VICTORIA'S REGIONAL STATEMENT - YOUR VOICE, YOUR REGION, YOUR STATE.
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VICTORIA’S REGIONAL STATEMENT YOUR VOICE, YOUR REGION, YOUR STATE.
Photography Credits: Page 26. Lake Condah Page 28. Castlemaine State Festival Opening Night (2013) Photo: Michael Nix Page 60. A Local Elder Participating in the Community Performance for the Shepparton Festival in 2013 Photo: Speed Shop Photography Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this document may contain images or names of people who may have passed away since the time of publishing. This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. You should seek appropriately qualified advice before making any decisions regarding your particular project. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place Melbourne November 2015 © Copyright State of Victoria 2015 Except for any logos, emblems, trademarks, artwork and photography this document is made available under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Australia licence. This document is also available in PDF and accessible Word format at www.ecodev.vic.gov.au.
CONTENTS PREMIER’S MESSAGE 6 MINISTER’S MESSAGE 7 PUTTING GOVERNMENT BACK TO WORK FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA 8 REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS 12 The case for change 14 Regional Partnerships: bringing regional priorities to the heart of government 14 Everyone has a role to play 17 Turning ideas into action 18 What does this mean for existing regional leadership groups? 18 What’s next 18 GETTING ON WITH IT IN REGIONAL VICTORIA 20 REGIONAL JOBS FOR A GROWING ECONOMY 24 Funding our future 24 Agriculture 25 Tourism and events 26 Renewable energy 27 Small business 27 Racing 27 Creative industries 27 Water 28 Planning 30 What’s next 30 TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GROWTH 32 Regional rail 32 Regional Network Development Plan 33 Regional buses 33 Freight rail 33 Regional roads 34 Road safety 34 Telecommunications 34 What’s next 35 DELIVERING THE EDUCATION STATE IN REGIONAL VICTORIA 36 Early childhood 36 Schools 37 Skills and training 38 What’s next 39
BETTER HEALTHCARE FOR REGIONAL FAMILIES 40 Improving health in the regions 40 Ambulance 41 Aboriginal health 41 Mental health 42 Children and young people 42 What’s next 43 SAFER REGIONAL COMMUNITIES 44 Family violence 44 Police and emergency services 45 Tackling the ice crisis 46 What’s next 46 PROTECTING THE QUALITY OF LIFE IN OUR REGIONS 48 Environment and climate change 48 Local councils: the backbone of rural and regional communities 49 Sport 49 Aboriginal communities 50 Multicultural communities 50 Equality 50 Women 51 Veterans 51 What’s next 51 REGIONS 52 BARWON 54 CENTRAL HIGHLANDS 56 GIPPSLAND 58 GOULBURN 60 GREAT SOUTH COAST 62 LODDON CAMPASPE 64 MALLEE 66 OVENS MURRAY 68 WIMMERA SOUTHERN MALLEE 70
PREMIER’S MESSAGE
I was raised in regional Victoria. We need to invest more in transport and infrastructure
to make food and fibre more competitive in the overseas
Let me make one thing clear: no government should
markets and regional tourism more accessible to our
ever take the people of regional Victoria for granted.
growing number of tourists. These are two rapidly-growing
Families here deserve a government that works as hard
export sectors and its where regional Victoria’s
as they do, and that’s what this Regional Statement
future lies.
is all about.
It’s also about making regional Victorian cities and
It starts with more jobs, in industries new and old.
communities better places to live. The basics first:
We’ve hit the ground running since coming to office,
Supporting local paramedics, police and emergency
creating more jobs, reducing unemployment,
services. Helping families overcome the plague of
saving Victoria’s TAFE system and establishing the
ice. Working with community groups to embrace the
$500 million Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.
diversity that makes our state great.
This is just the start.
But after all, this is your voice, your region and your
Education is the key to the future of regional Victoria.
state. Governments shouldn’t try to tell you precisely
Instead of cutting funds to our TAFE system, we’re
what you need. They should listen to what you want,
saving it. We’re building the Education State in regional
because you know best. That’s exactly what we’ve
Victoria, delivering the single biggest injection of funds
done, consulting with families and businesses and
to the education system in our state’s history.
councils across Victoria.
More jobs and a better education system mean more
At its heart, this Regional Statement is about more jobs,
opportunities for the next generation. Families shouldn’t
more security and a better start for young people right
have to be forced to watch their kids move away from
across our state. I truly believe that Victoria can’t be the
home just to get a job or start a career. Every young
best place in the world unless its regional communities
person deserves the same chance, no matter where
are the most successful in the nation. So we’re getting
they live.
on with it.
The Hon. Daniel Andrews MP
Premier
6 Victoria’s Regional Statement
MINISTER’S MESSAGE
In February this year, the Government commissioned However, this statement goes well beyond the Review’s
an independent review into Regional Economic focus on economic development and acknowledges
Development and Services (“the Regional Review”), the changes impacting on regional communities and
led by former Victorian Premier, John Brumby. the urgent need to tackle pockets of entrenched
disadvantage and disparity in some parts of Victoria.
We wanted to give regional communities a say about
what matters. We wanted to hear about their hopes It sets a new approach that will change the way
for the future and the role government can play. government works with regional Victorians. We
don’t have all the answers. No government can
I was delighted by the interest, energy and
ever promise that. But we can pledge to ask the
enthusiasm brought to this process.
right questions and consult with as many families,
Throughout the course of the Regional Review, workers and business owners as possible.
almost 700 regional stakeholders provided their
We can promise to work hard and come up with
views. A taskforce was established across the nine
a fair plan for our future – one that gives regional
government departments to develop a co-ordinated
Victorians a real voice and a true sense of ownership
approach to regional policy and governance and
over their future. And that’s what we’ve done.
respond to the Regional Review. And, I chaired
a Ministerial Working Group to consider the It’s a clear way forward that’s about working directly
government’s response. The culmination of this with local communities to build on regional Victoria’s
work is the Regional Statement. strengths and tackle the issues that matter most.
I would particularly like to make mention of the I’m proud to call myself a country Victorian. It’s
dedication and hard work volunteered by each such an exciting time to live and work here, and I
member of the External Advisory Board that look forward to working with you to take up these
oversaw the Regional Review. It was outstanding. opportunities and to secure not only a bright future for
our regional communities and businesses, but also
They travelled all over the state to participate
to deliver the substantial benefits generated for all
in meetings, sought and considered input from
Victorians by a strong and prosperous regional Victoria.
hundreds of individuals, communities and businesses.
The Regional Review has played a key role in the
development of Victoria’s Regional Statement.
The Hon. Jaala Pulford MP
Minister for Regional Development
Victoria’s Regional Statement 7
PUTTING
GOVERNMENT
BACK TO WORK FOR
REGIONAL VICTORIA
8 Victoria’s Regional Statement
Victoria’s Regional Statement 9
PUTTING GOVERNMENT BACK TO
WORK FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA
The Andrews It’s also why the Regional Jobs
and Infrastructure Fund was the
the top priorities on a year-by-year
basis. These will be published
Labor Government first major fund we established on and Partnerships will be publicly
understands the coming to government. accountable for getting things done.
enormous contribution It’s why we asked regional leaders – To support this new approach
including a former Premier – to build we will significantly strengthen
regional Victoria makes on previous Labor Government the seniority of regional executive
to Victoria’s economic strategies for regional Victoria and leadership in Regional Development
undertake an independent Review Victoria (RDV).
strength and way of life. into regional economic development
The Partnerships will recognise that
at the very beginning of this term.
the opportunities and challenges
We understand that every The Review was a very important facing regional communities are
region is different. From dryland step in developing this Statement complex and intertwined, and that
to irrigated farming; and from for regional Victoria. a narrow, sectional view of the
big cities to small towns. From world will not take us where we
economies reliant on food and fibre, The Statement is about creating
need to go.
to tourism, manufacturing and jobs, providing a better start for
natural resources. Some regions are young people, and supporting Partnerships will recognise that
experiencing significant population a brighter future for families government needs to change how
growth, while others are facing and communities. it operates to respond to the needs
population adjustment and decline. of communities, and not the other
The Regional Statement’s
Regional communities have their way around.
centrepiece is the establishment
own character, their own aspirations, of nine new Regional Partnerships Communities have said they want
and their own common sense across the State that will direct a greater say and to see a clearer
understanding of the challenges and regional priorities straight into link with government actions.
opportunities that they face. the heart of government. This Through this Statement we will
We want to put government back will make sure that more than deliver a louder voice for regional
to work for regional Victoria. ever, government is working for communities in government
regional communities. Not those decision-making.
Regional Victoria deserves a with the loudest voices – but the
government that is responsive to The Andrews Labor Government
families, workers and communities
its diverse strengths, opportunities looks forward to working with you
that are the heart and soul of
and aspirations. A government on the next exciting chapter,
regional Victoria.
that acts on local opportunities building stronger, more resilient,
and challenges. The Partnerships will look at and more prosperous rural and
the strategic priorities regional regional communities.
That’s why we took to the election communities have identified
last year a clear commitment to themselves – across economic,
grow jobs in regional Victoria, social and environmental issues –
rebuild schools and reinvigorate and oversee implementation of
communities.
10 Victoria’s Regional StatementRegional development since 1999
The Regional Infrastructure Since its election in 2014, This Statement sets out the next
Development Fund Act 1999 was the Andrews Labor Government steps and flags future directions
the first legislation passed by the has continued to make regional for regional development policy to
Bracks Labor Government. The Act Victoria our priority. Our first budget get government back to work for
was the foundation on which Labor was focused on the skills, jobs regional Victoria.
has continued to build on through and infrastructure investments that
the years. Investing in regional matter to regional Victorian families.
people, in regional infrastructure,
and regional economies.
Rebuilding Moving Forward Regional Strategic Regional Statement:
and restoring (2005–2008) Planning and the Your Voice, Your
confidence Regional Blueprint Region, Your State
(1999–2005) (2008–2010) (2015)
• Regional • Improving industry • Long-term strategic • Embed Regional
Infrastructure competitiveness. approach to Partnerships as core
Development • Skills development. managing growth leadership entities in
Fund – rebuilding and change regional Victoria
• Attracting more
infrastructure, • Development of • Strengthen links
people to live,
developing new integrated regional between regional
work and invest in
facilities and planning planning and State
regional Victoria.
services and Government policy
• Resourcing regional • Empowerment
creating jobs. and budget decisions
communities and of regions to set
• Regional priorities based on • Stronger community
councils to plan
Development local assets and engagement and
for the future,
Victoria – a opportunities investment in regional
improve amenity
dedicated leadership
and community • Place-based
statutory body
well-being; and, approach in • Prioritise jobs,
to facilitate
• Economic recovery State-level education,
regional economic
from natural interventions communities and
development.
disasters. regional infrastructure
Victoria’s Regional Statement 11REGIONAL
PARTNERSHIPS
12 Victoria’s Regional StatementVictoria’s Regional Statement 13
REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
Adapting to change The case for change • Creating opportunities for local
communities and individuals to
through community Through consultation conducted have a greater say about the
participation and during the Regional Review, many issues of importance to them.
regional Victorians said they This is the model that regional
leadership is not didn’t see a clear pathway into Victoria asked for through the
new to rural and government decision-making extensive consultation conducted
for the priorities and problems
regional Victoria. they identified in their
earlier this year as part of the
Regional Review.
Many successful Regional Strategic Plans.
projects have been The Review also noted that there Regional Partnerships:
were some limitations in the
driven by local action. ability of the current governance
bringing regional priorities
arrangements to deliver better to the heart of government
A common ingredient to success is outcomes for regional communities. The Regional Partnerships will bring
a lot of hard work and commitment. This needs to change. together representatives from local
But the people involved have That’s why we have developed a business, education, social services
said that, too often, their hard new approach that will enhance and community groups with the
work doesn’t pay off because regional leadership and give three tiers of government.
government isn’t really listening. regional communities more say and
We want to change that. The new Partnerships will build
build stronger connections with on the work already done by
We genuinely want to hear from government by: existing regional leadership groups,
community about the aspirations • Connecting regional priorities including Regional Strategic Plans.
and goals they have for their regions. and regional investment The work of the Regional
We want people to feel enthusiastic opportunities directly with the Partnerships will encompass all
but also empowered to improve Victorian Government’s these areas. Everyone will have
their region. And we want people decision-making processes. an opportunity to contribute.
to feel confident that the actions • Ensuring all ministerial portfolios
they drive are delivering the results across government – from
they desire. education to transport, health,
To make this happen, we are justice and planning – are
changing the way the Victorian addressing rural and regional
Government works with the regions. problems, with a strong focus
on creating jobs and tackling
disadvantage.
14 Victoria’s Regional StatementEach Regional Partnership will These changes form part of a
communicate directly with a Rural broader shift in thinking across
and Regional Ministerial Committee. government. The public sector
This means that priorities identified is no longer the sole, or even the
by regional areas will have major provider of many services and
a direct and clear pathway into programs that deliver ‘public value’.
the resourcing decisions made
There is knowledge, expertise,
by departments and Ministers.
resources and experience held
The Government will work with
across the public, private and
communities to design new policies
community sectors.
and services. We will also share
more information so more groups People from across these sectors
can contribute to problem-solving. have many shared goals, and we
can maximise our effectiveness
From 1 July 2016, Regional
if we all work together. Regional
Partnerships will be formed in nine
Partnerships will apply this thinking.
regions in rural and regional Victoria.
It’s a fundamental shift.
Boundaries for the nine regions
better reflect the real communities-
of-interest that exist throughout
regional Victoria and will ensure that
decisions and plans made take into
account the aspirations and goals of
each community. The membership
of Regional Partnerships will reflect
this new vision.NINE REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS WILL BE FORMED ACROSS THE STATE
Barwon
Central Highlands
Gippsland
Goulburn
Great South Coast
Mildura
Loddon Campaspe
Swan Hill
Mallee
Ovens Murray
Wimmera Southern Mallee
Yarriambiack
Gannawarra
Local Government Area (LGA)
Buloke Wodonga
Hindmarsh Moira
Campaspe Indigo
Loddon Greater Towong
Shepparton Wangaratta
West Northern Benalla
Wimmera Horsham Grampians Bendigo Strathbogie
Alpine
Mount
Central
Alexander Mitchell
Goldfields
Mansfield
Macedon Murrindindi
Hepburn
Ranges East Gippsland
Southern Ararat Ballarat
Grampians Pyrenees
Moorabool
Glenelg Wellington
Golden Plains Geelong
Baw Baw
Moyne
Surf Latrobe
Corangamite
Coast
Colac Queenscliffe
Otway South
Warrnambool Gippsland
Bass CoastEveryone has a role to play All Ministers and government
departments will have
The Regional Partnerships will ask an interest, and will be visible
communities about their biggest and actively involved.
issues and what matters most.
The membership of Regional
Every Victorian should have the Partnerships will reflect this
opportunity to have their voice new vision.
heard by government, and to
participate in decisions that The Government also recognises
impact their lives. We want to the strategic leadership role that
have a proper conversation with rural and regional councils play in
communities – not just talking, contributing to the prosperity and
but listening. wellbeing of Victoria.
They will use existing networks For local government, the
and build new opportunities for Partnerships will be a new
communities and individuals to vehicle to get things done and to
have a greater say. make sure the diverse needs and
experiences of rural and regional
Annual Summits in each region councils are heard in Melbourne.
will bring a range of local leaders We will work cooperatively with
together – including elected officials local government to address
– to identify priority areas for action. the differences that can arise in
Our goal is to ensure that each service provision by utilising the
region has a strong voice in Regional Partnerships to capitalise
government and that the concerns on local strengths and knowledge
and aspirations of regional through the development of
Victorians are heard and considered shared services and directly
in all major government decisions. informing the government on
region wide priorities.
Victoria’s Regional Statement 17Turning ideas into action means of organising in regional WHAT’S NEXT
Victoria. We thank members of
Interest from locals, a wide range these forums for their participation Through the new Regional
of stakeholders, an active and open and enthusiasm over many years. Partnerships, regional Victorians
process, a channel to the heart of will have:
The Regional Development Australia
government – all this only matters
Committees which operate as • A simple and effective way to
if the results are realised. That’s
critical leadership groups and influence the priorities of their
why the Regional Partnerships
provide a pathway for regional communities – getting the filters
will be open and accountable for
Victoria into the Commonwealth and delays of bureaucracy out of
their work.
Government will work closely the way.
The Partnerships will build on with Regional Partnerships in
• A direct channel to identify new
existing Regional Strategic Plans each region through co-ordinated
opportunities and get them
and, each year, will agree actions support from RDV.
in front of State Government
and outcomes to progress
Other regional leadership, decision makers – giving life
economic and social priorities.
governance or service delivery to the region’s creative and
These will be available publicly and
groups, such as Children entrepreneurial thinkers.
the Partnerships will report on how
and Youth Area Partnerships, • A better way to collaboratively
they are going. Transparency will be
will continue unchanged. solve problems – no more
a key factor for success.
We recognise that a ‘one size fits us and them, these are our
problems to solve.
What does this mean for all’ approach often doesn’t work.
We will continue to work with • A greater influence on the
existing regional leadership regional leaders before any changes decisions that affect their lives.
groups? are bedded down to ensure the
In part this will be achieved by
plans and boundaries in each
Partnerships will build on and bringing communities closer to
region are the best fit for each
complement existing regional Victorian Government decision
local community.
leadership groups and will form makers, including the Premier
relationships with relevant groups Expressions of Interest to be part of and Ministers, through the new
in each region in whatever way the Partnerships will open in early governance arrangements and
works best. 2016. Information sessions will be transparent consultation.
held in the New Year, but for further
Regional Partnerships will replace
information, contact your local
Regional Management Forums as
RDV office.
the Victorian Government’s primary
18 Victoria’s Regional StatementThe new Regional Partnerships will be tasked with undertaking meaningful engagement with their communities – not just elected officials, community leaders or the loudest voices. The onus will then be on the Government to respond quickly and report back to communities on the progress of medium and longer term matters. Supporting this new approach will be a program of face to face and online activity to ensure each of the new regions has the opportunity to engage directly with the Premier and other members of the Cabinet on issues the community identifies as important.
GETTING
ON WITH IT IN
REGIONAL VICTORIA
20 Victoria’s Regional StatementVictoria’s Regional Statement 21
GETTING ON WITH IT IN
REGIONAL VICTORIA
Our regions are Regional population growth is
a great vote of confidence in
• Changes to the way government
works with regional Victorians
an integral part of the quality of life that regional to determine and implement
Victoria’s culture and Victoria offers. Population growth, regional priorities.
if managed well, can bring • Growing the food and fibre,
economy – in many significant opportunities through and tourism sectors, including
ways, the most integral new skills and economic activity. by attracting investment into
part. That’s what this For these reasons, this plan reflects the visitor economy and adding
more value to primary products
our aim for strong regional growth,
Regional Statement is but in a way that preserves and and services.
all about. strengthens the unique qualities • Improvements to the productivity
of our regional communities. of the road and rail network
Equally it recognises the complex to benefit regional producers,
The Andrews Labor Government is and dynamic nature of the and better access to ICT in
committed to delivering the services unique challenges facing rural regional areas.
and infrastructure that regional and regional Victoria.
Victorians need to prosper. • Expanding access to early
The independent Regional childhood education, and
Work is already underway on Economic Development and stronger pathways from
hundreds of projects to address Services Review (‘the Regional school to work.
these needs, and more are on Review’) was developed with • Stronger, place-based
the way. extensive whole-of-government approaches to addressing
We want to be a government for input, and was the product of disadvantage.
all Victorians. A government that significant stakeholder consultation
This Regional Statement takes
listens, responds and gets on with it. across business, community and
into account the recommendations
local government.
This Statement for regional of the Review and the views
Victoria outlines our priorities, The Regional Review contains of stakeholders. It also provides
policies and projects funded so far. 61 recommendations to drive an overview of the significant work
The Statement also details our regional economic growth, underway across government to
vision for a new, more collaborative including: invest in services and policies for
approach to regional government. the benefit of the regions.
22 Victoria’s Regional StatementSince coming to office, we’ve
developed new plans and invested
in regional cities and communities.
We’re proud of that, but it can’t
end here.
Every Victorian deserves access to
high quality government services,
wherever they live and whatever
their personal circumstances.
And we want to work with regional
and rural businesses to create jobs
and drive growth.
The following section of the
Regional Statement details how
we are getting on with it.
Further information on these and
other government initiatives in
regional Victoria can be found at
www.regions.vic.gov.au
Victoria’s Regional Statement 23REGIONAL JOBS FOR
A GROWING ECONOMY
The regional Victorian The Andrews Labor Government
wants to ensure our regions are
Funding our future
economy was worth made up of strong communities. The $500 million Regional
$66.9 billion in 2014 For communities to thrive regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund
Victorians need access to good (RJIF) is growing jobs, building
and is responsible local jobs. infrastructure and strengthening
for about a third of Victoria’s economy would be
communities throughout regional
Victoria. As a dedicated regional
Victoria’s $36 billion nothing without our regions.
development fund, RJIF addresses
From food, fibre and wine to
export trade. Over tourism, innovation and renewable
key challenges and opportunities
to unlock regional Victoria’s
650,000 regional energy, it’s where the traditional
growth potential.
and the new come together.
Victorians are
RJIF is complemented by other
employed across The way we work and the things
we produce in regional Victoria statewide funds that focus on
the State. are changing. Back in 2005, jobs and growth:
manufacturing was the largest • The $508 million Premier’s Jobs
employing industry in regional and Investment Fund will drive
Victoria. It is now fourth, behind economic growth, create stable
healthcare, agriculture and retail. jobs in Victoria and help foster
Government and local communities new, innovative businesses.
need to work together to deliver • The $200 million Future
the projects and services that will Industries Fund will support the
bring more jobs and families to six high-growth industries that
regional Victoria, so businesses will define our economic future,
can maximise opportunities including food and fibre and new
and succeed. energy technology.
• The $100 million Back to Work
Scheme will give businesses an
incentive to hire unemployed
youth and the long-term
unemployed. It’s a real plan to
reduce youth unemployment.
24 Victoria’s Regional Statement• The $200 million Agriculture Agriculture • Supported our fruit growers
Infrastructure and Jobs Fund to export through the global
will drive growth, create jobs Agriculture and farming families, Now! In Season promotion –
and boost exports from paddock firms and workers are at the heart a joint initiative with Austrade
to port.1 We will work with the of rural and regional Victoria. and industry to promote our
Victorian Farmers’ Federation In 2014-15, Victoria’s food and citrus, table grapes, stone fruit,
and other regional stakeholders fibre exports reached a record apples and pears.
as we design and roll out $12 billion. We want to ensure
• Invested in the projects that
the fund. Victorian exports continue to grow
underpin farming jobs, such
and that regional businesses have
as irrigated water, ICT and
the best access to global markets,
Sovereign Hill by day particularly in the Asian region.
safer rural roads and bridges.
and night Producers and councils will be
That’s why we have:
able to share in $200 million of
More than half a million people • Established the $20 million funding for these projects from
visit Sovereign Hill each year. Food Source Victoria program, the Agriculture Infrastructure and
Sovereign Hill contributes to help agri-food businesses Jobs Fund.2
more than $228 million of work together to grow exports,
economic activity each year to • Begun growing the next
create new jobs and promote generation of farmers, producers,
Ballarat and Victoria, creating their unique products to
and sustaining 1422 full-time, exporters and innovators
the world. through the Upskill and Invest
casual and part-time jobs. The
• Kicked off our program of Young Farmers Scholarship
Andrews Labor Government’s
inbound trade missions to program and the Young Farmers
$8 million commitment to
regional Victoria connecting Ministerial Advisory Council.
upgrade the Sovereign Hill by
global buyers with our
day and by night will further
best regional producers.
boost Sovereign Hill as a
Just recently, we hosted
driver of economic growth
visits by 150 international
and tourism. The project
buyers from Asia, Europe
will create a new sound and
and the Middle East to Victoria’s
light show night experience,
21 wine regions, followed by
enhanced play space and
Food and Beverage Trade Week,
indigenous areas, a new
hosting over 240 international
costume school and a 32-bed
buyers and investors,
accommodation facility.
to sample our world class
food and beverages.
1,2 The Agriculture Infrastructure and Jobs
Fund is subject to the successful passage of
the Delivering Victorian Infrastructure (Port of
Melbourne Lease Transaction) Bill 2015.
Victoria’s Regional Statement 25Tourism and events The Government will also invest • Enhanced marine infrastructure
$3 million to embark on an with $13.5 million allocated for
Victoria has the best of everything. ambitious regional marketing the Portarlington Safe Harbour
Regional Victoria attracts over campaign, highlighting regional Development.
13 million domestic and over Victoria’s treasures and showcasing • Committed $1 million to develop
400,000 international visitors our regions. the Harcourt Mountain Bike Park.
each year and its tourism and
A new Ministerial Advisory
events industry already generates
Committee will work closely
110,000 jobs each year, but we Budj Bim
with industry experts in fields
want to grow tourism across
such as international education, Aboriginal culture and heritage
regional Victoria by stimulating
arts and culture, and sport to also presents a growing
new investment, improving the
develop an action plan to attract regional tourism opportunity,
visitor experience and helping
tourism investment and visitors to opening up new prospects for
with marketing and product
regional Victoria. generating jobs and income
development.
That’s why we are supporting for regional and Indigenous
The new Brand Victoria will communities. For example,
investment in appropriate nature-
showcase what our state has to Budj Bim in Victoria’s south-
based tourism that helps Victoria
offer, selling our cultural diversity, west hosts the only remains
to preserve and protect our natural
world-class events, natural of Aboriginal stone houses
environment while enabling people
attractions and landscapes and found in Australia, as well
to visit and enjoy our wonderful
diverse regions to Australia and as a sophisticated system
natural landscapes. We have also:
the world. of channels, fish traps and
• Provided $19 million from the weirs used for farming eels.
Following the Visitor Economy
RJIF to complete stages two That’s why the Government
Review, we have created Visit
and three of the 145 kilometre has recommended Budj Bim
Victoria and tasked it with driving
Grampians Peaks Trail, expected as Victoria’s number one
tourism and events across the
to create 35 full-time jobs and priority for UNESCO World
State. Bringing together Tourism
boost the local economy by Heritage listing. If successful,
Victoria and the Victorian Major
$6.4 million each year. Budj Bim will be the first place
Events Company and a new
conventions division, the new entity • Invested $25 million to revive to be recognised in Australia
aims to grow regional Victoria’s the Ballarat Station precinct to for exclusively Aboriginal
$11 billion visitor economy. revitalise Ballarat’s CBD into a cultural values.
commercial and cultural hub.
Visit Victoria will have a distinct The redevelopment includes
Regional Division, with its own a proposed hotel and
General Manager, designed to convention centre.
work directly with Regional Tourism
• Provided $30 million for the next
Boards and operators to grow
stage of the Geelong Performing
tourism in Victoria’s regions.
Arts Centre.
The new entity will also be charged
with growing regional Victoria’s
enviable calendar of events.
It means a more resilient tourism
and events industry – and that
means a stronger State.
26 Victoria’s Regional StatementRenewable energy Small business We have committed $86 million
over four years to upgrade racing
Victoria is taking the lead on climate Regional Victoria is home to around infrastructure and facilities for
change action and becoming a 28 per cent of our small businesses patrons, particularly at racing and
low-carbon economy. We want to which make up by far the largest training venues in regional areas.
support regional Victorians to take proportion of businesses in regional Key projects funded include:
advantage of the significant job Victoria, providing jobs and
• $3.4 million for the reconstruction
opportunities expected to emerge contributing to social cohesion and
of the Seymour Course.
in the new energy industries that will export growth.
drive this transition. • $407,000 to upgrade the
The Small Business Festival Victoria harness tracks at Mildura
The Government’s Renewable is the Government’s annual small and Horsham.
Energy Roadmap sets out our plan business month comprising an
• Supporting the re-opening of
for accelerating development of extensive program of events aimed
the Traralgon greyhound track
renewable energy generation in at providing ideas and information
and the Traralgon Cup.
Victoria to reduce emissions, create to start and grow a business.
jobs and put downward pressure on • Track fencing upgrades at
This year, almost half of the events Donald and Bairnsdale.
energy prices.
were hosted in regional Victoria
• Raceday attractions including
The $20 million New Energy Jobs and access to the festival’s regional
the Anzac Day Races at Avoca,
Fund will support Victorian-based events continued to expand with
and Australia Day races at tracks
new energy technology projects the addition of two new regional
across regional Victoria.
that create or preserve long-term festivals in Shepparton and Mildura.
sustainable jobs. It is also aimed They joined existing regional
at increasing the uptake of festivals in Geelong, Ballarat, Creative industries
renewable energy generation, Bendigo, North East Victoria,
reducing greenhouse gas emissions Gippsland, and along the Great A thriving arts and cultural scene
and driving innovation in new South Coast. helps make rural and regional
energy technologies. Victoria a great place to live
and visit.
We have also launched an initiative Racing
to use our energy purchasing Regional Victoria is famous for
Victoria is the proud leader of the number and quality of its art
power to source renewable energy
Australian racing, generating more galleries and its local artists are
certificates from new projects in
than $2.8 billion in economic known internationally.
Victoria, bringing forward around
activity and supporting more than
$200 million of new investment This year, the Ballarat Art Gallery is
26,500 full time jobs.
in renewables. the exclusive Victorian host of the
Country racing alone contributes 2015 Archibald Prize exhibition and
We will continue our leadership in
almost $940 million in annual the Government is looking at how
this area, building a strong future
economic output, and regional we can pursue similar opportunities
for our state in renewable energy
Victoria is home to around 80 per for regional Victoria through the
that will deliver major benefits for
cent of trainers and breeders. development of Victoria’s first
regional Victoria.
creative industries strategy.
Victoria’s Regional Statement 27Events like Castlemaine State Water
Festival, which is Australia’s oldest Ararat Arts Precinct
regional state festival, attract large Development Water is central to our social fabric
numbers of visitors who flock to and fundamental to supporting a
the town for this biennial event. Built in 1898, the Ararat healthy environment, prosperous
The 2013 festival attracted record Town Hall is a Western economy and healthy thriving
breaking crowds and box office Victorian landmark. The Ararat communities now and into the
numbers and partnered with Regional Art Gallery and the future. Victoria has established
35 local industries and business and Ararat Performing Arts Centre strong foundations to help us
70 sponsors, philanthropists and have been co-located in the realise opportunities to improve
government bodies. The calculated building since 1978. water management across
economic contribution for the $3.7 million is being provided our state. However, Victoria is also
2013 Castlemaine State Festival through the Regional Jobs facing challenges of climate change,
was $2.48m. and Infrastructure Fund for population growth and changing
the $5.29 million Ararat Arts economic conditions. We require
We have invested $20 million to
Precinct revitalisation project a new statewide framework to
support arts and cultural hubs
that will improve the Gallery realise these opportunities to
across Victoria, and it’s already
and Performing Arts spaces. improve water management
bringing results.
It will also include works to and address the challenges
For example, our $2.8 million plan provide café and bar spaces facing Victoria.
for small town transformations will and improve the public The Victorian Government is
help places with a population less interface of the facilities. developing a new plan for water
than 2000 bring the community
This new project will maximise management that will set the
together through large-scale
long term investment in strategic direction for water in
art projects.
the arts, enhance the visitor Victoria for decades to come.
Through the Major Events Fund experience offered by both The focus of the water plan
we have secured the renowned facilities and enable the will be on enhancing our social
international Marilyn Monroe gallery to present its nationally fabric through:
Exhibition for the Bendigo Art important textile art collection • Supporting jobs and economic
Gallery which will attract visitors and major exhibitions as productivity across the state.
from across Australia. unique tourist drawcards.
• Improving the health of our
waterways and catchments.
• Enabling water management
to play an essential role in
our health and wellbeing
to improve liveability and
recreational opportunities.
28 Victoria’s Regional Statement• Supporting Aboriginal values. During this time, we saw We also need to think about how
• Preparing for drought, flood communities come together and we better physically move our water
and climate change. become innovative in terms of using through our water grid and the rules
every drop of water wisely. and processes that control how our
• Realising the potential of
water can be traded and delivered.
Victoria’s water grid and markets. Since 1 January 2015, there has
Clear information about our water
• Delivering safe, reliable been below average rainfall across
system is important for people to
and affordable water and Victoria. The picture on just how
make their own decisions so that
sanitation services. dry it is going to be is changing
we all share the benefits of this
quickly. Science tells us that
Our water plan will also build precious resource.
average temperatures will continue
on and improve the statewide to increase – there will be hotter and Through the water plan we will look
framework to realise these dryer spells but also more intense, at all options for how to optimise
opportunities to improve water extreme rain. our water grid. The Government
management and address the will continue to work with the
challenges facing Victoria. These conditions are already
Commonwealth Government
affecting parts of our state. This will
Better engagement with local and water corporations to
be the second consecutive poor
communities is fundamental to improve security of supply for
season for most farmers in Victoria’s
improving water management the community, the environment
north west. Some are facing their
across Victoria and enhancing and to promote regional
third poor season.
our social fabric. The Andrews development opportunities.
Labor Government is committed In the short term, we have acted
to engaging broadly with our to support those that have been
stakeholders and local communities. hardest hit by fast tracking drought
support for farming communities.
We all know the incredible impact We are keeping a close watch
of the Millennium drought. Our water on the situation and will assess
storages dropped to unimaginably the need for future support as
low levels and crops failed across conditions unfold.
the state. Our sporting fields were
rock hard, gardens were brown
and our children playing under the
sprinkler was a forgotten image.
Our lakes emptied – not only
did it impact on our economy but
on the health and wellbeing of
our communities.
Victoria’s Regional Statement 29Planning WHAT’S NEXT
Geelong Authority
Victoria’s population is forecast • We will invest up to $25 million
to grow by 2.2 million people to We established the Geelong
from the Agriculture
7.7 million by 2031. But we know Authority to advise the
Infrastructure and Jobs
that growth in regional areas will Minister for Planning on major
Fund3 to identify opportunities
be uneven. planning applications to
to support the competitiveness
create jobs and growth and
Forty per cent of all regional of local agriculture, improve their
ways to attract investment in
population growth over that access to markets and attract
central Geelong.
period is forecast to occur in the investment through better co-
regional cities of Greater Geelong, It’s all about giving local ordination of planning for industry
Bendigo and Ballarat. residents and leaders a real development and by upgrading
voice in the future of their ‘first and last kilometre’ routes
Some areas are forecast to suffer city – cutting through the red across Victoria. We will work
significant population falls, including tape and bureaucracy to get with industry and local councils
in the shires of Buloke, Gannawarra, things done. to identify and prioritise
Corangamite and the Southern these opportunities.
Grampians. Vision 2 is a plan to renew
Geelong’s CBD, with a new • Back to Work Central Goldfields
A stronger planning system will city square, major street and Back to Work Shepparton
help councils manage growth. enhancements and a new will focus and co-ordinate efforts
In particular, the Government direction to attract investment, to improve job prospects for
is committed to supporting the jobs and growth. disadvantaged job seekers.
more productive uses of regional These trials will bring all tiers of
non-urban land through a planning But the plan has struggled to government together with local
system that facilitates growth get off paper. The Geelong employers and combine Back
of primary production and rural Authority will advise the to Work initiatives with other
industries. We’re therefore providing Minister on what council and employment, training and social
direct guidance with planning local businesses need to services to help people find and
scheme amendments, with make Vision 2 a reality. keep good local jobs.
planning officers located throughout • An $80 million package to bring
regional Victoria. more major events to regional
We’re also helping support Victoria and Melbourne, along
smaller rural councils to become with $11 million to upgrade
more sustainable and develop buildings, toilets, paths and
the local economy, providing roads and build new facilities
$3.5 million for the Networked in parks across the state.
Rural Councils program.
3 The Agriculture Infrastructure and Jobs
Fund is subject to the successful passage of
the Delivering Victorian Infrastructure (Port of
Melbourne Lease Transaction) Bill 2015.
30 Victoria’s Regional Statement• We will develop a contestable • We will finalise strategies for each • A new Water Plan for Victoria,
pipeline of the ten most of the six high-growth sectors to drive water efficiency and the
significant regional tourism under the $200 million Future best use of our water resources.
projects to fully realise the Industries Fund and ensure that • We will use our $200 million
economic potential of iconic each supports the growth and Agriculture Infrastructure and
assets (e.g. Budj Bim, and development of these sectors in Jobs Fund to invest $20 million
activating rail trains in the rural and regional Victoria. into the next stage of the
North East). • We will boost visitation and Macalister Irrigation District
• We will improve the way we expenditure in regional Victoria project as a co-investment with
support rural and regional by working more closely with Commonwealth Government
businesses by transitioning our Regional Tourism Boards to and industry.
Regional Development Victoria identify specific regional • We will support more
(RDV) offices into Regional tourism segments (such as productive use of non-urban
Business Centres, beginning food and wine, cultural or regional land by trialling new
with Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong nature-based tourism) and systems to assist businesses
and Traralgon. The Centres will develop unique products, events, looking to expand through the
provide a one-stop-shop for branding and marketing. Agribusiness Development
businesses looking to grow, • We will identify projects that are Facilitation model.
and will house new trade and of State or regional significance • Establishing a new Animal
investment teams, economic where government consideration Industries Advisory
development specialists from of the need for intervention Committee to report on how
across State Government (e.g. exercising Ministerial the planning system could
departments, and will work ‘call-in’ powers) may be able deliver clearer rules and
with local and Commonwealth to fast-track appropriate greater confidence for farmers
governments to access grant developments that boost jobs and councils around animal
programs and advice. and local economies. We will husbandry, while balancing
• We will work with Regional have criteria and processes in environmental outcomes and
Partnerships to identify place within six months. community expectations.
investment and infrastructure • A Renewable Energy Action
opportunities and promote Plan setting out a series of
regional Victoria as an initiatives to capture Victoria’s
investment destination. share of the estimated
• We will continue to partner $14.7 billion in renewable
with relevant agencies, energy investment expected
service providers and industry in Australia by 2020, including
associations to build export actions to support the uptake of
capability in regional Victoria energy storage.
through an Export Skills and
Training Program.
Victoria’s Regional Statement 31TRANSPORT AND
INFRASTRUCTURE FOR GROWTH
For regional Regional rail • $257 million for 21 new VLocity
regional carriages to be built in
Victorians, reliable The Regional Rail Link project Victoria, including $115 million
public transport is opened this year. It was the largest for new train stabling and
public transport infrastructure maintenance in Waurn Ponds.
about connecting project ever undertaken in Victoria, • $90 million for five new X’Trapolis
communities to with 90 kilometres of new track, trains to be built in Ballarat.
new and upgraded stations, major
sporting events, jobs, bridge works and two level crossing
• We have released a 10-year
plan for purchasing new trains
regional centres removals.
and trams, which includes a
and education The project provides dedicated significant expansion of the
tracks for regional trains from regional fleet. It’s Victoria’s
opportunities. Melbourne to Geelong, Ballarat and first-ever rolling stock strategy.
Bendigo, boosting the capacity The strategy outlines our plan to
We are improving safety for and reliability of services from these commission the next generation
regional Victorians by upgrading major regional centres. high capacity regional trains,
the regional road and rail networks, to cater for strong patronage
In addition to key infrastructure,
reducing travel times for freight and growth and more peak services.
the Andrews Labor Government is
making it easier for visitors to get to also committed to building trains • We’re also working with
regional Victoria. and trams in Victoria to support the TAFE sector to develop
Investing in road and rail local jobs and provide education programs for apprentices in the
infrastructure is also about and training. The 2015-16 rolling stock industry, training the
creating jobs and building stronger Victorian Budget invested more next generation of engineers.
regional communities. than $2 billion in a pipeline of
rolling stock. This includes:
32 Victoria’s Regional StatementRegional Network During the consultation, a range Freight rail
of issues and challenges that
Development Plan passengers are experiencing on the Our Government is boosting
The Regional Network Development existing network as well as many investment in rail infrastructure to
Plan will move Victoria away from ideas for better outcomes and lower the cost of getting critical
ad hoc service improvements, solutions into the future were raised. grains, minerals and other produce
towards a more coordinated exports to port.
This information will be fed back into
regional public transport network a plan to address the short, medium We are progressing the $416 million
where train and bus services work and long term regional infrastructure Murray Basin Rail Project, which will
together to get people where they needs of communities. fully standardise and upgrade the
need to go quicker and safer. entire Murray Basin rail network.
For the first time, regional Regional buses The Government has provided
communities were consulted on up to $220 million in the
the specific public transport needs As part of the Government’s $100 2015-16 Victorian Budget for
of their region. million investment to improving bus the project, with $5 million fast-
networks across Victoria, stronger tracked in February to get work
A Regional Transport Advisory bus networks will be developed in
Group was established to started on critical maintenance
regional areas. We will work with and safety works.
oversee an extensive community communities and councils to plan
consultation period held from new bus routes, fix the missing links Major works are expected to
23 June until 11 September. and add more services. commence in the second half of
Community and stakeholder 2016 and 270 jobs will be created
workshops were held in regional A new bus network has been during construction.
cities and towns across Gippsland, introduced in Geelong and the
Grampians, Hume, Loddon-Mallee Bellarine, providing better bus This project will make supply chains
and Barwon-South West. connections to trains. We have more efficient, give businesses a
consulted with the local community, greater choice of ports to export
More than 1,400 community bus operators and council on the their commodities and sustain
members and stakeholders future Bendigo bus network. We and create jobs in agriculture
attended workshops and over will develop future bus networks in and construction.
15,000 pieces of feedback were Ballarat and the Latrobe Valley.
collected through the online survey
and online discussion tool. Consultation with communities and
local councils will be central to bus
planning for the future.
Victoria’s Regional Statement 33It is estimated that it will reduce • $106 million has been committed • $50 million in the Safer Country
the number of truck trips to port to construct the Drysdale Crossings Program, boosting
by 20,000 due to the higher axle Bypass, which is crucial for the safety at 52 priority roads and
loading and improved standard of wellbeing of the town and will crossings which carry high
the track. support local jobs. speed passenger trains or a
• Subject to the successful high number of heavy vehicles.
It’s all about boosting the safety,
passage of the Port of The upgrades will include works
capacity and reliability of freight
Melbourne lease legislation, our to install flashing lights and
services in Northern Victoria
new $200 million Agriculture boom gates. $2 million was
and better connecting primary
Infrastructure and Jobs Fund fast-tracked to begin works on
producers to the State’s major
will enable key freight routes to three level crossing upgrades:
ports in Portland, Geelong and
be upgraded to accommodate at Springhurst near Wangaratta,
Melbourne.
heavier vehicles. This will drive Gnotuk near Camperdown and
economic growth, create jobs, Pirron Yallock near Colac.
Regional roads boost exports and support
Victorian farmers from paddock Telecommunications
We are taking action to improve the
safety and productivity of Victoria’s to port.4
Information and telecommunications
rural and regional road network. are critical for regional business
This is vital for locals, visitors and Road safety competitiveness. In an increasingly
businesses alike. “online” world, they are also vital
It’s not just about economic
• The Government has committed productivity, it’s also about keeping to supporting children’s education,
$1 billion to upgrade and repair people safe on country roads. providing quality healthcare
unsafe and congested roads and That’s why we’re also upgrading and community activities. But
bridges in regional communities. the local roads that families use broadband and mobile coverage is
This commitment recognises that every day. We are investing: variable across regions, restricting
local communities and industry business productivity and the ability
• $87 million to resurface unsafe, of communities to fully participate.
needs to be better supported
deteriorating road surfaces
and Government will continue These limitations also affect how
across the state, to give families
to work with councils to identify easily people can connect with one
more peace of mind.
their infrastructure needs and another, and put them at risk during
allocate funding accordingly. • $3 million to improve traffic
emergencies.
and safety on High Street in
• We are investing $76 million to
partnership with the communities The Government has co-invested
strengthen bridges on key freight
of Drysdale and Portarlington. $21 million with Testra to the
routes to increase the overall
Commonwealth Government’s
safety of the road network and
Mobile Black Spot Programme
reduce travel time for heavy
securing an $86 million investment
vehicles. Work is expected to
for Victorian regional communities.
commence this year on the first
stage of the program, which
will focus on 17 priority bridges
that have deteriorated to such
an extent that semi-trailers and 4 The Agriculture Infrastructure and Jobs
B-doubles cannot use them. Fund is subject to the successful passage of
the Delivering Victorian Infrastructure (Port of
Melbourne Lease Transaction) Bill 2015.
34 Victoria’s Regional StatementYou can also read
