Survey to identify Peel expansion opportunities

20/06/07
The State Government has agreed to help fund a survey to identify business and commercial trends in the Mandurah and Peel region.
Industry and Enterprise Minister Francis Logan said a key outcome of the survey would be to identify the feasibility of establishing a 'technology park' or 'technology hub' in the region, based on existing and emerging capabilities.
Mr Logan said the survey would be sent to all businesses in the region to identify the current commercial climate, as well as options to expand and concentrate key industries.
The Minister also said that the Carpenter Government was diversifying the Western Australian economy beyond the current resources boom by building strong capabilities in the areas of biotechnology, ICT, renewable energy and marine and defence.
"The survey findings will help us determine whether the region could be the home of the development of a technology park that could specialise in one of these areas," he said.
"Technology parks draw together technology-based industry, research and academia in one dynamic environment that allows businesses of all stages to share knowledge, leverage skills and strengthen capabilities."
Peel Minister and Mandurah MLA David Templeman said the survey would identify options for the region's future expansion, as well as the types of businesses and industries that are currently operating in the area.
"The survey will identify our areas of strength, our prominent industries and what we need to work on in terms of a sustainable economic future for the region," Mr Templeman said.
"A key outcome of the survey will allow us to recognise the obstacles for businesses and how the State Government can support and work with business to ensure continued growth in the region.
"Mandurah and Peel are young areas that have had rapid expansion in the past few years and this survey will allow us to take stock and see just what the region has achieved and what it has to offer.
"I encourage all businesses in the region to take part."

The survey is a joint project between the City of Mandurah, Peel Chamber of Commerce, the Peel Development Commission and the Department of Industry and Resources.
Minister's office - 9222 8950