Leonie Pearson writes in The Conversation (26.6.17) that Australia’s regional cities can be as effective at generating ‘jobs and growth’ as their big five metro cousins. But, as noted in new research from the Regional Australia Institute, regional centres must identify and build on their strengths to be investment-ready.
‘Investing in regional cities’ economic performance makes good sense. Contrary to popular opinion, new research out today shows regional cities generate national economic growth and jobs at the same rate as big metropolitan cities. They are worthy of economic investment in their own right – not just on social and equity grounds.
‘However, for regional cities to capture their potential A$378 billion output to 2031, immediate action is needed. Success will see regional cities in 2031 produce twice as much as all the new economy industries produce in today’s metropolitan cities.
‘Drawing on lessons from the UK, the collaborative work by the Regional Australia Institute and the UK Centre for Cities spotlights criteria and data all Australian cities can use to help get themselves investment-ready.’
- Bust the regional city myths and look beyond the ‘big 5’ for a $378b return »
- Regional Australia Institute: Investing in regional cities »
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- Making small cities bigger will help better distribute Australia’s 25 million people »
- How many people make a good city? It’s not the size that matters, but how you use it »
- Regional Australia’s time has come – planning for growth is now vital »
- Rebalancing the nation: regionalisation consultation paper »
- Understanding the lived experience and benefits of regional cities »