At the RDI Network, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of development researchers and practitioners across the Indo-Pacific. Our mission is to connect expertise and amplify diverse voices to undertake and use research, learning, and evidence for effective and equitable international development, achieving sustainable futures for people and the planet. See our Strategic Plan for more information.
Our Objectives
We have four key objectives that guide our work:
- Broker Connections and Knowledge Exchange: We facilitate connections and knowledge exchange between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to enhance development practice.
- Influence Development Practice: We aim to influence development practice through enhanced research and evaluation capacity.
- Promote Locally-Led Development: We promote locally-led and inclusive development research and knowledge integration.
- Ensure Organisational Sustainability: We strive to ensure our organisational sustainability and effectiveness, delivering unique value for our members.
Our Unique Value
We connect researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in government, NGOs, and the private sector in Australia and the Indo-Pacific region. We convene collaboration spaces for sharing research and practice-based knowledge, bringing evidence and innovation to bear on critical development challenges. We build the skills, capabilities, and mindsets needed to meet the development challenges of our time. We also promote locally-led development, greater valuing of Global South knowledge and expertise, and foster mutual learning.
Our Community
Our community of practice is open to individuals and organisations engaged in international development. This includes researchers, practitioners, students, evaluators, advisors, consultants, and specialists from the public and private sectors. Collaboration between Australian universities and practitioners in government, NGOs, and the private sector is central to our goal of promoting quality research with impact in international development.
In 2023, the RDI Network was established as an independent Australian charity. See our Constitution for more information
RDI Network Invites Financial Membership
Current RDI Network members will soon be invited to become financial members. See our membership update for more information.
To guarantee the RDI Network’s viability and its critical role in connecting the development sector, we must transition to a sustainable funding model, with membership fees as a core element. This change – starting from 1 July 2025 – is essential for maintaining our independence, expanding our programs, and strengthening our community, ensuring we can continue to serve the sector.
