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This article was published on Wednesday, 29 March, 2017. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

GSCC CEO part of RJIP Local Planning Committee

Local committee named to identify investment priorities for the Coalition's $20 million jobs package
Funding for local infrastructure projects, business innovation grants, skills & training
Coalition Government says local communities should decide their own future

The RJIP is a $220 million Australian Government initiative designed to create local jobs and growth, assist in diversifying regional economies and build stronger communities in 10 regions across the country.

Sam Birrell has been appointed chair of the Local Planning Committee, along with the following members:

Julie Aldous
Judith Cue-Ahmat
Ben Hardman
Peter Harriott
Ken McLennan
Dennis O'Brien
Astrid O'Farrell
Sarah Parker
Anna Speedie
Tony Thompson

Mr Drum says the Goulburn Valley's Local Planning Committee will develop a Local Investment Plan that outlines the region's sectors for growth and identifies new markets which may create sustainable jobs in the future.

‘Our committee brings together leaders from across regional Victoria with a broad range of skills. We understand that locals know our community best.’

‘Once the Local Investment Plan is completed, the Committee will invite businesses, councils and community groups across the Goulburn Valley region to apply for funding,’ he said.

Mr Drum says the Coalition invests in the regions because the Coalition understands Australia's cities cannot exist without our regions, which supply cities their water, food, electricity and gas.

‘We're proud to give the Murray region a $20 million shot in the arm,' he said.

‘Our 10 Regional Jobs and Investment Packages across Australia are worth a total of $220 million and aim to deliver the jobs of today which will still be there tomorrow,’ he said.

Funding will be available across three streams: Local Infrastructure Projects, Business Innovation Grants, and Skills and Training.

‘These people are leaders in their local communities and have the important responsibility of representing their communities,’ Minister Nash said.

‘This Local Planning Committee will nominate the local industry sectors the package will invest in and will identify opportunities for economic growth.

‘I aim to help build the kinds of communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to, and investing in sustainable local jobs helps grow that kind of community.’

CLICK HERE for more information on Goulburn Valley's Regional Jobs and Investment Packages.

SOURCE:http://minister.infrastructure.gov.au