NEXT STEPS

The Regional Drought Resilience Plans (Burnett and Mary) have been developed through partnerships between the Rural Economies Centre of Excellence and Regional Development Australia Wide Bay Burnett (RDAWBB). Each plan reflects the unique conditions, priorities, and lived experiences of local stakeholders, ensuring resilience strategies are co-designed and tailored to the needs of their respective regions.

As the regional partner, RDAWBB is guiding the implementation of both plans and working to secure sustainable investment to bring activities to life. This includes coordinating partnerships with government, industry, community groups, and First Nations organisations; establishing governance structures; and piloting innovative projects in regenerative agriculture, water and energy security, and drought impact measurement.

While each plan responds to the specific challenges of its region, both share common objectives: embedding resilience into local planning, supporting knowledge sharing through digital tools, and fostering long-term preparedness. Together, the Burnett and Mary Plans aim to deliver lasting benefits, from stronger farming enterprises to more diverse and resilient local economies, healthier landscapes, and improved wellbeing for rural communities.

By building networks, resources, and practical solutions, the two plans provide a united framework for long-term action, ensuring the Burnett and Mary regions are better placed to manage drought and thrive into the future.