The Federal Government’s framework for developing Australia’s regions for the next decade was unveiled by the Government on 29 August.
With the statement Stronger Regions, A Stronger Australia the Federal Government seeks a partnership which fosters the development of self reliant regions through:
- Regional communities leading their own development, managing the change required in achieving the interests of the nation, and realising their own potential.
- The Federal Government supporting new ideas, self reliance and achievement, supporting community plans and aspirations.
- The private sector – large national corporations and local businesses – taking an active role in communities and their development.
Stronger Regions, A Stronger Australia builds on the spending of $28.5 billion in rural and regional Australia since 1996 in addition to money being spent nationally in areas like health and education.
The Federal Government will work with regional communities to:
- strengthen regional economic and social opportunities;
- sustain our productive natural resources and the environment;
- deliver better regional services; and
- adjust to economic, technological and government induced change.
Key elements of the vision include a $115 million Stronger Regions Programme which will help regions undergoing significant structural and other changes with targeted assistance to specific areas of need. A Regional Business Development Analysis will analyse regional development needs and identify impediments to growth.
The Federal Government also announced that it would further reduce the cost of AQIS inspection fees for export commodities by 40%.
In a move to ensure the interests of regional communities were fully and appropriately addressed there will be changes to the National Competition Policy (NCP) to strengthen the current public interest criteria. The Government will also embark on a programme to ensure widespread awareness and access to Government assistance.
The statement is a response to the feedback provided by regional community consultation processes such as the Regional Australia Summit and the Northern Australia Forum. Stronger Regions, A Stronger Australia recognises that a thriving nation needs growing and vibrant regions to reach its potential.
For more information about Stronger Regions, A Stronger Australia, or Commonwealth Government programmes and services available to people in Australia’s regions: call 1800 026 222 (freecall) or visit our website at www.regionalaustralia.gov.au/regional/statement/.
