An independent review into regional economic development and services outlining 61 recommendations spanning transport, planning, industry policy, investment, trade, skills and education was today delivered to the Andrews Labor Government.
The delivery of the Review into Regional Economic Development and Services final report follows four months of extensive consultation by the independent External Advisory Board. The Board was chaired by the former Premier John Brumby and supported by regional business and community leaders from across Victoria.
Accepting the Board’s final report today, Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford, thanked the Board members for their work and committed to releasing the report in full as part of a comprehensive, whole-of-government response to be delivered by October.
With a focus on driving economic growth in regional Victoria, the report proposes a new way for government to work in the regions, recommending changes to governance and service delivery that would amplify regional Victoria’s voice in government decision-making.
The report presents an opportunity for the Labor Government to develop a comprehensive whole-of-government response to the Review, paving the way for generations of prosperity in regional Victoria.
A future-focused, whole-of-government response will provide a strong foundation for the Labor Government to create jobs and drive growth and investment to deliver better outcomes for regional and rural Victorians.
The Review has been supported by extensive consultations and stakeholder input. A total of 95 submissions were received, 74 interviews with senior business and community leaders were undertaken, and there were 15 presentations by different representative bodies including the Victorian Farmers Federation and local government.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford
“I want to thank the former Premier and Chair of the External Advisory Board, John Brumby, Board members, and members of the public that made submissions and presentations, attended workshops, and were interviewed throughout this process.”
“The Labor Government’s response to the Review and its recommendations will ensure we maximise the untapped potential of regional Victoria, boosting growth, investment and development across a range of portfolio areas from transport, planning, and industry policy to trade, skills and education.”
Quotes attributable to Regional Review Chair, the Hon John Brumby
“The scale and pace of global change – from the rise of Asia, to rapid evolutions in technology – present unparalleled opportunities for regional and rural Victoria.”
“Our report makes 61 recommendations across a range of portfolio areas to best position Victoria to capitalise on these great opportunities.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020