Regional Development Australia (RDA) Melbourne helps drive economic development across Victoria. We collaborate with the Victorian RDA Committees, government and the private sector.
We support regional efforts from our unique position as a capital city RDA. Below are some of the committee’s recent projects.
Bendigo Artificial Intelligence (AI) forum
We partnered with RDA Loddon Mallee to show how AI can improve business. We looked at challenges, risks, benefits and gains.
Over 130 people attended the event to better understand AI and its capabilities.
Our policy paper explores insights from the event and considers opportunities and next steps.
For case studies from the forum, including case studies, keynotes and panel discussions, see the event playlist on You Tube.
Download the Artificial Intelligence Forum Policy Paper:
- Artificial Intelligence Forum Policy Paper: Insights, Opportunities and Next Steps (PDF 1502.75 KB)
- Artificial Intelligence Forum Policy Paper: Insights, Opportunities and Next Steps (DOCX 1248.1 KB)
Addressing regional workforce and skills shortages through hybrid work
We asked Swinburne to explore 'anywhere working' to help fix regional worker shortages. The study found flexibility in work location and hours can increase business productivity. It can also help unlock a diverse talent pool.
The study emphasises that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hybrid work. Some organisations favour remote-first models. Others need in-office attendance.
Recommendations include:
- promote a flexible work culture
- support regional employers to adopt flexible practices
- uplift digital skills.
Download the Hybrid Work Opportunities in Regional Victoria – Final Report (PDF 5859.79 KB) .
Note: this report may not meet accessibility requirements. If you require the content in an alternative format, please contact RDA Melbourne.
Melbourne’s North Advanced Manufacturing Group (MNAMG)
We partnered with MNAMG to explore partnership opportunities for manufacturers. Collaborating with other businesses, educational institutions and government could unlock untapped benefits, including:
- new product opportunities
- strengthened local supply chain capabilities
- enhanced business systems
- training and technology development
- establishing sustainable local and export markets.
Gippsland Peri-Urban REDS Addendum
Areas where the city meets the regions have unique growth challenges and opportunities. We partnered with RDA Gippsland to study the zone from Dandenong to the Latrobe Valley.
The Gippsland Peri-Urban Regional Economic Development Strategy (REDS) includes:
- population profiles
- workforce skills, industry and employment overview
- culture, tourism and the environment overview
- movement and connections overview
- policy gaps
- future work and recommendations.
Downloads:
- Gippsland-Melbourne peri-urban zone – Socioeconomic profile (PDF 6356.63 KB)
- Gippsland and Southeast Melbourne – Peri-urban zone (PDF 1690.63 KB)
Note: this report may not meet accessibility requirements. If you require the content in an alternative format, please contact RDA Melbourne.
Advanced Manufacturing
We showcased advanced manufacturing capabilities for Victoria's regional RDAs. The event highlighted Industry 4.0 benefits for small-to-medium enterprises. Presenters included Swinburne University and Gangi Germicidal Systems.
Melbourne Metropolitan Economy and Employment Analysis
We asked SGS Economics and Planning to study metropolitan Melbourne's economic growth potential. The report considers strengths and areas of improvement, key existing and emerging sectors. A Hausmann analysis explores manufacturing and export opportunities.
Download the RDA Melbourne Research Report (PDF 3267.17 KB) .
Note: this report may not meet accessibility requirements. If you require the content in an alternative format, please contact RDA Melbourne.