Media Release: RDA Bushfire Disaster Relief

This summer has seen terrible destruction of infrastructure, property, natural resources and most unfortunately, the loss of lives in the Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island fires. There are significant mental health and financial impacts for people, organisations and businesses across these regions.

Adelaide Hills Council, Mount Barker District Council and Kangaroo Island Council have been directly impacted – their leadership has been strong and compassionate. Councils adjoining and further afield have also been responsive and supportive.

RDA’s role across our communities will continue albeit with emphasis on bushfire impacted areas. Our role is not in the early crisis management but in the promotion of programs and response initiatives from all levels of government, providing local intelligence to government, and actively pursuing the medium and long-term rebuilding of the region’s economy and liveability.

RDA’s focus is squarely on redevelopment initiatives and infrastructure that supports our economy’s key sectors including tourism and agriculture.

Our role includes:

1. Identification and prioritisation of needs and opportunities
2. Funding the development of economic business cases
3. Providing advice on funding sources and applications
4. Advocacy work

CEO, Damien Cooke said;
“This requires a review of our budget for the balance of the 2019-20 financial year and close collaboration with our impacted councils, local recovery coordinators and the many stakeholders involved. We have had many people and organisations reach out to offer assistance and our team is looking forward to working with everyone on what will be a challenging opportunity to rebuild.”

For discussion and further information, please contact: