Western Australia's nine SuperTowns are set for the next phase of development with the endorsement of their Growth Plans by the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC).
Attending the launch of Northam's Growth Plan today, Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the finalisation of the plans and their subsequent endorsement was a major milestone for the $85.5million SuperTowns program.
"The WAPC endorsement solidifies SuperTowns as a key initiative in WA's regional development and demonstrates the value of a whole-of-government approach to planning," Mr Grylls said.
"The plans were developed in consultation with local and surrounding communities, agencies across government and the private sector and the support of the WAPC is a strong signal that we're on the right path to building sustainable communities.
"Endorsement of the plans builds on the towns' progress and gives them momentum to further develop their communities and capitalise on investment and growth opportunities."
Planning Minister John Day said under the State Government Royalties for Regions program, more than $5million had been allocated for 2011-12 to assist with strategic growth planning in the nine SuperTown communities that had been chosen.
"Some towns in the south of the State have undergone rapid and sustained change in recent decades and the SuperTowns strategy provides a big picture view for the future," Mr Day said
"The challenge is to assist these communities to grow in terms of population, vibrancy and liveability, through employment creation initiatives, as well as creating new commercial and industrial opportunities."
The SuperTowns program offers opportunities for people choosing to live in these towns and is expected to stimulate investment and employment opportunities to drive growth.
Fact File
Regional Centres Development (SuperTowns) Plan announced July 2011
SuperTowns initiative has received $85.5million in RfR funding
Nine SuperTowns are: Boddington, Collie, Esperance, Jurien Bay, Katanning, Manjimup, Margaret River, Morawa and Northam
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 5500
Planning Minister's office - 6552 6200
