Launch of plans for Bentley technology precinct

Plans to create a technology precinct with the Bentley Technology Park and Curtin University at its hub were launched today by Deputy Premier Ian Taylor.

In presenting the Technology and Industry Advisory Council of Western Australia's Bentley Technology Precinct study during breakfast at the Technology Centre, Mr Taylor said it opened the door for what could be a unique project.

"Establishing a technology precinct would mean creating more and closer lines of communication between the facilities and departments already there and encouraging new ventures to come into the area," Mr Taylor said.

"The area already lends itself to a project of this kind - it has the potential to be unique to Australia."

The proposed precinct would include diverse existing facilities such as the Curtin University, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Conservation and Land Management, the WA Herbarium, the Karawarra shopping centre, the Baptist Theological College, Kent Street High School, Penrhos College, the Ngala Family Resource Centre, Swan Cottage retirement homes and sporting facilities.

Mr Taylor said the existing Bentley Technology Park, opened in 1985, provided an excellent base on which to build.

"The Bentley Technology Park already includes some 53 businesses and the area attracts a daily population second only to that of the Perth Central Business District," Mr Taylor said.

"The concept of a technology precinct would awaken a sleeping giant - and what a beneficial giant for WA in terms of expertise and technological advancement that would be," he said.

The idea evolved from a joint program between the Technology and Industry Advisory Council and the Kent Street Senior High School in 1990.

The precinct would:

·         facilitate technology transfer and productive interaction between people and organisations in the precinct;

·         provide an exemplary 'shop window' into WA's technological, research and educational capabilities close to Perth;

·         build a new style of urban community to overcome the traditional division of activities.

"The report sees the Bentley Technology Park has having a unique dimension not possessed by other technology parks - that is social and community interaction and participation," Mr Taylor said.

The Deputy Premier said the precinct had received enthusiastic support from the Department of State Development as well as Curtin University and the Technology Park Advisory Committee.

The report would be open to public comment until November 30 with copies available from TIAC on 470 3666.