Professor Sue Kilpatrick appointed Tasmanian chair of Regional Development Australia

Professor Sue Kilpatrick has been appointed as the Chair of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Tasmania.

Professor Kilpatrick will chair the Tasmania RDA committee, one of a national network of committees that work across government, business and community groups to enhance the development of Australia’s regions.

She is a Professor of Education in the Faculty of Education at the University of Tasmania (UTAS), was a Pro Vice Chancellor for UTAS and at Deakin University, and a Director on the Northern Tasmania Development Corporation board.

Professor Kilpatrick also led the development of the Northern Tasmania Regional Economic Development Strategy, which required negotiation with all three levels of government as well as business and UTAS.

As the Director of the University of Tasmania Department of Rural Health, Professor Kilpatrick brokered relationships with public and private sector stakeholders, and increased research and government funding.

She will serve as Chair until 30 June 2025.

RDA Tasmania’s responsibilities include:

• providing independent advice to all three levels of government on critical issues affecting the region
• collaborating with relevant stakeholders to identify economic opportunities and leverage private and public sector investment to the region
• connecting regional businesses, councils and industry sectors with international trade partners, financial markets and potential investors
• working closely with community leaders to identify funding sources
• assisting local communities to develop project proposals to support economic growth
• promoting awareness of government programs in the local community.

For more information on the national RDA network, visit www.rda.gov.au.  

Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, and Member for Eden-Monaro, the Hon Kristy McBain MP:

“With her extensive experience and networks, Professor Kilpatrick is well placed to lead RDA Tasmania’s work to facilitate initiatives and collaborations that grow the local economy, promote opportunities and attract investment.

“Professor Kilpatrick will play a key role in overseeing the implementation of RDA’s Strategic Regional Plan for Tasmania, and will continue to maintain the RDA’s strong relationship with all levels of government, along with the Local Government Association of Tasmania.

“I would also like to thank Doug Chipman for his service as the Acting Chair during this recruitment period – and for overseeing the critical advice RDA Tasmania provides to governments.”