How can regional and remote areas access training in economic development? Economic Development Australia (EDA) runs an innovative program that addresses this need. The Regional and Remote Area Training Program (RRATP) connects interested regional and remote communities with economic development professionals who facilitate the two day program on a voluntary basis. Funding for national coordination of the program is provided by the Department of Regional Australia, Local Government, Arts and Sport.
A RRAPT was held at the Merredin Leisure and Recreation Centre on Friday 5 and Saturday 6 October. Approximately 30 participants representing seven Shires of the Eastern Wheatbelt took part.
The program was facilitated by EDA members Damien Martin, Anne Petch and Alison Dalziel. They presented case studies based on their own experiences and facilitated an economic development workshop focusing on values, trends, opportunities and issues/barriers to economic growth. The determinants of long term regional economic growth, as agreed by COAG Regional Australia Standing Council in July 2012, were used to frame discussions around the economic future for the Eastern Wheatbelt.
The program was pioneered in Western Australia and has now been held in several parts of Australia. This was the sixth time it has been held in the Wheatbelt, with the Shires of Mukinbudin, Moora, Dalwallinu, Brookton and Wagin all previously being hosts.
