Those living and working in the Great South Coast are being encouraged to continue their conversation with the Andrews Labor Government, with community consultation kicking off today ahead of the Great South Coast Regional Assembly to be held in Portland on 12 October 2017.
The Labor Government established nine Regional Partnerships last July to enable communities to have their say on local matters and provide a direct voice into government decision-making.
In 2016, the top priorities identified for the Great South Coast Regional Partnership included:
- securing a strong and diverse regional economy with more local jobs
- ensuring a liveable community with strong health, education and training services; better roads and transport and improved digital connectivity
- celebrating the region’s renowned environment, culture and iconic landscapes.
The Great South Coast Regional Partnership has already started seeing the results of its hard work with $1 million announced to continue Beyond the Bell, a program to boost educational attainment. The region will also share in the $45 million Connecting Regional Communities Program to support digital initiatives.
The Government also recently announced funding for the Warrnambool line to upgrade track and signalling; road upgrades in the region including those servicing the Port of Portland and the Princes and Henty highways; and $7.5 million for the design for Stage 2 redevelopment of South West Healthcare.
This year’s Regional Assembly will give the community a chance to build on the momentum already gained and to share thoughts about what will make the biggest difference to living in the Great South Coast Region. The Great South Coast Regional Partnership includes the City of Warrnambool, Glenelg Shire, Southern Grampians Shire, Moyne Shire and Corangamite Shire.
Register to attend the Assembly or become part of the conversation online at
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Regional Development Jacinta Allan
“With well over 1,300 people across the state so far attending 2017’s Regional Assemblies, we are ready to unleash the best ideas for our Great South Coast region and hear what really matters most to locals.”
“Engage in person at Portland, or have your say online and help shape the future of the Great South Coast.”
Quote attributable to the Great South Coast Regional Partnership Chair Emily Lee-Ack
“The second Great South Coast Regional Assembly, and our online survey, are an excellent opportunity for members of the community to have their say about priorities for our region.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“From Colac to Portland and everywhere in between, we’re keen to hear your views, ideas and aspirations about what makes living, working and visiting our Great South Coast so great. This is our last Assembly of 2017 – let’s make it the best!”
Reviewed 19 August 2020