Public forums in Geraldton & Meekatharra to outline key directions of draft Regional Development Policy

16/7/99
Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan has begun an extensive tour of regional areas to consult with residents about the State Government's draft Regional Development Policy, which was released for public comment on July 7.
Mr Cowan will attend public forums in Geraldton and Meekatharra on July 21 to outline the key directions of the draft policy and answer questions from local residents.
Copies of the policy will be available at the forums and are also available from the Department of Commerce and Trade on Freecall 1800 628 767.
Western Australia has not previously had a comprehensive policy outlining the principles of regional development, and Mr Cowan said it was an important step for the state.
"Once it is finalised, the policy will guide the Government's approach to the future development of regional areas," he said.
"That makes it essential that regional people are closely involved in the development process to ensure the policy truly reflects their needs and aspirations."
The draft document contains 87 strategies to maximise regional development opportunities and make real improvements in living standards and opportunities for families and businesses.
"The policy covers a wide range of issues from service delivery to employment opportunities, from business support to funding for community projects," Mr Cowan said.
"These things go well beyond economics and will impact on all of us, so it is very important that people from all sectors of the community become involved and submit their comments."
The draft policy is open for public comment until September 3.

• the Geraldton forum will be held at 7.30am at the Entertainment Centre in Urch Street; and -
• the Meekatharra forum will be at 12.30pm at the Meekatharra Shire Hall in Savage Street.