The Brumby Government is supporting the development of major projects in Victoria’s south-west with a $60,000 grant announced today the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP.
Ms Tierney said the funding would help Moyne Shire and Warrnambool City councils employ a Major Projects Liaison Officer for 12 months.
“In Moyne Shire there is currently more than $4 billion worth of investment proposed or already approved,” Ms Tierney said.
“Projects include the Shaw River Power Station, Mortlake Power Plant, Macarthur Windfarm along with numerous other wind farm applications.
“These projects are expected to generate about 2430 jobs in the construction phase alone.
“Appointing a Major Projects Liaison Officer for 12 months to be the primary link and provide a critical interface between industry, community and government.”
The position will:
• Oversee community engagement and consultation regarding local impact of the projects in various townships;
• Assist local government, businesses and communities to identify and take advantage of emerging opportunities;
• Communicate industry needs and project impacts including workforce, transport, housing/accommodation, services, infrastructure and other resource requirements;
• Work with local and state government departments to plan for increased demand on local government services; and
• Provide information to local government to facilitate timely pre and post approval processes for major project development.
Ms Tierney said appointing a dedicated Major Project Liaison Officer would help maximise the economic development flow on effects of significant projects for Moyne Shire and Warrnambool City councils.
“It will also improve co-ordination across council departments to ensure that industry proponent’s and the community’s needs for services are understood and met in a timely manner,” Ms Tierney said.
Ms Tierney said the funding for the $120,000 would be provided to Moyne Shire and Warrnambool City councils through Regional Development Victoria’s Provincial Economic Partnership (PEP) program.
“The $2.85 million PEP program is part of the Make it Happen in Provincial Victoria campaign, which aims to encourage people to relocate to rural and regional areas,” Ms Tierney said.
“PEP will further equip Moyne Shire and Warrnambool City councils with the skills and tools they need to capture economic and investment opportunities in the region.
“The three-year PEP initiative is providing financial assistance for councils to highlight their regions’ strengths through promotional and marketing activities and to help up-skill staff working in the area of economic development.
“It reflects the Brumby Government’s commitment to working in partnership with local councils and communities to drive new growth opportunities across provincial Victoria.”