RDA Illawarra works with Regional Development Australia, a partnership between federal, state and local governments that considers applications for major infrastructure funding in regions across the country.

Mr Osborne said there were many issues such as education, small business and tourism that would be the focus during his four-year term on the regional development committee, but said his pet project was the Port Kembla revitalisation.

"I think it's one of the great opportunities for regional development that we can achieve in a cost-effective fashion, and it will get a real groundswell of support," he said.

Mr Osborne, who has been working with the Port Kembla Quarter group on the Wentworth St revival, said the project would help support small business, employment, industry and tourism.

"What we've got out there is a place that was, in the '70s, a hub and hive of activity and happiness and cultural identity, and it's smack in the middle of one of the biggest industrial areas in the country," he said.

Joining Mr Osborne on the RDA Illawarra committee for the first time are Internetrix general manager Daniel Rowan and KPMG Wollongong partner Warwick Shanks.

Three other members - TAFE Illawarra Institute director Dianne Murray, Southern Youth and Family Services policy adviser Helen Backhouse and committee chair Eddy De Gabriele from Edmen Group - were reappointed for a second term.

This year the Crown St Mall revitalisation, the Shell Cove boat harbour and Southern Community Hub and Youth Foyer are the three projects being considered for funding through Regional Development Australia.

Second-round applications for these projects close on February 15 and Mr Crean will announce successful projects in mid-to-late May.