- Published:
- Monday 16 May 2016
The Andrews Labor Government has welcomed the launch of the Central Highlands Regional Investment Plan which will put the focus firmly on Victoria’s regions – prioritising what matters most to their communities.
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford today joined representatives from the Central Highlands Council’s Victoria (CHC) at the Provincial Hotel in Ballarat to officially launch the Plan.
The CHC is an alliance of seven central Victorian councils including; Ararat Rural City, City of Ballarat, Golden Plains Shire, Hepburn Shire Council, Moorabool Shire Council, Northern Grampians Shire and Pyrenees Shire Council.
The Plan provides details of the highest priority projects which are critical for capturing opportunities and addressing the challenges faced by the region.
The Plan presents 16 projects, allocated within five strategic priority areas:
- Growing our food and fibre industries
- Connecting our economy
- Enhancing our social fabric and well-being
- Securing our future through renewable energy
- Strengthening our visitor economy
It has been designed to complement other relevant regional and local plans and aligns closely with the key growth industries in the region identified by the Labor Government.
It presents a united view of the seven municipalities, which represent a significant regional population of more than 200,000 people. It demonstrates the region’s ability to collaborate, which will be a key strength in the Government’s new Regional Partnerships.
The Labor Government is getting on with establishing nine new Regional Partnerships to direct local priorities straight into the heart of government decision making.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“We recognise that each region is different, and through our Regional Partnerships we will ensure decisions and investments reflect the priorities of each region’s local families, workers and businesses.”
“Central Highlands Councils Victoria is to be congratulated for working so collaboratively on issues and advocating for projects that will transform the region by driving growth, creating jobs and building strong communities.”
“The Central Highlands Regional Investment Plan is a great example of how the region has brought together all levels of government, industry and community.”