The Goulburn Murray Regional Prosperity Plan, launched by Victorian Employment and Small Business Minister Jaala Pulford, is a new and innovative approach to generating new opportunities and shared prosperity for the benefit of everyone in the Goulburn Murray region.
The plan was developed by First Nations and non-Indigenous institutions, organisations and businesses.
The plan will deliver a range of outcomes and benefits for the region including:● A place-based and nation-leading plan for all community members.● An additional $150 million in Gross Regional Product (GRP) per annum by 2036.● A cumulative contribution to GRP over 15 years exceeding $500 million.● A significant boost to employment and new businesses for First Nations people, including more than 460 additional full-time equivalent jobs by 2036.● Increased home ownership rates and inherited wealth for First Nations people.
A bold target is to dismantle structural racism and ignorance within the community.
“This plan is innovative and ambitious – providing key insights on how to create shared prosperity, where local First Nations people can contribute to and benefit from the growth of the wider economy,” Ms Pulford said.
The 15-year plan is built on a shared prosperity model where local First Nations people can contribute to and benefit from the growth of the wider economy.
Kaiela Institute Executive Chair and Project Control Group Co-Chair Paul Briggs called it a historical turning point for the region.
“This has been designed from the ground up by the region, for the region,” he said.
“Together, we are tackling the challenges of historical dispossession, marginalisation and trans-generational poverty by saying we all benefit from embracing Yorta Yorta knowledge and culture, and we all gain by sharing the value and prosperity First Nations people can bring to our regional economy.”
Project Control Group Co-Chair David McKenzie said many high profile local businesses and institutions had already put up their hands to become Plan Champions or sign the Statement of Intent which commits signatories to building partnerships.
These include SPC, Furphy, Gouge Linen and Garment Services, Goulburn-Murray Water, Greater Shepparton City Council, Strathbogie Shire Council and the Committees for Greater Shepparton and Echuca Moama.
“We are proud, excited and optimistic about delivering this whole-of-region plan,” Mr McKenzie said.
“The time is now. The region is ready to take a leadership role in working together to deliver this powerful and achievable vision for shared prosperity.”
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