Coffs Harbour City Council is seeking to strengthen its influence in Canberra by rejoining a national advocacy group representing regional cities.
City of Coffs Harbour Council has resolved to apply for membership of Regional Capitals Australia following a council meeting on 19 March, aiming to boost its ability to lobby the Federal Government on key funding and policy priorities.
Mayor Nikki Williams said aligning with similar regional centres would help amplify the city’s voice.
“I’m a firm believer that people and organisations are stronger when working together,” Cr Williams said.
“That’s why I was so keen to build on our relationships with neighbouring Councils by joining the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation. Ditto with our membership of Regional Cities NSW, which advocates for appropriate State Government funding so that we can continue to thrive.
“Regional Capitals Australia (RCA) provides a platform for Coffs to be at the centre of national policy and funding decisions.”
Coffs Harbour was previously a member of RCA from 2015 to 2022, and was invited to rejoin late last year, with the organisation highlighting the opportunity to help shape national advocacy priorities.
“RCA membership will help open doors for us with Federal Ministers, MPs and senior bureaucrats,” Cr Williams said.
“It gives us a springboard to spell out the priorities for Coffs Harbour in the Federal policy sphere which is increasingly determining state and local funding outcomes.”
Council has resolved to apply for membership for the 2025–26 financial year at a cost of $11,000 per annum.
Josh Black, Chair of Regional Capitals Australia and Mayor of Dubbo Regional Council, said the organisation plays a key role in advocating for regional communities.
“As current Chair, I constantly see the crucial value that Regional Capitals Australia brings to its member councils,” Mr Black said.
“Our alliance gives us a strong advocacy platform and helps ensure that the regions we represent are able to reach their full social and economic potentials, greatly contributing to the lives and livelihoods of all our communities.”
Regional Capitals Australia represents a network of liveable, productive and fast-growing regional cities that act as hubs for surrounding towns and rural areas.
Current members include councils from across Australia, including Armidale and Tweed, with each council represented by its mayor and chief executive.
The organisation’s advocacy priorities include population growth, infrastructure, roads, aviation, housing, water security and arts and culture.
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