The Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) has emphasised the economic potential of Australia’s northern regions as a key item on the policy agendas of all three levels of government.
LGAQ chief executive Greg Hallam welcomed the Abbott Government’s push to produce a White Paper on Northern Australia in the next 12 months, saying it would complement the work of both the Queensland Government and local councils to unshackle the state’s regional economies from over regulation.
He said any policy reform arising from the white paper would bolster the push to have half of Queensland’s population living outside the state’s metropolitan southeast corner within 30 years.
“The strengths of northern Australia will only be fully realised through reform of government regulations, better infrastructure and more productive use of the region’s natural assets.”
Mr Hallam said he was pleased the terms of reference for the white paper emphasised the benefits of growth driven by private sector investment, including in indigenous communities and that this strong commitment from the Federal Government will ensure the region’s future.
