The NSW Government is making significant investment in regional NSW, including $1.3 billion funding commitment in the 2017-18 Budget. To ensure that this investment is successful in growing business confidence, creating and encouraging business investment, maximising the potential for jobs growth and securing a strong future for our region, the NSW government, through the Centre for Economic and Regional Development (CERD), is working with our local councils to develop Regional Economic Development Strategies (REDS) for a selection of regions, including the Lower North West – which includes Liverpool Plains, Tamworth Regional and Gunnedah Councils.

CERD has engaged economic consultancy, Sapere Research Group, to assist Lower North West Councils and our communities in the development of the Lower North West REDS. The project involves the application of an internationally recognised approach which includes a support team with strong economic expertise to ensure that the Strategy is underpinned by robust data and genuine, effective community consultation. The application of the same approach to REDS across the state means that evidence based comparisons can be made and prioritising areas of greatest need for future funding will be easier.

The Lower North West REDS will provide a clear picture of where we stand in terms of economic opportunities, challenges and strengths. It will also become a vital tool in providing evidence to support applications to Government and other funding bodies for implementation of specific economic development, infrastructure and other related projects.

Local engagement and ownership of the process and outcome is critical to success. We work together as a community to ensure that we capture our existing local knowledge, skills and expertise and broader competitive economic advantages. A set of strategies to address the specific priorities for the Lower North West will only be authentic with the collaboration of local industries, businesses, not-for-profit organisations and the broader community.

Development of the REDS also provides an opportunity to continue working toward a regionally integrated Lower North West area working together toward a strong and sustainable future.

A workshop will be held in the region to inform the community of the project, outline the most up-to-date economic information about our region and to mobilise leaders from across sectors, industries and the community. It is important that our local leaders, business owners, Industry leaders, peak bodies, sector representatives, council staff and specialist consultants work together to apply a foundation of rigorous data in developing strategies which capture our most likely economic opportunities and realistic possibilities for growth.

The final document will provide Lower North West with a clear vision and way forward to support economic growth, job creation, investment attraction and community strengthening.

See the Lower North West Region REDS Background Factsheet below for more information.