Regional Leadership Development Program
Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland (RDAMR) has welcomed continued investment from the South Australian Government through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions to deliver the next phase of the highly successful Regional Leadership Development Program (RLDP).
“Regional leaders play a vital role in creating thriving communities. Programs like the Regional Leadership Development Program provide people with the confidence, skills and connections they need to lead initiatives, support their industries and contribute to regional growth,” Minister Scriven said.
The RLDP Program is under development and will be released in the last quarter of 2026.
What is the Regional Leadership Development Program (RLDP)?
Many regional communities struggle to develop and retain their leadership capacity, both in quantity and development of their skills.
Our research has shown a demand for a regional leadership program in the Murraylands and Riverland that would benefit our businesses, our regional organisations and associations, communities, and the broader economy in our region.
This program is funded through the Government of South Australia and The Department of Primary Industries and Regions. The planning and development process is guided by a local and expert Steering Committee, that recognises the great leadership potential in the region, but it needs to be stimulated and fostered through more conscious investment in leadership skill development.
The intention is to put in place a framework that enables the delivery of a long-term sustainable leadership program, sponsored by business, community, government, and philanthropic organisations in the Murraylands and Riverland with regional economic and social benefits beyond the project deliverables.
Expected Outcomes
See what some of our 2025 program participants have to say!
My mind blown has been blown and the facilitators have created such an amazing environment.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
As a teacher you would think that I would be a confident public speaker… well I wasn’t, and I still wouldn’t say I am… but my growth is phenomenal!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
As always exceeded expectations and always providing additional stories to help us get sticky for the new tools. Favourite takeaway: progress over perfection.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
From the very first day of the course in Murray Bridge my confidence in public speaking in a group has improved drastically.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
I’ve experienced an initial shift in my ability to apply communication strategies when leading change. I now recognise that different audiences respond to different approaches, but it will take time developing confidence in applying these strategies consistently.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Thank you I feel very blessed to be able to participate in this program with amazing facilitators and such wonderful partcipants.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
EXCEEDED! One million percent exceeded my expectations. What an incredible program and an AMAZING group of people!!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Loved it. Loved and more aware of above or below the line, five love languages. I know I do it in my family, but can see that it is worth doing in workplace.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
This has been a game changer, honestly! Hugely insightful and helpful. I have gathered some truly valuable knowledge that I believe will help me in leading my team in a way that really works and is sustainable!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
It has gone above and beyond my expectations. The deepness around self was not what I expected or what I attached to leadership and that has been an eye opening and a learning on so many levels.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Participant Interviews
Videography – Jacob Jennings
RLDP Accomplishments
Please click on each year to find out more information…
RLDP History
Program Activities
Click on a program to find out more information…
2025 Program Facilitators
We would like to thank our Program Facilitators for the 2025 RLDP.
Aurora Meliora and LeadersHP will lead the design and facilitation of the program, and maintain responsibility for overall program design, integration, and cohort support. The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation will oversee the delivery of both Change maker programs (in collaboration with ARLF Associates, Tanya Lehmann and Susannah Dodd).
All three Delivery Partners will co-design and facilitate the final day.
Program Activities
Click on a program to find out more information…
2024 Program Facilitators
We would like to thank our Program Facilitators for the 2024 RLDP.
Aurora Meliora and LeadersHP will lead the design and facilitation of the program, and maintain responsibility for overall program design, integration, and cohort support. The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation will oversee the delivery of both Change maker programs (in collaboration with ARLF Associate, Tanya Lehmann).
All three Delivery Partners will co-design and facilitate the final day.
Program Activities
Click on a program to find out more information…
About The Leaders Institute of South Australia
The Leaders Institute develops impactful leaders by encouraging self-awareness and providing opportunities to experience different perspectives – because better leaders create a better South Australia.
We are a not-for-profit organisation committed to developing a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous South Australia by developing impactful leaders.
Focussing on holistic leadership development to foster future leaders, our innovative leadership programs expand the capacity and performance of individuals and teams at all levels.
We work with both emerging and established leaders across private enterprise, government, and community organisations. We exist to develop impactful leaders.
Through our leadership development programs we help to create a powerful sense of connection between individuals, their organisations, and the wider community. This develops leaders with an outward focus and strong collaboration skills, who understand that their greatest value is the impact they can have on the world around them.
True impact radiates beyond one or two people. It’s felt by strangers, businesses, and the next generation. That’s the kind of impact the Leaders Institute empowers. A not-for-profit association, for over 20 years we have been developing leaders by encouraging self-awareness and providing opportunities to understand the big picture and different perspectives.
How We Work: Our Expertise
We deliver programs that build adaptive leadership capacity; the practise of mobilising people to tackle tough challenges and thrive. Adaptive leaders have strategic foresight, thrive in complexity, and can integrate multiple perspectives and systems to lead change successfully. Our lively and experiential programs are designed to engage diverse learning styles and personalities.
Our Action – Based on community feedback
Last year I was lucky enough to participate in the amazing 6 month leadership program. A journey filled with so much knowledge, passion and stories from other like minded leaders from across the region. Now I have the privilege to be an alumni on the RLDP steering committee, helping shape the 2025 program and being able to see the next group of leaders grow on their individual journey. You won’t regret applying!
April Watson (2024 RLDP Participant)
You do not need to be arrogant or a confident speaker to be a great leader. Leaders come in many styles and there’s not a one size-fits-all. Being a great leader means being adaptable and focusing on your team’s strengths rather than weaknesses. You can still be a leader and be kind, empathetic, and caring.
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
Last year I got to spend months experiencing one of the best leadership courses around, facilitated by absolute legends and it was an absolute privilege to be involved! It was a reminder that I am enough and to participate, fairly voluntarily, in public speaking, including on camera, by the end just showed me just how far I had come.
I also got to meet the most amazing group of people! People who are friends for life, are all amazing individuals, and come from such a diverse range of backgrounds! So glad to be an alumni this year, helping mould it for future participants! If anyone here in Regional SA is thinking of doing it, please do!
Jessie Claire (2024 RLDP Participant)
My mind blown has been blown and the facilitators have created such an amazing environment.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
What I’ve enjoyed most was the fact you have bought together people who have not met before, but after two days together you can see bonds forming and there’s no division. I applaud the facilitator’s for achieving this as I’ve not experienced it before and I’m really keen to see where some of the relationships take us in the future.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
As always exceeded expectations and always providing additional stories to help us get sticky for the new tools. Favourite takeaway: progress over perfection.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Very engaging and interesting. Presented in a way that the information can be used rather than just discussed and forgotten about.
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
I was impressed at how others, more experienced course attendees felt that they has also gained insight through this learning experience. I really like the nammer and generous nature of the presentation.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
I would just like to say thank you to all involved for such a wonderful couple of days. It really made me think about the way I can change my style of leadership to be able to receive the best out of my team.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
From experience; You spend your life learning. Why not spend some time learning about yourself using a different lense; develop skills in areas you didn’t know you possessed and make friends along the way. This years applications are open; and if you are thinking about applying and have any questions I’m happy to share my experience- which was nothing short of brilliant.
Kiara Fisher (2024 RLDP Participant)
Thank you I feel very blessed to be able to participate in this program with amazing facilitators and such wonderful partcipants.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
The program gave me valuable tips, knowledge, and connections to furthering my abilities to lead within my role at work & to implement within my community. I am more confident in myself as a leader & recommend the course to anyone that wants to expand or improve these skills.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
I’ve experienced an initial shift in my ability to apply communication strategies when leading change. I now recognise that different audiences respond to different approaches, but it will take time developing confidence in applying these strategies consistently.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
EXCEEDED! One million percent exceeded my expectations. What an incredible program and an AMAZING group of people!!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
I was brave today. I tore down some walls and bared my soul to a group of people who until recently were strangers to me… The support was overwhelming but more importantly, it was empowering. I am not sure if I fully accept the notion that I—Bek… aka the stabby unicorn aka the humble spud—am a leader.
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
Can I please come back next year?!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Today was the perfect close to an incredible nine days of growth, reflection, learning and just the most amazing opportunity for all ofthe above. My brain is overloaded and I feel like I can’t make sense of any of the things I want to say, but my goodness I am so grateful!!! So, so grateful!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
After six months in the RDAMR Leadership Program last year, I can confidently say that this experience has been transformative. The program has not only helped me develop as a leader but has also instilled in me a deeper understanding of core values that are essential for personal and professional growth.
One of the key strengths of the program is its focus on core values. It has pushed me to reflect on what truly matters to me, both in terms of leadership and in life. I’ve learned how to lead with integrity, resilience, and empathy, which has allowed me to build stronger, more trusting relationships with both my team and peers. The importance of self-awareness and ethical leadership has been woven into every session, creating an environment where values aren’t just discussed, but actively practiced.
The diversity of the participants has been one of the most rewarding aspects. I’ve had the opportunity to meet people from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, and industries. This diversity has opened my eyes to different perspectives, challenging me to broaden my thinking and embrace new ideas. The connections I’ve made with fellow participants have been invaluable and if I didn’t already, I now have a strong network of like-minded individuals who inspire me every day.
Equally inspiring have been the facilitators. The team behind this program brings a wealth of experience and passion to the table, offering both practical insights and motivational guidance. Their ability to challenge, encourage, and nurture participants has been remarkable. They’ve created a learning environment that feels safe and empowering, while pushing me to reach beyond my limits and break through personal barriers.
The program has been a deep dive into leadership, self-reflection, and continuous learning. It’s not just about acquiring skills—it’s about shaping the kind of leader I aspire to be and understanding how to lead in a way that aligns with my values. As I move forward, I feel more confident in my ability to make decisions, inspire others, and contribute positively to the organizations and communities I’m a part of.
My six months in the RDAMR Leadership Program have been incredibly enriching. I’ve developed a stronger sense of purpose, gained valuable leadership insights, and built lasting relationships with some truly remarkable / talented people. I’m excited as I know this journey has not ended, knowing that I’m on the right path towards becoming the leader I’ve always wanted to be.
James Commane-Jacobs (2024 RLDP Participant)
This has been a game changer, honestly! Hugely insightful and helpful. I have gathered some truly valuable knowledge that I believe will help me in leading my team in a way that really works and is sustainable!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
I’ve really enjoyed the different learning styles and being pushed out of my comfort zone. The content has been great, and I’ve really enjoyed the delivery through different facilitators and guest speakers.
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
A really informative, practical course which I will be recommending to others.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
I would just like to say thank you to all involved for such a wonderful couple of days. It really made me think about the way I can change my style of leadership to be able to receive the best out of my team.
RLDP Participant
The Regional Development Leadership Course has been a wonderful experience. Not only have I learnt and implemented different ways to lead, but I’ve also gained a bunch of people who I’ve connected with and can reach out to for advice. The Facilitators have been amazing and so supportive, and I’d absolutely recommend this program to anyone who is an upcoming leader and current leader in the community or workplace.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
Totally not what I expected!
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
What I’ve enjoyed most was the fact you have bought together people who have not met before, but after two days together you can see bonds forming and there’s no division. I applaud the facilitator’s for achieving this as I’ve not experienced it before and I’m really keen to see where some of the relationships take us in the future.
RLDP Participant
I’m off to change the world!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Thoroughly enjoyed the day and picked by many hints to implement in my grant writing. Also met some great people including the presenter who was knowledgeable and entertaining.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
The course has broadened my perspective on leadership, highlighting two key takeaways:
- The significance of inspirational leadership.
- The importance of good governance.
This course matches the passion for change with the practical skills needed to actually transform ideas into real life outcomes.
2023 RLDP Participant
It has gone above and beyond my expectations. The deepness around self was not what I expected or what I attached to leadership and that has been an eye opening and a learning on so many levels.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
I have learnt to come from a place of authenticity and to and where my strengths can be utilised before choosing what I get or how I am involved.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Over exceeded my expectations. Matt and Susannah make the content easy to understand and deliver it in a very interactive way, which is great. It’s content which is so individualised but done well bringing it all together.
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
As a teacher you would think that I would be a confident public speaker… well I wasn’t, and I still wouldn’t say I am… but my growth is phenomenal!
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
From the very first day of the course in Murray Bridge my confidence in public speaking in a group has improved drastically.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
Today, I stand with a clear vision of a future where we, as a community, stand together
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
When I was approached to sign up for the RLDP, I was hesitant as I never saw myself as a leader, however with encouragement from a colleague, I signed up. From day 1 this program has given me the chance to work on my confidence and leadership skills. I was never someone to be able to start up a conversation with a group of strangers easily, but now I am confident in my ability to approach a group and participate in a conversation. This program has not only developed leadership skills but given me the opportunity to meet some incredible people, whom I now call friends.
2023 RLDP Workshop Participant
Loved it. Loved and more aware of above or below the line, five love languages. I know I do it in my family, but can see that it is worth doing in workplace.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
I didn’t feel as though I was capable of being a leader, but the self-awareness focus helped me understand the differences in leadership style and that it’s not a big unobtainable role.
2024 RLDP Workshop Participant
Wasn’t sure what to expect and if this was the right course for me. I’m so glad to have been apart of the last 2 days and am excited to learn and explore more.
2025 RLDP Workshop Participant
