About the project
This Regional Drought Resilience Plan (RDRP) is a collaboration between Armidale Regional Council and Uralla Shire Council, to be developed alongside local industry and community to advance the region’s focus on its resilience to the impacts of drought.
The RDRP program is being delivered across Australia. It is one of five focus areas of the Commonwealth Government’s Future Drought Fund. These plans focus on innovative ways to build regional drought resilience, taking steps to plan now to stem the impact of future drought on our region.
The NSW RDRP program is jointly funded through the Commonwealth Government’s Future Drought Fund and the NSW Government, supporting local governments to work together regionally to plan for drought resilience proactively and pragmatically.
Why do we need a plan?
Of the climate and weather-related conditions that affect Australia, drought is often the most challenging, not just on-farm but for entire communities and regions. The costs of drought are spread across economic, social and environmental factors, and impacts can linger for decades.
We know droughts will come again. Climate projections for the region indicate increasing temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and potential increase in the severity of droughts.
The most effective response to rising uncertainty is to plan for greater drought resilience through a range of actions. Having a plan enables us to think and act strategically, rather than on an ad hoc basis once the pressure of drought is upon us. This includes developing a consolidated approach across local government areas, recognising the strength in collaboration across communities.
What is the aim of the RDRP?
An RDRP will identify key drought resilience priorities for the region, and provide a roadmap of actions to help Councils to work together to best prepare for and effectively manage the impacts of drought, and obtain and direct funding into those things that serve our needs. This involves taking steps to support primary producers, local businesses and the broader community to bolster resilience before, during and after drought. We will collectively achieve this through a focus on connected communities, diversified economic activity and healthy landscapes.
What’s next and how to be involved in the project?
Do you have ideas or want to add your thoughts to how this project continues?
Development of the Armidale and Uralla RDRP has recently commenced. An online survey for community members, and business is now open here.
Photo by Clark Wilson on Unsplash
