Government support for Northern Australia growth

REGIONAL Development Australia Greater Whitsundays (RDA GW) recently hosted A Date with Northern Australia to bring together relevant stakeholders interested in pursuing the region’s further development and growth.

Opened by the newly appointed Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm, the workshop involved various agencies in attendance who are actively seeking business involvement and collaboration, with a focus on growth in the north.

RDA GW Board Chair Pierre Viljoen was “impressed” by the “range of conversation and ideas that were presented at the workshop event – our opportunities truly do abound”.

“Across the north of Australia, opportunities exist to build on our traditional industries – including extraction and processing of resources; growth and diversification of agriculture and aquaculture to produce clean, safe food, fibre and foliage; capitalising on cultural offerings and natural assets to grow tourism; and local participation in the defence industry supply chain,” Prof Viljoen said.

“Opportunities also exist in new and emerging industries – such as renewable and low emissions industries like solar, wind and hydrogen; advanced manufacturing in resources technology, medical, clean energy, and food and beverage industries; the space industry including infrastructure and observational capabilities; and cultural and creative industries, which can enhance arts enterprise whilst protecting cultural heritage.

“We thank Assistant Minister for Regional Development, Anthony Chisholm for being in attendance for our event, participating in the discussions for sustainable development opportunities in our area.”