Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland (RDAMR) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Regional Leadership Development Program (RLDP) at the Bridgeport Hotel in Murray Bridge on Tuesday 27 May 2025.
The program is made possible through a grant of more than $280,000 from the Government of South Australia. Following the success of the 2022-23 RDLP, the State Government allocated a further $2 million over the next two years for RDAs to continue the place-based program to empower a greater diversity of leaders in regional South Australia.
RDAMR is dedicated to supporting sustainable regional growth and fostering community-led development through innovative programs like the RLDP, where we work with aspirational regional leaders to build their self-belief and leadership capabilities, so they can create local pathways for positive change.
Building on the success of RLDP 2023 and 2024 that has already seen over 200 locals benefit from this transformative initiative, the RLDP 2025 will continue to equip aspirational regional leaders with the skills necessary to drive sustainable growth, innovation and community collaboration.
The RLDP is a collaborative effort led by RDAMR, in partnership with the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, South Australia (PIRSA), and key regional stakeholders. The program is designed to develop visionary leaders who can address the evolving challenges faced by regional communities, while fostering long-term, impactful connections.
Running from 2022 to at least 2026, the RLDP is expanding its footprint across regional South Australia. The program offers a range of initiatives tailored to meet the diverse leadership development needs of participants.
The success of the 2024 cohort demonstrates the RLDP’s transformative impact:
Kiara, who embarked on a journey of self-awareness and community leadership, is using her boost in leadership skills to restore the Bugle Hut (just outside of Loxton) and to organise the River Fringe, exemplifying the program’s ability to foster leaders who drive positive change.
Bek, Clinical Care Manager, credits the RLDP for strengthening her resilience and leadership in the healthcare sector. Her advocacy for improved transportation services for the elderly in the Riverland underscores the program’s focus on meaningful community impact.
Christine, has applied her RLDP experiences to expand her involvement in youth development and community projects, reflecting the program’s role in nurturing leaders who contribute to regional growth.
As testament to the values of stepping up and giving back, six graduates from the 2024 cohort have joined the RLDP Steering Committee, helping to shape the future of the program and ensuring its continued success.
The 2025 launch in Murray Bridge will provide new opportunities for mentorship, skill-building and engagement with policymakers. We are excited to announce that RLDP 2025 will offer an expanded curriculum, with hands-on learning opportunities and access to valuable resources and mentorship.
For more information on the RLDP and to register for RLDP 2025, please visit RDAMR’s RLDP Page here: rdamr.com.au/rldp/
NOTE: RDAMR is happy to liaise with RLDP 2024 cohort participants for media statements.
Media contacts:
Claire Garner – Strategic Business & Communications Manager
M: 0423 533 354 | E: cgarner@rdamr.com.au
Mandy Tennant – Program Manager
M: 0400 781 390 | E: mtennant@rdamr.com.au
