RDA Barwon South West collaborates with all levels of government, regional leaders and businesses to identify opportunities to leverage Australian Government programs that will increase economic activity in our region. We work closely with proponents whose projects align with our objectives and, where possible, advocate for fast‐tracked approval and delivery of projects.
Our strategic priorities are informed by evidence and information, including the Regional Economic Development Strategies of the Barwon and Great South Coast Regional Partnerships.
We collaborate with regional leaders to gather input on submissions and advice from the Australian Government. Our strong relationships with local government leaders enable us to actively participate in working groups involving local stakeholders.
Who we are
The RDA Barwon South West committee consists of local business experts who are dedicated to developing and implementing local solutions for regional issues. They collaborate with government, businesses, and community groups to support the region's growth and development.
What we do
The RDA Barwon South West Committee is dedicated to driving economic growth, innovation, and sustainability across our region. Aligned with the Australian Government’s Regional Investment Framework, we collaborate with local communities, businesses, and governments to support strategic regional priorities. Our efforts focus on facilitating investment in people, places, services and industries and local economies. We work to bridge development gaps by building evidence-based economic strategies, facilitating regional partnerships, and ensuring inclusive growth that leaves no one behind.
Who we work with
The RDA Barwon South West Committee collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders, including businesses, not-for-profits, industry bodies, and government agencies, to strengthen key sectors, promote regional capabilities, and leverage the region’s unique advantages.
We engage with all Barwon South West local government areas, including Greater Geelong, Queenscliffe, Surf Coast, Colac Otway, Corangamite, Moyne, Warrnambool, Southern Grampians, and Glenelg, to align regional priorities and drive economic development.
We partner with like-minded organisations such as the Barwon and Great South Coast Regional Partnerships, South West Vic Alliance, and the Geelong Region Alliance (G21) to coordinate efforts, share knowledge, and advance shared regional goals.
We collaborate with RDA Committees across Victoria and neighbouring RDA Committees in Tasmania identify and capitalise on synergistic opportunities, enhancing regional economic activity and leveraging shared strengths.
Through these partnerships, we ensure that the Barwon South West region is well-positioned to meet economic challenges and seize emerging opportunities.
Our region
The Barwon South West region is adjacent to Melbourne's rapidly growing western corridor and its population is currently estimated at approximately 453,600 people as of 2023. The region has diverse economic foundations with three primary economic sectors: inland agriculture, coastal tourism, and a manufacturing and service hub centred in Geelong.
Key employment sectors in the region include manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. There are significant emerging opportunities in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and food security industries. Educational institutions such as Deakin University, South West TAFE and The Gordon Institute of TAFE provide essential skills and training, supporting the region's economic growth.
The region is well-connected with deep-sea ports in Portland and Geelong, and extensive road and rail networks, facilitating strong connections to both international and interstate markets. The expansion of Avalon Airport near Geelong further strengthens the region's visitor economy, especially with the popularity of the Great Ocean Road.
Major investments by the State and Australian Government, including the Geelong City Deal and the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan, are essential in driving economic development and enhancing the region’s tourism infrastructure. These initiatives are critical for sustaining long-term growth and supporting the region's transition to a more diversified and resilient economy.