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