The inaugural 2024 RDA Awards were presented by The Hon Don Punch WA Minister for Regional Development; Disability Services; Fisheries; Seniors and Ageing; Volunteering. The event was part of the RDA National Forum Dinner and Awards Ceremony in Busselton WA, on 28 October 2024.

There were four categories for the RDA Awards, which align with the four focus areas of the Regional Investment Framework. These are:

1. Investing in People—putting people at the forefront of growth, with local voices influencing decision making.
2. Investing in Places—targeted and place-based investment that enables communities to thrive.
3. Investing in Services—investment in regional services with a focus on improving quality and accessibility.
4. Investing in Industries and Local Economies—ensuring regional industries and economies are positioned for sustainable growth.

There were 12 award recipients, a winner and a commendation in each category, plus four special commendations.

The special commendations recognise initiatives or projects that due to their nature, may not have been relevant to all of the assessment criteria, but nonetheless delivered significant outcomes for their communities.

All nominations reflected the significant amount of high-quality work being undertaken by RDAs in support of their communities.

Learn more

• Regional Investment Framework
• Watch the highlights from the RDA Forum and Awards