Community leaders from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to help shape the future of their community, with positions across the Victorian Government’s nine Regional Partnerships now open.
Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes today announced the recruitment drive, appealing for people from all walks of life to apply for a role with the Regional Partnerships.
The Government established the Regional Partnerships in 2016. Past Regional Partnerships have achieved strong outcomes for their communities, securing support for important, locally-driven projects across areas like tourism, digital connectivity, mental health, agriculture and much more.
One of the social outcomes of the Partnerships includes the Wimmera Southern Mallee’s BY FIVE initiative. BY FIVE aims to improve health and education outcomes for children by the time they reach the age of five. In 2019, the initiative won a Victorian Early Years Award for Continuity of Early Learning.
In the south west, the advocacy by the Barwon and Great South Coast regional partnerships helped to secure the $370 million Geelong City Deal, which will unlock the tourism and economic potential of Geelong and the Great Ocean Road region.
In north-eastern Victoria, various ideas aimed to revitalise towns like Seymour and support local producers through the “Buy from North East Victoria” online store.
The nine Partnerships will play an integral role in regional Victoria’s economic and social rebuild from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and the recent bushfires, identifying ways to create jobs and and strengthen the liveability of country towns.
The Government is encouraging experienced and emerging leaders of all ages and backgrounds to apply, including Aboriginal Victorians, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with a disability and LGBTIQ community members.
The term of appointment for new members will run until 31 December 2024. Applications close Thursday, 1 October. For more information on each Regional Partnership and to apply for a position, visit .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes
“Country communities know what they need and how to deliver that – it makes sense that they drive regional Victoria’s economic and social recovery, taking that voice straight to government through the Partnerships.”
“To be on a Partnership for this term is a chance like no other – it’s an opportunity to make towns even better and stronger for generations to come.”
Quote attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green
“Partnership members will find themselves surrounded by dynamic leaders in their region. It’s a great opportunity to work with like-minded people, build leadership skills and to give back to the community.”
Reviewed 01 September 2020