Members of Regional Cities Victoria (RCV) recently met with Premier Dennis Naphthine, with the role of regional Victoria in the State’s prosperity top of the agenda.
RCV Chairman Mark Byatt said the meeting was the group’s first opportunity to speak directly with the new Premier about how RCV can provide solutions to Victoria’s growth challenges.
“RCV is delighted that the Premier chose to retain the Regional Cities portfolio in addition to his new role as Premier.”
Councillor Byatt said the Premier’s commitment to RCV underlined the significance of regional Victoria as a driver of prosperity across the state.
“Job creation is critical for sustainable and liveable regional communities and there are a lot of positive employment stories in our regional cities.
“We look forward to working with the government as we continue to plan for the continued influx of residents to regional Victoria.”
City of Greater Geelong Mayor Keith Fagg said Geelong would play a critical role in the growth of Victoria.
“As Melbourne reaches the limits of sustainable growth Greater Geelong will play an increasingly important role at state level, becoming in effect, Victoria’s second capital.
“Greater Geelong has enjoyed higher than average population growth in recent years due to its economic diversity and its lifestyle — we have many natural advantages and are backing these up with a proactive approach to attracting additional investment and new residents.
“Sustainable growth depends on the activation of regional cities and we will continue to work with the Victorian Government to ensure that regions such as ours achieve their share of infrastructure funding.”
Regional Cities Victoria comprises the 10 largest cities outside Metropolitan Melbourne.
