Workforce initiative calls for urgent and practical action to close the regional workforce gaps that inhibit local economic prosperity.
This project includes a dedicated regional report which has been informed directly by local industry engagement, as well as a live dashboard that highlights critical and up-to-date data.
These resources provide the information needed to understand and solve our most pressing workforce gaps and leverage our current strengths and opportunities.
Download the report
What’s New
Our Region
Get in touch
Your voice matters in shaping the future of where we live and work.
If you have suggestions, insights or questions, get in touch through the form.