Overview
This year, the Regional Australia Institute (RAI) celebrated its 14th anniversary, marking a milestone in our mission to strengthen regional communities and shape a more balanced nation. From our beginnings as an independent, evidence-based think tank, we have worked to ensure regional voices remain central to Australia’s future.
The past year saw the launch of our Five-Year Strategy (2025–2030), setting a clear path for impact through research, policy leadership, and practical action. At the heart of this is the Regionalisation Ambition 2032, which continues to drive momentum nationwide. More Australians are choosing regional living, diversity is growing, and recognition of regional success as vital to national prosperity is stronger than ever.
Our work tackled critical challenges, from housing shortages to energy transition. Reports like Answering the Call for Regional Housing and Building a Legacy provided evidence and insights to guide decisions. Campaigns such as Move to More inspired thousands to explore regional living, while partnerships like ViewJobs connected jobseekers with employers.
Collaboration remains key. Through the Regions Rising National Summit, Regional Dialogue Day, and our Executive Education Program, we have convened leaders and empowered communities. Looking ahead, we will keep turning evidence into action and ambition into outcomes because when regional Australia thrives, the nation thrives.