Economic growth key for regional development

Economic development, an innovative and skilled workforce and growing export markets were just some of the opportunities highlighted in the CEDA State of the Regions series report, released today.

  • Report highlights economic growth opportunities for WA's regions

  • Liberal National Government's regional development agenda focused on building a skilled workforce and creating jobs 

Economic development, an innovative and skilled workforce and growing export markets were just some of the opportunities highlighted in the CEDA State of the Regions series report, released today.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman launched the report at the CEDA State of the Regions Series: Regional development in Western Australia event. 

The report is the culmination of a two-year regional event series held by CEDA in each of the nine regions across the State.

"The final report captures the key findings and outcomes of the series and outlines an action plan for capitalising on opportunities to ensure sustainable, long-term growth for our regions," Mr Redman said.

"CEDA's State of the Regions series has generated robust discussion on development and growth opportunities within WA's regional economies. 

"The series has also provided the nine regional development commissions with a platform to outline the growth and development aspirations mapped out in their Regional Investment Blueprints."

The Minister also outlined a strategic approach to building vibrant regions with strong economies, with the release of the Regional Development Strategy 2016-2025.

"Our regions are vital drivers of the State's economy, contributing more than one-third of WA's economic activity and 95 per cent of the State's exports," he said.

"As WA's economy transitions, regional development is uniquely positioned to help broaden the economy through a focus on jobs and growth.

"The Regional Development Strategy provides a framework to prioritise and progress the development opportunities with the most potential emerging from blueprints and other sources."

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