Regional Drought Resilience Plan

Supporting agricultural sustainability in the face of climate change

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Regional Development Australia Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu & Kangaroo Island (RDA AHFKI) is excited to announce our lead in developing a Regional Drought Resilience (RDR) Plan for our region.

This initiative, jointly funded initiative through the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Government of South Australia, aims to strengthen our region’s capacity to withstand and adapt to increasing drought conditions.

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Building a Resilient Future

The RDR Plan represents a proactive approach to climate challenges in our region. It aims to help us not just recover from droughts, but to adapt and transform in response to changing temperatures, rainfall variability, and shifting seasonal patterns.

This may include improvements to farming methods, using water more wisely, and greater community support. In making these changes, we will strengthen our region by ensuring we can sustain agricultural production, preserve farming landscapes, and maintain economic opportunities into the future.

Preparing for Increasing Variability with Community-Led Planning

The Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Kangaroo Island have all faced severe droughts –  and the trend is expected to continue with more unpredictable weather patterns, with both droughts and periods of heavy rainfall likely to become more common. These changes require a strategic approach to ensure the region’s farms, economy, and communities can respond to climate challenges.

Drawing on each region’s past experience with drought, the plan aims to capture the collective wisdom of local communities to form a strong and actionable roadmap for the future. The RDR Plan Committee will consult with key representatives from the Eastern Fleurieu, Western Fleurieu, Kangaroo Island, and Adelaide Hills, to ensure the unique needs and perspectives of each of these regions are considered.

Inclusive and Strategic Approach

With a focus on inclusivity, the RDR Plan values the input of diverse voices, including minority and marginalised groups. Guided by a steering committee comprising representatives from local councils, agricultural organisations, and community groups, the plan aims to ensure broad representation and effective governance throughout its development.

If you’d like more information about the plan or would like to know how to provide feedback, please contact Brett Mayne on 0481 369 954.

Timeline and Key Milestones

The RDR Plan is scheduled for completion with the final draft submission due in September 2024, followed by the plan’s official launch between October and November 2024. These milestones represent the culmination of extensive stakeholder engagement and comprehensive planning efforts to enhance drought resilience across the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu, and Kangaroo Island regions.

Stay Informed

Improving drought preparedness for the Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu Peninsula, and Kangaroo Island is a crucial initiative, and the RDR Plan is an important step towards helping our region better manage future climate conditions.  

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