Launch of scheme to help people in regions acquire leadership skills

4/8/96

People living in regional areas of Western Australia will have an opportunity to learn leadership skills under a new State Government program.

The first Foundations for Leadership Residential Program, which was launched by Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan in York today, will target individuals who live and work in the Wheatbelt region of WA.

If the four-day Wheatbelt course generates a high level of interest, it will be repeated in other WA regions.

The Department of Commerce and Trade has been involved in establishing the new program to provide leadership development skills to emerging regional leaders.

The program is a joint initiative with the Minister for Primary Industry, the Centre for Agribusiness Marketing at Muresk and the Wheatbelt Development Commission.

Foundations for Leadership is one element in a major rural leadership scheme to be unveiled by Primary Industry Minister Monty House later in the week. 

Components of the course include skill development in areas such as strategic planning, conflict resolution, media relations, public speaking, communication, facilitation, group dynamics and community analysis.

Mr Cowan said the future of WA's rural communities and industries was dependent upon the degree of energy, commitment and local leadership skills that could be generated in the regions.

"This program is a direct response to that need," he said.

 "It seeks to capture and enhance the talents of our potential and emerging leaders and provide them with the professional and personal skills to inspire their local communities and lead them into the future.

"The residential program will give participants the opportunity to extend their networks and develop new partnerships with people from a diverse range of communities, enterprises and industry sectors and to develop their new leadership skills in a challenging and stimulating environment.

"It is hoped those who participate will become closely involved in activities relating to the development of their local community or rural industry."

It is envisaged that the program will be supported by the private sector and become self-funding by 1998.

Media contact: Peter Jackson 222 9595