Former mayor to head regional development advisory committee

FORMER City of Greater Bendigo mayor and longtime community leader Margaret O’Rourke OAM has been appointed chair of Victoria’s Regional Development Advisory Committee (RDAC).

RDAC was established in 2002 to provide independent advice to government on cross-regional matters.

Its committee consists of an independent chair and the chairs of the nine Regional Partnerships – Mallee, Wimmera Southern Mallee, Great South Coast, Central Highlands, Loddon Campaspe, Barwon, Goulburn, Ovens Murray and Gippsland – who together provide a coordinated, state-wide voice on issues and opportunities impacting Victoria’s regions.

RDAC also plays a role in identifying emerging priorities that may impact regional development across multiple regions and advocates for policy and investment opportunities championed by the Regional Partnerships.

“RDAC ensures Victoria’s regional policies and opportunities are shaped by people who understand the local challenges and strengths, and that means our initiatives can be targeted, effective and locally responsive,” said CEO Xavier Csar.

Ms O’Rourke brings leadership and business experience from her current and former roles in regional Victoria.

Presently Head of La Trobe University’s Bendigo Campus and former Chair of Bendigo Kangan Institute, she also sits on the V/Line Advisory Board, is Chair of Regional Cities Victoria and held former senior positions with Telstra and Bendigo Telco.

“It’s an honour to Chair RDAC and to continue to lead the Committee’s work in connecting local priorities across the regions – ensuring the voice of regional and rural communities are heard directly at the heart of Government,” Ms O’Rourke said.