Regional Development Australia - Darling Downs and South West

Regional Development Australia - Darling Downs and South West Supporting the growth of communities.

RDA, in consultation with the community, business, non-profits and all levels of government, articulates local priorities, identifies and aligns resources, engages stakeholders and promotes solutions.

02/09/2026

๐Ÿš€ Innovate with nbnยฎ is BACK!

๐—ฅ๐—ฒ๐—ด๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ฎ๐—น ๐—ฏ๐˜‚๐˜€๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ฒ๐˜€๐˜€๐—ฒ๐˜€ ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—ฒ ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—ฏ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ธ๐—ฏ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ฒ ๐—ผ๐—ณ ๐—”๐˜‚๐˜€๐˜๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฎ'๐˜€ ๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ผ๐—บ๐˜† ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ฑ ๐—ฐ๐—ผ๐—บ๐—บ๐˜‚๐—ป๐—ถ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐˜€. They drive innovation, create local jobs, and deliver resourceful solutions suited to life in regional Australia.

That's why weโ€™re ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐—ฑ ๐˜๐—ผ ๐—ฝ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐˜๐—ป๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐˜„๐—ถ๐˜๐—ต NBN Australia ๐˜๐—ผ ๐˜€๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜ ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—œ๐—ป๐—ป๐—ผ๐˜ƒ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ ๐˜„๐—ถ๐˜๐—ต ๐—ป๐—ฏ๐—ปยฎ ๐—š๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐˜๐˜€ ๐—ฃ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ด๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—บ, now in its seventh year.

With $๐Ÿญ๐Ÿฎ๐Ÿฑ,๐Ÿฌ๐Ÿฌ๐Ÿฌ ๐—ถ๐—ป ๐—ด๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐˜๐˜€ ๐—ฎ๐˜ƒ๐—ฎ๐—ถ๐—น๐—ฎ๐—ฏ๐—น๐—ฒ ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐˜€๐˜€ ๐˜€๐—ฒ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ๐—ป ๐—ฐ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ด๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐˜€, this program celebrates the ingenuity of regional and remote businesses using digital tools to make a difference.๐Ÿ’ก

๐Ÿ—‚๏ธ The categories: AgTech and Environment, Arts, Culture & Tourism, Education, First Nations Business, Health and Wellbeing, Innovation for Productivity (new for 2026), and Women in Regional Business.

๐Ÿ† Category winners take home $15,000, with one overall Champion receiving an additional $20,000.

Past winners have shown just how far a good idea can go - from a ๐—ง๐—ฎ๐˜€๐—บ๐—ฎ๐—ป๐—ถ๐—ฎ๐—ป ๐—น๐—ถ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐˜† ๐—ฝ๐—ฟ๐—ผ๐—ด๐—ฟ๐—ฎ๐—บ ๐˜€๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐—ถ๐˜€๐—ผ๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฑ ๐—ณ๐—ฎ๐—ฟ๐—บ๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐—ณ๐—ฎ๐—บ๐—ถ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐˜€, to a ๐—™๐—ถ๐—ฟ๐˜€๐˜ ๐—ก๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜€ ๐˜ƒ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐—ถ๐—ณ๐—ถ๐—ฐ๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป ๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ณ๐—ผ๐—ฟ๐—บ ๐—ฐ๐—ผ๐—ป๐—ป๐—ฒ๐—ฐ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐˜€๐˜‚๐—ฝ๐—ฝ๐—น๐—ถ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ๐˜€ ๐—ป๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ถ๐—ผ๐—ป๐˜„๐—ถ๐—ฑ๐—ฒ, and a ๐—บ๐—ผ๐—ฏ๐—ถ๐—น๐—ฒ ๐˜€๐˜„๐—ถ๐—บ ๐˜€๐—ฐ๐—ต๐—ผ๐—ผ๐—น ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ต๐—ถ๐—ป๐—ด ๐˜„๐—ฎ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—ฟ ๐˜€๐—ฎ๐—ณ๐—ฒ๐˜๐˜† ๐—ถ๐—ป ๐˜๐—ต๐—ฒ ๐—ผ๐˜‚๐˜๐—ฏ๐—ฎ๐—ฐ๐—ธ. Each one using the nbnยฎ network to reach communities that would otherwise miss out.

โœ… To apply, businesses need to be connected to the nbn network, based in regional Australia, and hold an ABN.
๐Ÿ“… Applications open ๐Ÿญ ๐—ฆ๐—ฒ๐—ฝ๐˜๐—ฒ๐—บ๐—ฏ๐—ฒ๐—ฟ.

Find out more here: https://www.nbnco.com.au/campaigns/innovate-with-nbn-grants-program


01/09/2026

Fuel is critical to every business.

As we navigate the โ€˜new normalโ€™ for fuel supply and pricing, understanding what lies ahead is essential for business planning, operational resilience and long-term growth.

Join us at the Roma Enterprise Evening where we'll explore fuel security and hear directly from Drew Morland, CEO of IOR, as he shares a timely update on Australia's fuel security landscape, current market conditions and what businesses can expect in the short and medium term.

The evening will also feature an expert panel exploring the future of regional manufacturing and AgTech, including innovation, investment opportunities and workforce development across regional Australia.

๐Ÿ“… Thursday, 3 September 2026
๐Ÿ“ The Big Rig, Roma
โฐ 5:30pm - 8:30pm

If fuel impacts your business, these are insights you cannot afford to miss.

๐ŸŽŸ๏ธ Tickets are limited. Secure yours today here https://tsbe.wavecrm.com.au/event/01KYGKND27PK7TE1ES5447DK6S

BUILDING QUEENSLAND'S FUTURE Queenslanders invited to shape future planning framework   Deputy Premier, Minister for Sta...
01/09/2026

BUILDING QUEENSLAND'S FUTURE
Queenslanders invited to shape future planning framework

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning and Minister for Industrial Relations
The Honourable Jarrod Bleijie

โ€ข The Crisafulli Government has launched public consultation on its draft State Planning Policy to help ease Laborโ€™s Housing Crisis.
โ€ข Refreshed planning framework will unlock land and deliver consistency and clarity, including natural hazard management and flood mapping.
โ€ข Queenslandโ€™s State Planning Policy hasnโ€™t been updated since the start of Laborโ€™s decade of decline.

The Crisafulli Government will deliver a place to call home for more Queenslanders through a refreshed planning framework that will unlock land and remove barriers as well as provide certainty and a commonsense approach to development, including management and assessment of natural hazards.

The Crisafulli Government is inviting Queenslanders to have their say on a new draft State Planning Policy โ€“ an updated blueprint to deliver a place to call home for more Queenslanders and ensure landholder rights are protected.

The State Planning Policy is a key part of Queensland's planning framework, setting out the Crisafulli Government's priorities in land use planning and development and guiding the preparation and application of local planning instruments across the state.

Queenslandโ€™s State Planning Policy hasnโ€™t been updated since 2017 โ€“ around the start of Laborโ€™s decade of decline - and the Crisafulli Government is updating it to ensure it remains fit for purpose and responds to Queensland's future needs.

A revised framework is proposed to support housing delivery, economic growth and infrastructure investment, while improving the clarity, usability, and efficiency of the planning system.

Additionally, the Crisafulli Government is also consulting on ways to better manage and assess natural hazards in Queenslandโ€™s planning framework, applying a risk-based, commonsense approach to development, and not one that avoids it altogether.

The current flood mapping system has a range of different technical inputs, without any statewide consistency meaning that the same catchment can have different flood maps in one of Australiaโ€™s most disaster-prone states. This leads to significant confusion and inconsistency, impacting the property rights of landholders and insurance premiums as well.

A separate discussion paper has been released and communities now have an opportunity to be have their say.

The draft State Planning Policy proposes other key changes, including:

โ€ข Six strategic aspirations to guide planning outcomes and help balance competing state interests - build housing and strong communities, drive connected and productive regions, deliver responsive infrastructure, promote efficient land use, support existing economic drivers, attract emerging industries.
โ€ข A revised structure designed to make the State Planning Policy easier to navigate, understand and apply.
โ€ข A new Environment, Heritage and Efficient Growth state interest.
โ€ข Updated and streamlined state interests, including new policies and revised interests.
โ€ข Consultation is open until 26 October 2026, with feedback welcomed from local government, industry, community organisations and interested Queenslanders.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said feedback from councils, industry, community organisations and Queenslanders would help shape the future direction of planning across the state.

"Queensland is growing rapidly, and our planning framework needs to support the homes, infrastructure and economic opportunities to help ease Laborโ€™s Housing Crisis,โ€ Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

"A stronger, more commonsense planning framework will help support housing delivery while ensuring growth is well planned and backed by the infrastructure communities rely on.

โ€œWe also know the stateโ€™s current flood mapping methodology and guidance is causing more confusion than clarity, and itโ€™s affecting everything from peopleโ€™s property rights to insurance premiums.

"This draft State Planning Policy sets out a long-term vision for how Queensland grows, while balancing housing delivery, economic development, environmental outcomes and infrastructure planning.

"As the first comprehensive review of the State Planning Policy after a decade of decline under Labor, the Crisafulli Government is delivering the fresh start we promised Queenslanders, and weโ€™re inviting them to have their say on the proposed changes.โ€

Local Government Association of Queensland chief executive officer Alison Smith said the LGAQ and Queensland councils welcome the opportunity to engage with the State Government on the draft State Planning Policy.

โ€œItโ€™s important to get the balance right and local government supports an effective planning system guided by appropriate legislation and balanced social, environmental, cultural and economic interests,โ€ Ms Smith said.

โ€œCouncils have also been advocating for greater support in natural hazard planning and mapping, so we look forward to the State working with councils as this review progresses.โ€

Property Council Queensland Executive Director Jess Caire said the draft policy was a welcomed opportunity to provide greater clarity and consistency across Queenslandโ€™s planning framework.

โ€œWe strongly welcome the retention of natural hazards as a State interest, following consistent industry feedback on the need for clearer and more practical guidance across Queenslandโ€™s framework,โ€ Ms Caire said.

โ€œQueenslandโ€™s planning system must support housing delivery, economic growth and infrastructure investment, while giving the industry the certainty needed to plan for the future.โ€

Urban Development Institute of Australia Queensland CEO Kirsty Chessher-Brown said

โ€œCertainty and consistency are paramount when embarking on a new project,โ€ Ms Chessher-Brown said.

โ€œThe review of the State Planning Policy and approach to natural hazard management provides an opportunity to ensure these key aspects of the planning framework are fit for purpose, providing clarity and consistency to invest in the delivery of homes and jobs for Queenslanders.โ€

To view the plan and provide feedback, visit

The State Planning Policy is a key part of Queensland's planning framework. It sets out the state's interests in land use planning and development and guides the preparation and application of local planning instruments across Queensland. The current State Planning Policy was released in 2017.

01/09/2026

New Gambling Community Benefit Fund round opens

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity
The Honourable Deb Frecklington

โ€ข The Crisafulli Government has opened a new round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, with not-for-profit community groups across Queensland encouraged to apply.
โ€ข Grants of up to $35,000 are available to help fund a range of projects including purchasing equipment and upgrading facilities.
โ€ข A new online grants system has launched to coincide with the opening of the new round, making it easier than ever for organisations to apply.

The Crisafulli Government has opened the latest round of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, with not-for-profit groups across Queensland encouraged to apply through a new streamlined grants portal.

Each year, the Gambling Community Benefit Fund delivers more than $60 million to support community initiatives, making it Queenslandโ€™s largest one-off community grants program.

Round 127 offers grants of up to $35,000 each, to help fund initiatives and projects such as:

โ€ข Purchasing sporting equipment
โ€ข Upgrading community facilities
โ€ข Providing first aid training
โ€ข Holding local events
โ€ข Installing solar systems and shade sails.

To make it easier for not-for-profit organisations to apply for funding, the Crisafulli Government has launched a new online application portal, which is now live.

The new system provides clearer guidance and a more streamlined application process, making it easier for organisations to understand requirements, track and submit their applications.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity Deb Frecklington said local organisations were at the heart of Queensland communities and the latest round of grants would help them continue their important work.

โ€œItโ€™s been fantastic to see firsthand the huge difference this funding has made for successful recipients,โ€ the Attorney-General said.

โ€œThat includes the Goondiwindi Pony Club, which was awarded a $16,720 GCBF grant to build a footpath around the clubhouse, creating a cleaner, safer and more accessible space for members, visitors and the community.

โ€œMade possible through the GCBF, the investment will reduce maintenance and cleaning requirements for volunteers and enhance accessibility and safety for everyone who uses the facilities.

โ€œThese grants do so much for our communities, and Iโ€™m confident the new and improved online portal will help support community organisations through the application process."

Applications for Round 127 close 28 September with successful recipients announced in December.

More information about the GCBF program is available at: https://www.justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives/community-grants.

We have a new online grants system. You can now reset your password to sign in or register to apply for Gambling Community Benefit Fund grant funding.

31/08/2026

3 WEEKS TO GO! | BUSINESS@DUSK | September 2026 | Toowoomba Hospital Foundation

The Toowoomba Hospital Foundation is proud to host this monthโ€™s Business@Dusk event. The Foundation has spent more than 30 years connecting the generosity of our community with the needs of local healthcare, and today, that work extends beyond fundraising.
Through a growing portfolio of community-facing initiatives, we're creating places and opportunities that bring people together while supporting health and wellbeing across the Darling Downs.

Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the Foundation and the many ways we contribute to our region. From supporting vital healthcare services and equipment, to creating meaningful community connections through the Museum of Health and Wellbean Co, you'll discover how our work continues to evolve in response to community needs.

Located on the historic grounds of the Baillie Henderson Hospital campus, the Museum of Health is one example of this vision in action, preserving and sharing the stories that shaped healthcare in our region while creating new opportunities for connection, learning and collaboration.

This event is an opportunity to learn more about the Foundation, explore potential partnership opportunities, and discover how local businesses and community organisations can engage with our work, all while exploring our newest venture, the Museum of Health.
Whether you're interested in collaboration, venue hire, catering, community impact, or simply curious about what we do, we look forward to welcoming you.

EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Wednesday 16 September 2026
Time: 5:30pm โ€“ 7:30pm
Address: The Museum of Health, 1 Hogg Street, Cranley QLD 4350
Tickets: $40 Members | $90 Non-Members
Purchase Here: https://twc.wavecrm.com.au/event/01M0BXZ5MMSSS7SD7B8ZV6WN5B

Business@Dusk is brought to you in partnership with our Foundation Partner, University of Southern Queensland - Australia

31/08/2026

BE PART OF THE 2026 TOOWOOMBA JOBS EXPO โœ…

Stallholder registrations are moving quickly for October's Toowoomba Jobs Expo!

One of Queenslandโ€™s major regional employment events, the expo connects employers and training providers with job seekers, people entering the workforce for the first time and those considering their next career move.

Exhibitors can:
โœ… Promote current and upcoming vacancies
โœ… Meet potential employees face to face
โœ… Highlight career pathways across their industry

๐Ÿ“… Thursday 15 October | ๐Ÿ•˜ 9am - 3pm
๐Ÿ“ The Goods Shed, Toowoomba

Register soon to secure your stallholder spot ๐Ÿ‘‰ https://champ.ly/f705Coe1

Workforce Australia Local Jobs is proud to support the Department of Trade, Employment and Training Skills for Queensland in delivering the 2026 Toowoomba Jobs Expo.

31/08/2026

TOOWOOMBA: ๐Ÿ“š Build your skills for work

The next round of Multicultural Mailer Inc.โ€™s Community Foundation Skills Program starts in September, supporting migrants, refugees, job seekers and other community members to build practical skills for employment.

Participants can work towards a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways, while improving workplace English, communication and confidence through practical, real-life activities.

๐Ÿ“… Starts Friday 4 September
๐Ÿ“ Toowoomba

Eligible participants can also access up to $300 in scholarship support through Queensland Training and Employment Services - QTES towards driving lessons, a White Card, First Aid and more (conditions apply).

Places are limited!
๐Ÿ‘‰ Register: https://champ.ly/S1-jBhKh
๐Ÿ“ž More information: 0424 150 710 or 0480 674 472

This Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative is proudly funded by the Queensland Government Skills for Queensland

30/08/2026

INDIGENOUS WORKFORCE AND SKILLS DEVELOPMENT GRANT: Applications are now open for the Queensland Governmentโ€™s 2026โ€“28 Indigenous Workforce and Skills Development Grant program.

The program supports training and employment pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through two funding streams:

โ–ถ๏ธ Place-based projects - up to $350,000 for projects responding to local workforce and skills needs. Applications close 8 October 2026.

โ–ถ๏ธ Traineeships, apprenticeships and graduate positions - $20,000 wage subsidies for eligible employers creating new full-time positions in priority industries.

The program is part of the Australian and Queensland Governmentsโ€™ Closing the Gap in Vocational Education and Training initiative.

๐Ÿ‘‰ More information, eligibility and funding guidelines: https://champ.ly/5tKF-cTQ

Skills for Queensland
Department of Employment and Workplace Relations

Address

123 Margaret Street
Toowoomba, QLD
4350

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