New members have been appointed to Victoria’s nine Regional Partnerships, giving rural and regional communities a direct voice to the Andrews Labor Government to aid the growth and recovery of our regions.
Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas today welcomed more than 150 new, re-appointed and continuing Regional Partnership committee members.
The Government established Regional Partnerships in 2016 across each part of the state in recognition that local communities are best placed to understand their region’s challenges and opportunities, and to present priorities to the Labor Government.
In the short time since they were established the Regional Partnerships have achieved valuable outcomes for their communities, including the Wimmera Southern Mallee’s award-winning early years project BY FIVE, the Mallee’s campaign for Victoria’s Cross Border Commissioner and Barwon’s role in securing the Geelong City Deal.
The value of the Partnerships was demonstrated as the Government responded to the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic. Insights and evidence from the Partnership’s roundtables held last year highlighted specific issues and impacts of the pandemic on country communities and how to seize the opportunities to recover.
Regional Partnership members reflect the diversity of Victoria’s regions. This includes more Aboriginal Victorian members and greater female representation, with women making up 62 per cent of the business and community representatives.
Regional Partnerships are made up of community and business leaders, senior local and state government officers, and Regional Development Australia committee members.
Regional Partnerships are based at Barwon, Central Highlands, Gippsland, Goulburn, Great South Coast, Loddon Campaspe, Ovens Murray, Mallee and Wimmera Southern Mallee regions.
To see the full list of Regional Partnership members, visit .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Mary-Anne Thomas
“The Regional Partnerships are incredibly important to the Government and the communities they serve – giving locals a direct way to advise on the issues that matter most to them will continue to help get what they need.”
“I look forward to working closely with the Partnerships to deliver new and exciting projects for regional Victoria.”
Quote attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green
“I congratulate the newly appointed and returning committee members, who each show great commitment and leadership in their local communities.”
Reviewed 01 March 2021