Regional communities will be asked to contribute to a revamped regional development policy to be crafted by the Coalition Government this year.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said the policy will set out a long term vision for regional Australia.
“Grassroots input is central to our plans and over the coming months, Assistant Minister Michael McCormack will travel across the nation to talk to a diverse range of local community leaders, regional businesses, academic institutions and regional Australians.
“These discussions will put regional communities, including Indigenous communities, firmly in the driver’s seat by focusing on growing opportunities through nurturing innovation and investing in infrastructure.”
Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said that ongoing dialogue and partnerships with regional communities are crucial as the Australian economy responds to change.
“The Australian Government has invested heavily in the future of our regions, including our record $50 billion infrastructure programme with projects specifically targeting productivity improvements and creating regional jobs.
“During these discussions, I will be outlining existing government programmes and how they can benefit regional areas, as well as engaging local communities to see examples and hear ideas on how we can improve policy settings to make our regions even stronger.
Mr Truss said regional Australia’s creativity and agility will help capitalise on the ideas boom.
“I know that the spirit of regional Australia and the innovation we are capable of will contribute to vibrant and positive futures for our local communities.”
Mr McCormack will begin his series of meetings in the coming weeks with the first visits planned for Tasmania and Western Australia.
