WA Regional Leaders Group The NRM Regional Leaders Group (NRMRLG) operates as an independent, non-Government body representing the six regional NRM organisations in Western Australia. The collaborative partnering approach of the NRMRLG clearly demonstrates a strong alliance and robust governance framework for NRM in WA and provides a single platform for joint initiatives between regional NRM organisations and interfacing with Government.  A funding model has been established that relies on each of the six NRM regional organisations contributing equally towards the costs of meeting NRMRLG administration and Executive Officer costs. An annual budget is in place to guide expenditure and one of the regional NRM organisations is appointed to manage NRMRLG financial affairs. A brief summary of NRMRLG achievements is provided below.  Governance and operations:   A Deed of Agreement was signed between regional NRM organisations in 2011 which outlined an agreed structure and mode of operation for the NRMRLG. An Executive Officer was contracted in September 2010 to undertake NRMRLG functions. Formal meetings of the NRMRLG are held regularly which provide a forum for productive collaboration between the six regional NRM organisations to share knowledge and discuss NRM initiatives, issues and approaches that can improve regional outcomes for NRM. The NRMRLG conducts quarterly meetings with NRM-related State Ministers providing an effective two-way communication channel between Members of Parliament, Australian, State and Local Governments and the NRM regional organisations (and their communities) for strategy development and review, strategic advice, and related information distribution. Formal meetings with the State Government ‘Council of Natural Resource Agencies Chief Executives ‘ (CONRACE) are held as needed providing independent and proactive leadership in the development, review, and enhancement of WA NRM policies and strategy. The NRMRLG provides WA representation on the National NRM Chairs Working Group and Chairs Forum.   Joint investments, programs and projects that cross regional boundaries: Supported the State Government contribution process for WA regional NRM organisations. A collaborative cross-regional funding proposal was submitted on behalf of the six regional NRM organisations to Royalty for Regions program in 2011. We are still awaiting the outcome. The NRMRLG continues to promote relevant research outcomes and encourage regional NRM organisations to adopt organisational performance benchmarks.  In 2011, the NRMRLG explored opportunities for shared services that enhance the cost effective support for NRM programs and assist regional NRM organisations. As part of the broader vision for Western Australia, the NRMRLG is currently in the process of creating an overarching “WA NRM Regional Framework” by combining the six existing regional strategies to create a Western Australia-wide vision that incorporates the commitments from all six regional NRM plans.  Engagement The NRMRLG has produced numerous reports, submissions and correspondence in 2011 as a combined effort between the six WA regional NRM organisations. The NRMRLG has provided written advice to the State NRM Office, State and Commonwealth Government on regional NRM issues. The NRM Regional Leaders Group is playing an active role in supporting the development a carbon industry in WA with its National and State engagements. The NRMRLG has initiated an NRM Regional Forum, comprised of a wide range of NRM entities that will meet for the first time in October 2011. The Forum will provide a unique opportunity for the NRMRLG to facilitate open discussion and partnering with key NRM stakeholders across all sectors on important NRM issues.