- Published:
- Tuesday 12 January 2016
Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford will today chair the first meeting of the Rural and Regional Committee, which will give Victoria’s regions a direct pathway into State Government decision-making.
Meeting in Bendigo with the two other members of the committee, Minister for Employment Jacinta Allan and the Special Minister of State, Gavin Jennings, Minister Pulford said the new approach will enhance regional leadership and give regional communities stronger connections with government.
The Rural and Regional Committee has been established to hear from the nine new Regional Partnerships about the issues and priorities raised by each region.
The Partnerships will build on the work of existing regional leadership and advocacy groups, looking at the strategic priorities communities have identified– across economic, social and environmental issues – and oversee implementation of the top priorities.
The Rural and Regional Committee will meet predominantly in rural and regional Victoria and will give each Regional Partnership the opportunity to present their priorities and engage with the committee in a local setting.
This new approach recognises that every region is different, and that government needs to change how it operates to respond to the needs of our rural and regional communities – not the other way around.
Following the Committee meeting today, the Ministers will meet with leaders from the region, including City of Bendigo CEO Craig Nieman, Buloke Shire CEO John Hicks, and Loddon Mallee RDA Chair Linda Beilharz to discuss implementation of Regional Partnerships in the Loddon Campaspe and Mallee regions.
Quote attributable to the Minister to the Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“We said we would bring regional Victoria to the heart of government, and this committee will deliver on that. This is about making regional Victoria a better place to live, work and play. We want to give each region the chance to build on its strengths and tackle the issues that matter most.”
Quote attributable to the Minister for Employment Jacinta Allan
“Through the Rural and Regional Committee, we will hear from each region about its priorities to support the jobs and skill-development that underpin their communities.”
Quote attributable to the Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings
“With this new model, we can ensure all ministerial portfolios across government – from education to transport, health, justice and planning – are addressing rural and regional problems, with a strong focus on creating jobs and tackling disadvantage.”