RDA Orana expands ‘The Welcome Experience’

The Welcome Experience team Julie Webster (Dubbo Region), Kelly Lienesch (Bourke), RDA Orana CEO Justine Campbell and Alana Copelan (Walgett). Photo TWH

RDA Orana has welcomed a state government announcement that ‘The Welcome Experience’ program will expand, helping essential workers and their families settle into new regional homes — a move that will strengthen essential services and support workforce attraction across the Orana region.

RDA Orana will establish a fulltime Local Connector based in the MidWestern Regional Shire, alongside casual Local Welcomers in Bogan, Brewarrina, Cobar, Coonamble, Gilgandra, Narromine, Warren and Warrumbungle shires.

The expansion builds on strong results since the launch of the program two years ago, where Local Connectors in Bourke, Walgett and Dubbo Region have supported hundreds of essential workers and their families to relocate and make their home in the Orana region.

RDA Orana CEO Justine Campbell said the expansion recognises the proven impact of the program and the region’s workforce needs.

“We’ve been calling for this because we know our regions are facing critical workforce shortages and we’ve seen firsthand how powerful this support is. Our Connectors in Bourke, Walgett and the Dubbo Region have made a real impact, helping more workers feel confident about making the move and helping families build a life in the region. […]

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