The Welcome Experience in the Northern Inland

Are you an essential worker considering moving or have recently moved to the Northern Inland?

The Welcome Experience is a free service through the NSW Government to support essential workers relocate, settle in and become one of the locals. The Local Connector for your area will provide you with individualised support every step of the way as you settle in to your new home.

What Locations Are Eligible?

The Welcome Experience is currently available in the following Northern Inland local government areas:

• Armidale Region
• Tamworth Region
• Uralla
• Moree Plains
• Inverell
• Glen Innes

Who is Eligible?

If you are considering moving, or have recently moved to an eligible location and you work in one of the following roles or industries, you qualify for support:

• NSW Police
• Fire and Rescue NSW
• Rural Fire Service (Paid Employees)
• Health and Aged Care
• Education including Early Childhood
• Disability Support
• Child Protection and Out-of-Home Care
• Corrections and Justice
• Veterinary Services

What the Program Offers

The Local Connector for your selected area will make your transition easier by helping with:

Relocation

Preparing for the move, including a rundown of what to expect and organising a reliable removalist.

Housing

Connecting you with trusted real estate agencies to help find a place to call home in a safe neighbourhood.

Education

Providing information on early childhood education, schooling and university options in the area.

Social Connections

Connecting to sports clubs, social groups and community organisations to meet like-minded individuals.

Employment 

Supporting essential workers and partners to find relevant, meaningful employment.

Accessibility and Healthcare

Providing information on disability support, healthcare and other services providers.

Leisure and Recreation

Providing local knowledge on the best activities and events happening around town.

Cultural Connections

Providing information and introductions to cultural communities.

Local Connectors in the Northern Inland

Local Connector for Armidale and Uralla

Katrina George - kgeorge@rdani.org.au

Originally from Newcastle, NSW, Katrina began her career in hospitality and tourism, working in five-star hotels and resorts in both Sydney and the Hunter Valley. In 2003, she made the move to Armidale to establish and manage Petersons Armidale Winery and Guesthouse. Katrina and her family have formed lasting friendships and connections within the Armidale community.

Local Connector for Tamworth

Emma Grant - egrant@rdani.org.au

Emma was raised on a property in Bendemeer, NSW, where she developed a deep connection to rural life. In her late teens, she moved to Sydney to pursue her studies. Emma then spent several years traveling and working in regional communities across New South Wales and the Northern Territory, before returning to her home town of Tamworth in 2021 to raise her family.