REGIONAL Roadmap...midway between the capital cities of Adelaide and Melbourne, covering the...

REGIONALRoadmap

September 2010

2010-2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ...........................................................................................2

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .............................................................................3

OVERVIEW OF THE REGION ....................................................................4

SOCIAL CONTEXT ........................................................................................6

ECONOMIC CONTEXT ............................................................................. 14

EDUCATION AND TRAINING CONTEXT ............................................ 21

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT ................................................................ 25

INFRASTRUCTURE CONTEXT ............................................................... 26

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONTEXT .......................................... 28

STAKEHOLDERS ........................................................................................ 29

STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK ..................................................................... 32

LONG TERM VISION AND GOALS ...................................................... 37

REVIEW ....................................................................................................... 40

REGIONAL ROADMAP 2010-2015 | 1

INTRODUCTION

Regional Development Australia (RDA) is a partnership between

three levels of Government:-

• the Australian Government through the Department of Regional Australia, Regional Development & Local

Government;

• the State Government through the Department of Trade and Economic Development; and

• Local Government through the South East Local Government Association (comprising the City of Mount Gambier; District

Councils of Grant, Kingston, Robe and Tatiara; and the Naracoorte Lucindale and Wattle Range Councils).

The role of the RDA Network is to enhance growth and strengthen the regional communities of Australia and the network will have a pivotal role in ensuring the long term

sustainability of Australia’s regions. RDA is delivered through a national network of 55 committees/boards across Australia with a network of 8 Boards established in South Australia (one metropolitan and 7 regional bodies). These Boards have been established as incorporated associations under the Associations

Incorporations Act (1985) and represent the integration of four non-metropolitan Area Consultative Committees and thirteen Regional Development Boards.

RDA is based on building partnerships between governments, regional development organisations, the private sector and other key regional stakeholders to provide a strategic and targeted response to issues in each region and to facilitate community leadership and resilience. RDA will work with all stakeholders to develop and strengthen local communities.

The RDA committees/boards:- • support informed regional planning; • consult and engage with the community on economic, social

and environmental issues, solutions and priorities; • liaise with governments and local communities about

government programs, services, grants and initiatives for regional development; and

• contribute to business growth plans and investment strategies, environmental solutions and social inclusion strategies in their region.

In South Australia RDAs play a service delivery role through the ongoing provision of business assistance programs. In addition to the strategic role played by the Board and the CEO the following programs are delivered across the Limestone Coast Region:-

• Small Business Advisory Service • Regional Migration Program • SA Works in the Regions • Career Development Centre • Export (Austrade programs)

2 | REGIONAL ROADMAP 2010-2015

Purpose of the RoadmapThe RDA committee is responsible for the

development of a Regional Roadmap,

which describes the selected region, its attributes,

industry and employment base and key advantages.

The Roadmap sets out the economic,

environmental and social vision for the region,

articulates the drivers of change,

identifies strengths, weaknesses and opportunities,

and lists priorities for action.

The Roadmap can be used by all stakeholders

including parties who may have an interest in

becoming future residents or investors in the region.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Regional Development Australia (RDA) is a partnership between

three levels of Government and the role of the RDA Network is to enhance growth and strengthen the regional communities of Australia and the network will have a pivotal role in ensuring the long term sustainability of Australia’s regions.

The Limestone Coast Region (South East of South Australia) lies

midway between the capital cities of Adelaide and Melbourne, covering the south-eastern section of South Australia. Together with

the neighbouring Western Districts of Victoria, this wider region is often referred to as the Green Triangle Region and represents a very important political, community and industry based alliance.

The Limestone Coast region supports a population of approximately 65,000 people covering an area of some 21,376 square kilometers

with fertile soils, reliable rainfall and abundant underground water. Key regional industries include agriculture, forestry (which includes wood processing) and fishing; wine (viticulture and winemaking); fishing/aquaculture; dairy; horticulture; beef cattle; sheep; grain and seed production; manufacturing; retail trade; education; health and community services; construction; accommodation, cafes and restaurants; and transport.

In compiling this Regional Roadmap a series of consultations were undertaken throughout the community, to gather information on the key priorities, issues and opportunities for the region. The main body of the document describes in detail those issues and they are summarised below as the 11 key actions for priority attention of the RDA.

It is intended that this Roadmap will be constantly under review and updated and that regular consultation with the community will occur. The process of review and accountability against the activities of the RDA is also outlined in the document.


11 KEY ACTIONS FOR PRIORITY ATTENTION

4 Drive population growth to a vibrant and

industrious 140,000 by 2030 through

influencing the strategic regional development

planning and policy settings of Governments.

4 Develop regional leadership capacity to support,

empowerment and motivation as a key regional

development objective.

4 Achieve targeted economic development

outcomes to ensure jobs for an increased

population.

4 Increase the skills level across the region

through better access and participation in

secondary schooling, vocational training and

higher education.

4 Support the South East Natural Resource

Management Board to deliver on their regional

plan, whilst at the same time maximising

available economic, social and environmental

opportunities from our natural resource base.

4 Pursue funding as a “mini metro” model for

the Mount Gambier Hospital and support

the cluster of health services in the region

to increase access to GPs, specialist services,

mental health and community health services.

4 Fast track the implementation of the Green Triangle

Freight Action Plan, including significant upgrade

of the Princes Highway from Kingston through

the Coorong to just south of Tailem Bend.

4 Ensure the Limestone Coast is a high priority

region for participation in the national broadband

rollout and other telecommunications initiatives

to achieve similar capacity and quality enjoyed by

metropolitan Australia.

4 Improve social outcomes by addressing the shortage

of affordable housing options and removing the

financial, physical, emotional and geographic

barriers for citizen’s accessing adequate aged

care, dental, health and allied health and mental

health care facilities in the region.

4 Assist the District Council of Grant to achieve the

upgrading of runways, taxiways and facilities at

the Mount Gambier Airport to meet industry and

regulatory standards associated with a modern,

major regional airport.

4 Ensure that maintenance and renewal of

structures associated with the Upper and Lower

South East Drainage Schemes is a continuing high

infrastructure priority.


The Limestone Coast Region

(South East of South Australia)

lies midway between the capital cities of Adelaide and Melbourne, covering the south-eastern

section of South Australia

and encompasses the Local Government areas of the City of

Mount Gambier; District Councils

of Grant, Kingston, Robe and Tatiara; and the Naracoorte Lucindale and Wattle Range Councils.

Together with the neighbouring

Western Districts of Victoria, this

wider region is often referred to as the Green Triangle Region

and represents a very important political, community and industry based alliance. There is a real connectedness between the communities comprising the

Green Triangle, geographically

in terms of proximity to the State capitals of Adelaide and Melbourne; at Local Government

level where the cooperation

for strategic purposes is very

deliberate; and across businesses and the communities through sport, cultural and social interactions.

One of the key political and marketing strengths of each part

of the region is the ability to unite

under the Green Triangle banner.

OVERVIEW OF THE REGION


Greater Green Triangle Region

The Limestone Coast region supports a population of approximately 65,000 people with approximately 40% of residents living in the Mount Gambier LGA. When combined with the Grant and Wattle Range LGAs, the Lower South East area accounts for 70% of the region’s population, leading to a centralisation of services and greater employment opportunities in that area. The City of Mount Gambier and a number of towns across the region, including Naracoorte, Millicent, Penola, Bordertown, Keith, Robe, Kingston and Lucindale provide a range of business, retail and community services. The largest population centres are the City of Mount Gambier (24,000 people) and townships of Millicent (5,500 people) and Naracoorte (5,000 people).

Australian born people make up 85.9% of the population of the region. Migration is principally from the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands and more recently from New Zealand and South Africa. The Aboriginal population grew by 17.9% from 2001 to 2006 to 776 persons and has a young profile with 36.1% aged less than 15 years.

The region houses many of South Australia’s key resource based companies and covers an area of some 21,376 square kilometers with fertile soils, reliable rainfall and abundant underground water. Key regional industries include agriculture, forestry and fishing (which includes wood processing); wine (viticulture and winemaking); fishing/aquaculture; dairy; horticulture; beef cattle; dairy; sheep; grain and seed production; manufacturing; retail trade; education; health and community services; construction; accommodation, cafes and restaurants; and transport.

The climate is characterised by cool wet winters and mild to hot, dry summers. Average annual rainfall varies considerably, from approximately 850mm in the south of the region to 450mm in the north of the region.

SOCIAL CONTEXT

Population growth

The estimated population of the Limestone Coast has grown at a rate just below the State average in the last few years. The

working age population of the region is expected to peak in 2011 and slowly decline in the following years. Population growth is not even across the region with decreases in the Upper South East areas and increases in the Lower South East.

Year PopulationChange from

previous year

South

Australia

June 2005 63,499 0.7% 0.5%

June 2006 64,615 1.8% 1.7%

June 2007 64,832 0.3% 1.0%

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Estimated resident Population (2009 Limestone Coast Regional Profile)

Population characteristics

Town growth

While Mount Gambier, Penola, Millicent, Kingston, and Bordertown have shown slight increases in population between 2001 and 2006, Robe has seen a significant increase (over 30%). Naracoorte and Keith have seen a decrease in population size.

Aboriginal population

Approximately 1.2% of the population of the Limestone Coast (776 persons) identified as being of Aboriginal origin at the 2006 Census. This figure is below the State average of 1.7%. Almost half of the 1.2% identified lived in the Mount Gambier council area. The Aboriginal population has a younger age

profile than the non-Aboriginal population, with one third being aged less than 15 years. Between 2001 and 2006, the Aboriginal population in the area increased by eighteen percent.

Population by Age and Sex, Limestone Coast, June 2008 Source: EasyData

State Male State Female

Male (%)

8 6 4 2 0

85+

80-84

75-79

70-74

65-69

60-64

55-59

50-54

45-49

40-44

35-39

30-34

25-29

20-24

15-19

10-14

5-9

0-4

0 2 4 6 8

Female (%)

Male Female


POPULATION

The socio-economic ranking of the Limestone Coast by the Division of General Practice

Following the 2001 Census, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) produced four socio-economic indexes for areas (SEIFA) which describe aspects of the socio-economic profile of populations in areas. The scores for these indexes for each Statistical Local Area (SLA) or part SLA in Limestone Coast DGP are shown in the supporting information. The Limestone Coast DGP area’s Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage (IRSD) score is 983, slightly (1.7%) below the average score for Australia (1000) and just above the score for country South Australia (981); this highlights the near-average socio-economic status profile of the Limestone Coast DGP population. Despite this near average ranking, there are issues around unemployment, low income, health and mental health, which are focused in particular areas.


Children in Jobless Families

by Local Government Area

Local Government Area No.

Grant 130

Kingston 47

Mount Gambier City 830

Naracoorte Lucindale 149

Robe 11

Tatiara 96

Wattle Range 393

Total 1656

Source: www.publichealth.gov.au figures based on 2008 data

Children in Welfare Dependant & other low

income families by Local Government Area


Grant 333

Kingston 77



Robe 0

Tatiara 221

Wattle Range 618

Total 2703


Young people

Young people from low socio-economic backgrounds in the Limestone Coast continue to experience opportunity disadvantage because of their circumstances, regardless of their living situations. Service providers report homelessness as a secondary issue arising for young people with alcohol and drug problems, mental health concerns, relationship breakdowns and family violence. Whilst they agree numbers are difficult to quantify, homelessness (including in some cases young people living independently) is spread across the region, with many hidden cases of ‘couch surfing’. Combined, these issues often result in disconnection with education and training.

Child Adolescent Mental Health Services estimate that on average around 20% of mental health related admissions in the region are for young people.

Young people accessing Community

Health Services by Local Government Area


Grant 92

Kingston 31



Robe 11

Tatiara 114

Wattle Range 237

Total 1214


Adolescent with Mental Health problems

0 – 19 years by Local Government Area


Grant 16

Kingston 10



Robe 0

Tatiara 44

Wattle Range 114

Total 540


The Australian Early Development Index (AEDI) looks at development in 5 domains. The physical, social, emotional, cognitive, behavioural and language development of a child is integrally connected to that child’s life experiences and environment. How a child learns and develops across each domain influences wellbeing and competence for life. Children with more vulnerability in more than one domain are more likely to be at risk of disengaging from school at an early age. Whilst data is still being collected the snapshot thus far indicates that 18.6% of children in the region are below the 10th percentile in one domain and that 10% of children have more than two domains where they are below the 10th percentile.

POPULATION cont.


Australian Early Development Index

At Risk – below 10% Vulnerable 10–25% On Track 25–50% On Track above 50th Percentile

Physical 60 70 162 391

Social 58 98 141 354

Emotional 53 99 146 367

Language 31 72 142 428

Communication 31 94 134 235

Age profile

The Limestone Coast has above average proportions of children (0 to 14 years) compared to the State average. Time series data shows that this is not reflected in working age population figures, with lower than state average numbers of young people (15 to 34 years) compared to the state average, and compared to anticipated numbers based on the numbers of children. The region’s 10 to 14 year olds in 1996 (4921) have become 20 to 24 year olds by 2006 and have dwindled to 3404. The figures show some reversal of this trend from age 25 years. The region has above state average numbers of adults (35 to 50 years) and lower proportions of older people (60 years or older).

POPULATION cont.

2006

2001

1996

70-74 years

60-64 years

50-54 years

40-44 years

30-34 years

20-24 years

10-14 years

0-4 years

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Time Series data 1996 to 2006

0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000


The median age for the region has grown from 34 years to 37 years from 1996 to 2006. Median household income has grown over this time from $548 to $874, with similar increases in median housing loan repayments from $563 to $867 monthly.

The working population profile shows an increase from 1996 to 2006 in the 15 to 19 year age group, a decrease in the 20 to 44 year age group and an increase in all older age groups. This has labour supply implications as the working age of the population continues to increase and the numbers of replacement workers decrease over time.

POPULATION cont.

Census year 2006

Census year 2001

Census year 1996

0 500 1,000 1,500

Median household income ($/weekly)

Median family income ($/weekly)

Median individual income ($/weekly)

Median age of persons

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Time Series data 1996 to 2006

2006

2001

1996

0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000

60-64 years

55-59 years

50-54 years

45-49 years

40-44 years

35-39 years

30-34 years

25-29 years

20-24 years

15-19 years

Source:2006 Census Community Profile Series, Working Population Profile

The Limestone Coast Workforce Report prepared in October 2009 provides a current and comprehensive summary of business and industry needs within the region. The report focuses on the supply and demand of labour in the region and goes on to identify potential opportunities for business and industry growth and implications for the workforce.

A snapshot of the findings impacting on opportunities for employment include:-

• 79% of employment across the region is in the following eight industry areas: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing; Manufacturing; Retail Trade; Education; Health and Community Services; Construction; Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants; and Transport.

• Much of the regional workforce is aged 45 years or over. The industries most affected by an aging workforce are: Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing; Health and Community Services; Education; and Transport and Storage.

• Part time and casual work continues to increase whilst unemployment has in recent times remained below state and national averages.

• A predicted steady or increased demand for labour across a number of industry sectors including health and community services, construction and education.

Labour Force Statistics by Local Government

Area (15 – 19 years)

15 – 19

years

Worked

Full

Time

Worked

Part

Time

Looking

for full

time

work

Looking

for part

time

work

Not in

labour

force

Wattle

Range111 167 28 22 316

Kingston 15 38 3 6 62

Grant 104 156 14 14 193

Mount

Gambier

City

287 492 82 86 526

Naracoorte

Lucindale134 120 11 10 186

Robe 9 21 0 3 11

Tatiara 74 89 0 8 8

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 2006 Census Population and Housing

Labour Force Statistics by Local Government

Area (20 - 24 years)

20 – 24

years

Worked

Full

Time

Worked

Part

Time

Looking

for full

time

work

Looking

for part

time

work

Not in

labour

force

Wattle

Range274 75 24 10 92

Kingston 56 13 6 0 20

Grant 171 51 17 8 41

Mount

Gambier

City

813 238 108 28 252

Naracoorte

Lucindale263 60 15 3 44

Robe 30 13 0 0 7

Tatiara 203 54 7 0 7

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 2006 Census Population and Housing

Youth Unemployment 15 – 24 years

LGA Number

Grant 50

Kingston 10



Robe 3

Tatiara 19

Wattle Range 86

Total 513

Source: www.publichealth.gov.au (2008 data)


EMPLOYMENT CHARACTERISTICS

Labour market indicators

The unemployment rate in the region fluctuates and is higher in the Lower South East than the Upper South East. It is consistently

lower than the state average over time.

Unemployment in the region has risen from 2005 onwards, and is uneven across the region, with the highest rate of unemployment in Mount Gambier.


EMPLOYMENT CHARACTERISTICS cont.

Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing 5027

Mining 84

Manufacturing 4832

Electricity, Gas and Water Supply 134

Construction 1444

Wholesale Trade 1231

Retail Trade 4269

Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants 1361

Transport and Storage 1126

Communications Services 160

Finance and Insurance 461

Property and Business Services 1305

Government Administration and Defence 755

Education 1774

Health and Community Services 2355

Cultural and Recreational Services 261

Personal and Other Services 825

1

600

400

200

0

-200

-400

-600

-800

-1000

Change in Employment numbers by industry in the Limestone Coast 1996 to 2006Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Time Series data 1996 to 2006

Part time work

The numbers of individuals who are employed part time or employed but away from work (in the week before the census) has grown from 1996 to 2006, while full time work and unemployed numbers fell in that period. High part time work numbers in the 30 to 44 year range may reflect parenting responsibilities, although they also reflect high Job Network customer numbers in those age groups.

The industries that offer the greatest opportunity for full time employment include Manufacturing, Construction and Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing and those offering the least opportunity include Retail Trade, Health and Community Services and Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants.

Over 50% of workers in the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing and Health and Community Services industries are aged 45 years and over. Education and Transport and Storage have slightly less than 50% of workers aged 45 years and over. These four industries face significant workforce issues as this cohort leaves the workforce.


EMPLOYMENT CHARACTERISTICS cont.

Age of workers by Industry sector 2006Source: 2006 Census of Population and Housing based on place of usual residence.

Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing

Mining

Manufacturing

Electricity, Gas and Water Supply

Construction

Wholesale Trade

Retail Trade

Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants

Transport and Storage

Communications Services

Finance and Insurance

Property and Business Services

Government Administration and Defence

Education

Health and Community Services

Cultural and Recreational Services

Personal and Other Services

0

Aged 15 to 44 Aged 45 and Over

1 2 3

SOCIAL CHALLENGES

The Limestone Coast provides for a high quality of life which can be further enhanced by ensuring access to services and by capitalising on opportunities available across the region.

Health and education services are the cornerstones for ensuring quality of life and in many parts of the region existing services are good and plans to improve them will enhance access, although in other parts of the region improvements will still

need to be made. The major regional health service is centered around the Mount Gambier Public Hospital and the co-located Private Hospital. The Hospital is a 24/7 Accident and Emergency acute service facility with a range of specialist, surgical and allied health services, supported by a comprehensive community health service. Smaller sub-regional Hospitals provide local and back up services in Millicent, Penola, Naracoorte, Bordertown and Kingston, together with a community Hospital in Keith. There are communities within the region and within towns that face obstacles in accessing such services and the use of innovative technologies and public transport solutions will assist and compliment direct access to those services.

Some individuals face significant barriers to participating in community life, whether that be for work, social, learning or

health activities. These barriers include lack of connections or confidence or motivation, fees, transport, mental health issues, lack of time, lack of information, geographical distance or lack of appropriate opportunities. Access to affordable high-speed broadband services will make a major difference to quality of life, population growth and the education upskilling of our regional communities and workforce.

Unemployment is higher in some towns and for young people generally throughout the region. In some areas unemployment

is deep seated, generational and long term. Strategies are needed to deliver services which enable people to manage their working life.

Although as a region sufficient residential aged care beds exist, Mount Gambier has a shortage and cannot meet demand. Many Mount Gambier residents in need of an aged care placement are therefore, sent to facilities in other towns including into western Victoria. People can be up to 150kms from their home and in such cases, this causes extreme distress to the individual and their families.

Inter–regional transport and transport services to Adelaide are critical for access to work, learning and health services and are not currently adequate.

Despite good progress made over recent years with access to housing in many regional towns, there remains a shortage in

the range of affordable housing options.

Humanitarian and skilled migrants and their families require services and support to ensure positive settlement in the region. Since 2006 more than 300 humanitarian refugees from Burma

(Karen ethnic group) and Africa (Congolese) have been re-settled into Mount Gambier. The Department of Immigration and Citizenship has identified Mount Gambier as a location for continuation of its re-settlement program.


ECONOMIC CONTEXT

The Limestone Coast region contains a very diverse range of industry sectors which makes for a robust and expanding business community.

An economy capitalising on the region’s unique and abundant water resources and built from traditional agriculture based activities, has now expanded to include forestry, tourism, engineering, transport, retail, health, education and service industries.


Gross Regional Product 2006/07 Source: Economic and Environmental Indicators for South Australia and its Regions, 2006/07, Econsearch, 2009

(Footnote: The ownership of dwellings sector is a notional sector designed to impute a return to the state’s housing stock. Net taxes in final demand are taxes less subsidies on products and production paid by households and other components of final demand)

Share ($m)



Building and Construction

Communication Services

Cultural and Recreational Services

Education

Electricity, Gas and Water

Finance and Insurance


Manufacturing

Mining

Net Taxes in Final Demand

Ownership of Dwellings

Personal Services

Property and Business Services

Public Administration and Defence

Retail Trade


Wholesale Trade

Series 1

Sec

tor

0 100 200 300 400 500 600


The top 8 industries by employment in the Limestone Coast region are:-

Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing employing 18.8% of workers. This includes sheep, cattle and grain farming, dairy farming, forestry and logging, fishing, horticulture, viticulture and fruit growing.

Manufacturing which employs 16.8% of workers including food and beverage manufacturing, wood & paper manufacturing, metal product manufacturing and machinery and equipment manufacturing.

Retail Trade employing 14.5% of the working population and covering food, personal and household goods, motor vehicle and services to timber products.

Health and Community Services is the fourth largest employing

8.2% of workers in the region and includes hospitals and nursing homes, medical and dental services, veterinary services and childcare services.

Construction is the 5th largest industry in the region employing 6.5% of the workforce. This industry covers general construction and construction trade services including civil works.

The Education sector employs 5.9% of workers in the region making it the 6th largest industry. This includes pre-school, school and post school education facilities.

The Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants services industry employs 4.7% of our workforce which puts it as the 7th largest employer in our region. Employment in this industry is often casual in nature and includes accommodation, pubs, taverns, bars, cafes, restaurants and clubs.

The Transport and Storage industry is the 8th largest employer in our region employing 3.7% of workers in the region. This industry includes road and air transport, services to transport and storage facilities.


Manufacturing

Construction

Retail Trade




Education

0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000

Series 1

The largest employers in the region comprise a healthy mix of local, national and global enterprises together with Government (including Local Government, Commonwealth/State Government employees in health, education and forestry). Medium size enterprises exist right across the region in agriculture, horticulture, food processing, engineering, transport, viticulture and earth moving. Small business (less than five employees) in the region is estimated to make up around 75% of total businesses operating.

Employment numbers by industry Source 2009 Limestone Coast Regional Profile

The agricultural industry in the region is diverse. Key sectors include beef, sheep, dairy, wool, seed, cropping, viticulture, lobster and abalone fisheries, horticulture and forestry.

Strength and the diversity of the region’s agricultural industries are in part as a result of two very comprehensive drainage schemes. The Lower South Eastern Drainage Scheme was commenced in the mid 1800s with the objective of systematically draining land inundated during the winter months, to make prime land available for grazing and cropping. The Drainage Scheme is managed to maximise the objectives set down, via a series of open drains and weirs and which also by necessity contains in excess of 800 bridges and culverts on public and private properties to ensure access and vehicular movements on local, state and national highways in the region. A deep drainage system in the Upper South East was commenced in the late 1990s and was principally established to assist in combating dryland salinity.

Both schemes are designed to maximise the productive capacity of the region.

The estimated Gross Food revenue in the Limestone Coast region in 2005-2006, including wine, was $1,320 million. (This figure takes into account the value of farm production, food value-adding, processing, packing and distribution, as well as food service and retail sales). At production level (farm gate) livestock, wine and field crops produced highest revenue over the years 2000 to 2006. In Gross Food revenue terms these industries also returned the highest revenue. Food processing in the region was valued at $836 million (wholesale value). Of this wine contributed 43%, livestock 31%, horticulture 15%, seafood 5%, field crops 4% and dairy 2%.1

Forestry is a major industry within the region, contributing to employment in the agriculture, manufacturing and transport sectors. The importance of forestry to the region over time cannot

be underestimated. There are 107,611 hectares of softwood and 42,368 hectares of hardwood planted in the region.2 This timber

resource provides an annual harvest of softwood of some 2.6 million tonnes and a predicted annual harvest of 1 million tonnes of hardwood (blue gums).


AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHING

1. The Limestone Coast Regional Food Scorecard 2005-06 was the source for this data. This scorecard is no longer produced at a regional level. Local information points to an increase in the share of dairy in current data.

2. Data compiled by the South East Resources Information Centre (SERIC), Mount Gambier, Updated July 2009.

Sources: Australian Bureau of Statistics; National Regional Profile, Upper South East, Lower South East Statistical Subdivisions released 28/07/08 Winegrape Utilisation and Pricing Survey 2007, Phylloxera and Grape Industry Board of South Australia; Forestry Green Print 2008

Wool - Shorn

Milk

Grapes - Wine

Sheep and Lambs

Slaughtered

Cattle and Calves

Slaughtered

State

Limestone Coast

Com

modit

y

0 5 10 15 20

Percentage (%)

Top Five Agricultural Commodities

by Value for Limestone Coast Region Source: EasyData

(Agricultural Commodities: Small Area Data, Australia 2005-06, ABS 2008)

Area in hectares Upper South East Lower South East

Cereals for grain 81,831.0 15,248.8

Vegetables for human consumption 2,264.7 1,470.8

Orchard trees (including nuts) 743.8 251.4

All fruit (excluding grapes) 743.8 252.5

Non cereal broad acre crops 52,054.4 10,701.7

Wine grapes 9,119 6,567

Forestry Softwood 108,000 hectares; Hardwood 42,000 hectares

Number Upper South East Lower South East

Sheep and lambs 2,487,839 856,809

Milk cattle (excluding house cows) 7,704 54,619

Meat cattle 363,930 243,323

Pigs 8,500 17,104

Demand for employment in this industry in the region has dropped in the census periods 2001 to 2006 by 7.2%. This fall is likely to have continued in the period since then due to the effects of drought, the global financial crisis effect on markets, a glut in grapes, milk price reductions, timber product sales reductions, increased efficiencies through the use of technology, changes in land use, and a drop in private investment. This drop in employment level is in line with national falls which have

seen, on average, a 1.6% fall per annum in the sector over the five years to February 2008.

At a national level, forecasts for growth within the sector are

predicted to be less than for other sectors. The largest growth is expected for grain, sheep and beef cattle farming followed by horticulture and fruit growing and services to agriculture.

These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Employment in this industry sector has over half its work force (52.3%) aged 45 years and over. 71% of the workforce is male. 79.3% of the workforce is in full time employment. The majority of agricultural enterprises within the region have less

than 20 employees.

Fishing ports servicing one of South Australia’s most valuable

commercial fishery (Southern Rock Lobster) are located predominantly in the Limestone Coast region. This small but productive part of the coastline yields an average $100m of revenue from the lobster catch annually and provides around 1,000 direct and in-direct jobs essential to the small coastal townships in the region.

Demand for employment in this sector in the region has remained steady in the census period 2001 to 2006 with a 0.1% increase. Current economic conditions are having an impact in the sector as forest

products struggle in depressed export markets, engineering margins and markets contract and firms make decisions about the level of maintenance work they

carry out. Longer term, there are

opportunities for growth as these

industries recover.

At a national level, forecasts for

growth within the sector recognise

that employment in this sector

has fluctuated considerably from 1992 to 2008. In long term

trends employment is expected to continue to decline overall. Food product, beverage, wood and paper pulp have slight growth projections, while metal product and machinery manufacturing are projected to decline. These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Key employment in this sector in the region is in food product, beverage, wood, pulp, paper, converted paper, primary metal, metal, fabricated metal, machinery and equipment

manufacturing. This industry has 36.3% of its workforce aged 45 years and over. 76.5% of the workforce is male. 87.2% of the workforce is in full time work. The majority of manufacturing

enterprises within the region have less than 20 employees

with the exception of wood processing and pulp and tissue manufacturing, where major employers host several hundred workers.


AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHING cont.

MANUFACTURING


Demand for employment in this sector increased by 23.1% in the census period 2001 to 2006. The establishment of the Mount Gambier Hospital as one of four regional hospitals in South Australia,

an aging community, child care needs, growth in community and home based services, and higher expectations and possibilities for health care, have all contributed to this increase.

At a national level, forecasts for employment growth in this sector

are very strong, with employment growth averaging 3.4% per annum for the period from 1998 to 2008. The Child Care services,

Hospitals and Nursing homes and Community Care services areas are projected to have strongest growth. These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Key employment in this sector in this region is in Hospitals, medical and other health care services, residential care and social assistance. This industry has 53.6% of its workforce aged 45 years and over. 84.8% of its workforce is female. 43.6% of the workforce is in full time work. The majority of health and community services enterprises within the region have less than 20 employees.

HEALTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES

EDUCATION

Demand for employment in the region has risen in the census period 2001 to 2006 by 5.2%. Demand in this sector is influenced by both the domestic and international economy. The ability of people to travel to retail centres and the increase of larger franchise and national brand stores is affecting smaller towns and enterprises within the region. As this is a sector which usually experiences high turnover as it traditionally has provided work for school students and young people, there are likely to be ongoing employment opportunities in the region.

At a national level, forecasts for growth are predicted to be slightly higher than other sectors, although these forecasts note

a level of risk when forecasting for retail. The largest growth is

expected in specialised food retail, supermarket and grocery stores and furniture, household and appliance retailing. A slight decline is projected in household equipment repair and motor vehicle retailing. These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Key employment in this region in this sector is in food, motor vehicle and motor vehicle parts retailing.

This industry has 31.1% of its workforce aged 45 years and over. 58.8% of its workforce is female. 52.6% of the workforce is in full time work. The majority of retail enterprises within the region have

less than 20 employees.

RETAIL TRADE

Demand for employment in this sector has increased by 15.8% in the census period 2001 to 2006. Numbers of students in schools has remained reasonably static over the last five years. The establishment of a Centre for the University of South Australia and university courses by Southern Cross University in Mount Gambier,

the rise in age for compulsory school attendance and the delivery of a range of training by Registered Training Organisations, has influenced this increase.

At a national level, forecasts for growth in this sector are stronger

than the average across sectors, but are subdued against growth in the past five years. Growth is expected to be strongest in school education and other education (which includes such sectors as ballet schools, nursing and theological colleges). Growth is projected to be slower in post school education. Changes in Government policy have the potential to affect these projections. These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Key employment in this sector in this region is in pre-school

and school, and tertiary education. This industry has 48.2% of its workforce aged 45 years and over. 76.7% of its workforce is female. 61% of the workforce is in full time work. The majority of education enterprises within the region have less than 20 employees.

Demand for employment in this sector in this region increased by 7.9% in the census period 2001 to 2006. Increases reflect trends to eat out and to buy prepared food.

At a national level, forecasts for employment growth are slightly

above the average for all sectors. Growth is expected to be strongest in pubs, taverns and bars, and cafes and restaurants. These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Key employment in this sector in the region is in food and beverage and accommodation. This industry has 33.4% of its workforce aged 45 years and over. 72.8% of its workforce is

female. 38% of the workforce is in full time work. The majority of accommodation, café and restaurant enterprises within the region have less than 20 employees.

Extending this section to include broad based tourism, increases workforce participation and new demand in services and nature based tourism attractions, including the World Heritage Listed Naracoorte Caves, the recently proclaimed Kanawinka Geo-Park and the "MacKillop Phenomena".

Industry based tourism is strongly related to the region’s key food and wine sectors, with much of the employment related data contained in the agriculture, forestry and fisheries statistics.

Demand for employment in this sector in this region grew by 6.8% in the census period 2001 to 2006. With an increased freight load in the region as the blue gum plantations are harvested, this growth can be expected to rise strongly.

At a national level, forecasts for growth in the sector are at

slightly higher than the average across all sectors. Within the

sector, storage, water, and services to air transport are projected to have the strongest growth, while other areas remain steady. These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Key employment in this sector in this region is in road transport and postal and courier pickup and delivery. This industry has 48.4% of its workforce aged 45 years and over. 72.5% of its workforce is male. 75.2% of the workforce is in full time work. The majority of transport and storage enterprises within the region have less than 20 employees although the region is home

to the national K&S Freighters Group and the privatively owned Scott’s Transport Group, both of which employ several hundreds of people in the region.


ACCOMMODATION, CAFES AND RESTAURANTS

TRANSPORT AND STORAGE

Demand for employment in this sector in this region grew by 28.1% in the census period 2001 to 2006. A strong economic cycle, residential property strength and low interest rates have contributed to this. Current economic circumstances have slowed this growth.

At a national level, forecasts for growth are projected to be higher than the average across all sectors, but subdued against past growth. These projections do not take the current global financial crisis into account.

Key employment in this sector in this region is in building construction and construction services. This industry has 36.7% of its workforce aged 45 years and over. 88% of the workforce is male. 83.6% of the workforce is in full time work. The majority of construction enterprises within the region have

less than 20 employees.

CONSTRUCTION


Economic and employment growth into the future will come from the retention

and strengthening of existing industry, new business and industry investments and targeted diversification with the aim of driving population growth in the region to 140,000 by 2030.

Strengthening existing industry sectors will focus on retaining agriculture and food production, forestry and wood processing as key drivers, complimented by enhanced investment in modern value adding processes and business services and community facilities. New investments

will be part of the restructuring of some

industry sectors, in the face of changing global economies and new opportunities.

New business and industry investments

are likely to be in the areas of renewable energy, especially

aimed at capitalising on the region’s key natural advantages. Wind, geothermal and ocean wave capabilities, together with an abundance of bio-mass fuels coming from the extensive plantation forest base and possibly from purpose grown fibre crops have the region well placed as a renewable energy hub. Intensive agriculture including horticulture expansion and food production and processing is also likely to expand as other areas face water security issues.

Targeted diversification needs to be driven in partnership with Governments through a shared vision for the expansion and development of regional communities. The Limestone Coast region has the capacity to play a lead role in that shared vision through its geographic location, abundant water resources for human needs, land use capability and a reliable infrastructure base on which to build.

The region should be a deliberate focus for hosting decentralised Government agencies as well as new introduced industry opportunities in the areas of advanced manufacturing, research and development, high technology and the services sectors.

To achieve the goal of growth in our economic base,

complementary investments must be made in the areas of enhanced infrastructure across all forms and in a collaborative response to an education, training and skills development program, which moves the Limestone Coast towards having one of the most advanced workforces in regional Australia.

Taking into account the growth aspirations outlined in this document, the development of a spatial plan should be a key priority.

FUTURE ECONOMIC GROWTH PROSPECTS

EDUCATION & TRAINING CONTEXT

The Limestone Coast region is diverse and productive - to stay competitive and to be innovative it needs to build the education and skills base of its community.

To build additional capacity to be a smart, competitive region, able to innovate and respond to change, the Limestone Coast needs a more highly educated and skilled population. Traditionally the region has been an agrarian community with skills passed on through family businesses. The impact of technology, legal frameworks, the globalization of markets, environmental considerations, political forces, competition and changes to the size and mechanisation of industry within the region mean that business and specific technical skills are needed if Limestone Coast businesses are to be competitive. The challenge is to provide access to education and skills development that is relevant and to build the capacity of education service providers.

The level of educational attainment in the Limestone Coast has grown over time, with significant growth in Certificate III and IV and Bachelor degrees, reflecting the growth in trades and professional jobs within the region. However, the region has significantly lower than state average qualifications and a low rate of completion of year 12.

Building the capacity of the region will have both economic and social benefits. Businesses that have the skills and capability to innovate and grow provide economic benefits for themselves and for the region. Individuals who gain new skills and qualifications are able to access a wider range of job and career opportunities and to make decisions that give them a secure future.

Investment in research facilities and capacity which is focused toward innovation is vital for ongoing growth and improvement in the productivity, profitability, competitiveness and sustainability of the region’s industries.

The Limestone Coast Region has 30 Reception-Year 7 (R-7) schools, 5 R-12 (including one with a TAFE centre, one with a kindergarten and one with a Child Parent Centre); 6 Secondary schools; 1 special education school; 2 Independent Learning Centres; and 16 kindergartens. The Catholic Education sector in the region is represented by one co-educational R – 12 school and two primary schools. There are three independent schools, including a co-educational R-12 school in Mount Gambier.

Access to vocational education is available through TAFE SA Regional, the largest provider of vocational education and training in SA, at its main campus in Mount Gambier and through learning centres in Millicent, Naracoorte, Bordertown and Kingston. There are a number of other Registered Training Organisations situated within the region as well as other training providers that work within the Limestone Coast on a needs basis such as South West TAFE. The scope of these organisations includes training in forestry, transport, retail, hospitality, business and agriculture. School based apprenticeships and traineeships are offered to young people in high need industries such as transport, agriculture and forestry, engineering, personal services, horticulture, allied health (nurses), often leading to full time work at the end of formal schooling.

Higher education is available both locally and through external delivery mode. The University of South Australia, through their Mount Gambier Regional Centre has offered undergraduate on campus studies across four disciplines since 2006. The Flinders University operate their highly successful Rural Clinical School and Southern Cross University offers forestry studies and Environmental Science. This much improved access to university studies was the result of extended planning and lobbying by a number of key organisations in the region led by a local university steering committee. Currently the Mount Gambier City Council is promoting a live, learn, imagine campaign promoting further education opportunities in the region. The campaign aims to increase the numbers of young people that remain in the region to study for tertiary qualifications.

In addition, external modes of delivery support Limestone Coast residents to study through a wide range of universities and regional training organisations. The region aims for an increase in higher education facilities, services, student study options and additional University, TAFE SA and apprenticeship places. The community perceives that the lack of tertiary education options on offer is leading to issues with skilling and retaining young people as they move outside of the region to attain this education.

The South East Education and Training Association (SEETA) exists independently as a forum for addressing the economic viability and sustainability of education, training and employment enterprises in the region and is well regarded for its work. Membership includes education and training providers, the employment services sector, industry, Local Government and State/Commonwealth department representation.

The region has two Independent Learning Centres which are located away from the “traditional” school site. One is located in Mount Gambier and the other in Naracoorte. In total there are over 200 students that are accessing these services and aiming to complete their SACE. The Catholic Education Sector also has a Flexible Learning Centre which has been in operation for 4 years. It has been highly successful in re-engaging students who were at risk of leaving school and was the foundation model for the other two centres.

The Limestone Coast region also has a Trade School for the Future which is located at the Grant High School campus. This will be another avenue for young people to access flexible training and education programs.

In 2008 there were 5918 students enrolled in secondary (including numbers from co-education R-12) schools across the Limestone Coast region by TAFE SA Regional and other regional training organisations.

The region also offers several learning options for students delivered through the VET program, including Automotive, Construction, Information Technology, Hospitality, Racing, Retail, Seafood, Agriculture, Engineering, Electro Technology, Furniture, Viticulture, Community Services, Business Services, Health, Tourism and Hairdressing.


In 2009 there were 640 traineeship and apprenticeship completions in the Limestone Coast area. This included 95 different trades and vocations. Customer Service (Retail) had the highest number of completions (112). Research data shows that in general young men are primarily employed in Retail, Accommodation, Construction, Manufacturing and Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing while young women tend to work in the Retail and Accommodation Sectors.

Breakdown of Apprenticeship & Traineeship

Completions by ANZSIC codes

Title No.

Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 58

Mining 0

Manufacturing 88

Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Services 44

Construction 43

Wholesale Trade 0

Retail Trade 155

Accommodation and Food Services 60

Transport, Postal and Warehousing 68

Information media and Telecommunications 7

Financial and Insurance Services 5

Rental, Hiring and Real Estate Services 9

Professional, Scientific and Technical Services 3

Administration and Support Services 56

Public Administration & Safety 1

Education and Training 5

Health Care and Social Assistance 12

Arts & Recreation Services 14

Other Services 12

In 2007 there were 838 apprentices and trainees in the region aged 15 to 24 years. The largest numbers of these were in the Manufacturing, Construction, Retail Trade, Accommodation, and Administrative and Support Services industries. (National

Centre for Vocational Education Research). This is not a clear

match for regional job opportunities.

The retention rate to year 12 has improved over the last five years, but remains below the state average. The Year 8 to 12

retention rate in Government schools in the Limestone Coast

in 2008 was 76.4%, approximately 8% lower than the State average.

Residents of the Limestone Coast have below average levels of school achievement, with twenty-eight percent having

completed Year 12, compared to forty percent for the State. Seventy-five percent of 16 year olds reported as attending secondary schooling in the area, compared to the State average

of seventy-eight percent.

Highest Year of School completed for

persons no longer at School, Persons

Aged 15 years and over

Highest Level of

Schooling

Limestone

Coast (n)

Limestone

Coast (%)

South

Australia

(%)

Year 8 4,850 10.4 8.4

Year 9 3,586 7.7 5.9

Year 10 9,958 21.3 17.8

Year 11 10,824 23.1 18.8

Year 12 13,423 27.8 39.6

Did not go to school 158 0.3 0.8

Highest year not stated 4,037 8.6 8.6

Total 46,836

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2006 Census


EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT

The level of educational attainment has grown over time in the

region, with significant growth in Certificate III and IV and bachelor degrees, reflecting the growth in trades and professional jobs within the region. The region has lower

than state proportions of individuals with a Degree or higher (6.7% compared with 13.0% for the state) and above average proportions of people with Certificate III or IV level qualifications. (2009 Limestone

Coast Regional Profile).


EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT cont.

Level of education not stated

Level of education inadequately described

Certificate I & II

Certificate III & IV

Certificate nfd(c)

Advanced Diploma and Diploma

Bachelor Degree

Graduate Diploma/Certificate

Postgraduate Degree

2006

2001

1996

0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 8,000

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Time Series data

People with a Bachelor degree or higher, work in greater numbers in the industries of Agriculture, Manufacturing, Education, Health and Community Services and Property Services. The high numbers in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing may point to increasing skill needs as enterprises become larger, use advanced technology for irrigation, forest management, pasture management and animal husbandry. People with a Certificate III or IV, work across all industries with higher numbers in Retail and Wholesale Trade, Construction, Manufacturing and Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing.


EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT cont.

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Expanded Community profile 2006

Cert I & II

Cert III & IV

Diploma

Adv Dip/Assoc Degree

Bach Degree

Grad Diploma/Cert

Postgrad Degree

0 200 400 600 800 1,000 1,200 1,400

Health/Comms Serv

Education

Prop/Bus Serv


Acc/Cafes/Rest

Retail Trade

Wholesale Trade

Construction

Manufacturing

Ag/Forestry/Fish

ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT

Description key natural resource features

The South East has many unique landforms and distinctive natural characteristics that have originated from a long, complex geological history. The region is characterised by a series of stranded dune ranges that rise between 20-50m above interdunal plains. These plains can be inundated over winter and host a variety on internationally recognised wetland systems including the RAMSAR listed Bool and Hacks Lagoons and part of the Coorong and Lower Lakes Wetlands. The region also hosts an extensive network of limestone sinkholes and caves, which includes the iconic World Heritage listed Naracoorte Caves.

The region has 378km of coastline which extends from just north of Salt Creek in the Coorong, south to the Victorian border. The resources that the coastline provides are the basis for many of the regions’ industries, including tourism and is valued for its scenic qualities, quality fresh seafood and for usage for recreational activities.

The introduction of South Australia’s Marine Protected Areas (Marine Parks) is proposed to further enhance and protect the marine environment and will compliment management and sustainability of the valuable wild catch fishery and the important tourism and business activity associated with the recreational fishing sector.

The region is home to a variety of flora and fauna and habitats that include heath woodlands and forestry, grassy woodlands, dry heath land and mallee, scattered tress, open water wetlands and rising springs. This range of habitats is home to a range of nationally threatened species. Many beaches are strongly influenced by wave energy and also offer a range of habitats for species including migratory birds listed under international conservation agreements.

The underground water resources in the South East are essentially contained within two regionally extensive aquifer systems, an upper, unconfined aquifer and a deeper confined aquifer. The unconfined aquifer is the principal source of underground water used in the SE NRM Region, given its relatively shallow location and good quality for productive purposes. This unconfined aquifer supports one of the most productive irrigated agriculture industries in South Australia. It is a major source of water for stock and domestic use, irrigated agriculture and for the forestry industry. The confined aquifer is separated from the overlying unconfined aquifer by a thick, low permeability clay-rich aquitard. The confined aquifer is used as the primary water supply for eight towns in the region and is also an important source of water for irrigation and aquaculture. The waters of both the confined and unconfined aquifers and key associated water dependent ecosystems are protected by water allocation plans which provide a framework for their sustainable management.

The surface waters of the region are largely of an ephemeral nature and support an important array of water dependent ecosystems across the South East. Four ephemeral and creeks

cross the SA VIC border, a key one of these, the Mosquito Creek, are important sources of surface waters for Bool Lagoon. Landuse change, post European settlement has significantly altered the landscape of the South East resulting in the loss of many areas of wetland habitat, with less than 6% of the original wetland extent now remaining. One of the key factors in this change over time has been the construction of a regional surface water drainage system, designed to move surface water from the landscape to enhance the productivity for agricultural purposes. The objective of managing the major land degradation issue of dryland salinity in the Upper South East has seen the implementation of the Upper South East Dryland Salinity and Flood Management Program. Emphasis is being placed on ensuring the existing and new drainage infrastructure is used for the dual purpose of managing salinity to protect productivity while seeking to, where possible, deliver water of appropriate qualities to supply water needs of wetlands of the region when it is available. Reliable rainfall and the dual aquifer system ensures that communities can exist and agricultural activities in particular can flourish through access to quality water resources.

Key skills and business services have evolved over time, in the areas of efficient water use technology and development, providing a further economic and employment benefit to the region and beyond, as those acquired skills can be used in other developing areas.

Thirteen major landscape features have been identified for the region. These landscapes support a diverse range of natural resources related industries including dryland and irrigated agriculture and forestry. The health of these landscapes it vital to the continued prosperity of industries and the regional economy.

This unique natural resource base gives the Limestone Coast region competitive advantage and will be one of the key drivers of community and economic growth.

Diverse agricultural production occurs in the region on a number of soil types, some of which are quite sub-region specific such as the famous wine producing terra rosa soils. When combined with the water resources described above, it is logical that this plan forecasts increased agricultural, food and wine outputs.

Tourism is a vibrant industry with the food and wine experience being a key component. Natural resources however, are a long term contributor to the visitor experience through access to the regions World Heritage Listed Naracoorte Caves, other cave systems which support underwater diving experiences, the Blue Lake in Mount Gambier and many widely acclaimed wetlands. Such diversity of natural resources can be utilised to underpin the uniqueness and potential that this region offers.


INFRASTRUCTURE CONTEXT

A common theme raised at community consultation level over recent years has been infrastructure and although the Limestone Coast region is relatively well served, there are gaps and weaknesses which impact on lifestyle and competitiveness in national and global markets.

Addressing those gaps and working in partnerships to substantially increase investment through a co-ordinated plan for key infrastructure, will be a major focus of the RDA Committee.

Road and rail links between the region, the Port of Portland and eastern seaboard markets via Melbourne and western markets via Adelaide, cater for the movement of freight into and out of the region. The Green Triangle Freight Action Plan, a Plan which embraces the Limestone Coast and Western Districts of Victoria, sets out a range of key investments needed to accommodate the current freight task and the significant increase in annual volumes which is expected in part due to new plantation timber resources, particularly blue gums. The Plan concludes that connections with Portland and the National Rail Network are imperative, as are much needed upgrades to the Princes and Riddoch Highways and the construction of important heavy vehicle detours around the town of Penola and to the expanding area north of the City of Mount Gambier, to ensure safe and efficient movement of freight. Formation of the Freight Action Plan embracing the wider Green Triangle region, illustrates the extent to which this highly productive region is connected to global markets in its strategic thinking and political leadership.

The South East Local Government Association (SELGA) recognises the

need to upgrade regional airports and has sought funding support to investigate the nature and level of investments required at a number of smaller airport facilities and the major regional airport at Mount Gambier, which currently has in excess of 100,000 passenger movements annually.

To further facilitate the growth plans outlined in this document, communications systems, especially voice and data capability through access to high speed broadband and improved mobile coverage, is critical. The highly productive region cannot afford to be disadvantaged by having un-predictable and in-efficient access to modern telecommunications systems.

Connections to energy sources are generally good with electricity supplied from a regional loop which connects with the National Grid through access points at Tailem Bend and via the interconnector which runs from Adelaide through the region and into Victoria via Heywood.

A natural gas pipeline (SEAGAS) traverses the region from the Otway

Basin in Victoria through Naracoorte and onto Adelaide. That pipeline has off-take points, with the main one connecting to the Katnook

gas fields just south west of Penola. Natural gas is supplied to key industries in the lower part of the region and is reticulated to domestic customers in Mount Gambier. Further reticulation overtime to other

regional centres, such as Millicent, Penola and Naracoorte, would assist with industry development and population growth.

One of the major industry growth opportunities for the Limestone Coast is in renewable energy in the form of wind, geothermal, bio-mass and wave energy and the region’s connectivity with the National grid is a key advantage for proposed new investments.

Because of the region’s reliable and generally abundant surface waters, an engineered drainage scheme to increase access to highly productive agricultural land, has been in place for several decades. Important maintenance and reinvestment in that infrastructure is an essential part of our infrastructure planning, so that agricultural productivity continues to be enhanced through managed draining of much of the area. An important goal will be to ensure that over time, more value

can be extracted from the drained waters, either through selective aquifer recharge or diversion for other productive or environmental benefits.

Consistent with the broad objectives of this Plan, key social infrastructure in the form of health services, education and public transport systems, all need attention and investment.

The region currently has access to its own GIS planning capability

through the South East Resource Information Centre, which is one of

only a few similar organisations in Australia. This facility is very much

under-valued in terms of the capability it has and which can translate into significant value for money as a planning and scenario setting tool. Ongoing investment certainty is required so that it can continue to be an important and powerful aid to regional planning and so that it can be further developed as the regional data and information hub.

The region has multiple air services on a daily basis into and out of Mount Gambier from Melbourne and Adelaide. Flight time to these centres is approximately one hour. Mount Gambier Airport is the main regional facility, which is planned for upgrades to allow for increased capacity and services, expanding on opportunities for tourism and air freight traffic. Smaller regional airports are important support for air charter, Royal Flying Doctor, emergency services, industrial purposes and fire fighting through the use of aerial 'water bombers'.

The region is serviced by a network of roads including the Dukes, Princes and Riddoch Highway. Arterial roads within the region are open to B-Double transport vehicles.

Rail services in use in the region are confined to the line which runs from Adelaide through Bordertown to Melbourne. Unused railways within the region exist from Heywood in Victoria, through Mount Gambier to Millicent and from Mount Gambier through Penola and Naracoorte to Wolseley near Bordertown. Reopening of these lines would entail gauge conversion to broad gauge to match adjoining rail services.

Should a resumption of freight rail services occur through re-opening of the regional network, it would be desirable to plan for a new rail alignment north of Mount Gambier, connecting the existing north-south corridor with the line running east towards the Victorian border and onto Heywood.

The region uses the Port of Portland for movement of commodities into and out of the region. The Port of Portland is an important naturally deep water bulk commodity port, which has undergone recent significant capital investment to cater for large volumes of woodchips and log from the region’s expanding plantation forests, as well as grain, aluminum ingots, mineral sands, livestock, liquid pitch and fertilizer products.



Energy Infrastructure of the South East of South Australia

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONTEXT

Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast has a requirement

for engaging the community:-

• To be an effective conduit between the Limestone Coast community and local, state and federal governments;

• To increase awareness of RDA role and activities and government priorities and programs;

• To take leadership in facilitating the community to take advantage of Government programs and services;

• To maintain effective and timely communication mechanisms; and

• To obtain regional feedback on issues and opportunities.

Strategies will be put in place to work in partnership with and communicate with all stakeholders, business, industry and the community more generally.

The RDA will use the media and other available printed and electronic means to promote activities, programs and other issues of community interest, as a means of increasing the profile of the RDA and generating interest and participation in a whole of Government range of services and programs.

Existing positive relationships with a wide range of stakeholders in the community and active involvement in existing committees associated with health, education, employment, training, business, community groups, not for profit organisations and local government also enable us to quickly communicate and work across the region.


STAKEHOLDERS

Australian Government

Building a stronger, fairer Australia that is prepared for the challenges of the future is a key priority of the Australian

Government. A variety of Government policy and programs will impact on improving the economic viability and competitive advantage of regional communities, including (but not limited to):-

• Powering Ideas an Innovation Agenda for the 21st Century • Skills for Sustainable Growth strategy • Building the Education Revolution (BER) • The 2010 Intergenerational Report

• Federal Consultation with health professionals and the Australian people

• Regional and Local Community Infrastructure Program • Nation Building Plan for the Future (including the

establishment of Infrastructure Australia)

• National Transport Regulation • Infrastructure Employment Projects • National Bike Path Projects • Better Regions Program • Local Government Reform Fund • Local Government Financial Assistance Grants • The newly announced Regional Australia initiative


RELATIONSHIP TO GOVERNMENT POLICY AND PLANS

RDALimestone

Coast

All Departments & Agencies

SELGA:-City of Mount GambierDistrict Council of GrantKingston District CouncilNaracoorte Lucindale CouncilDistrict Council of RobeTatiara District CouncilWattle Range Council

All Departments & Agencies

EmployersIndividual Residents

Education

Business and Industry

Community Members

Service Providers

Industry Groups

Representative Groups

Health

Employees Utilities

Investors Infrastructure

Social Services

Australian Government

Regional Community

State Government

Local Government


State Government

The South Australia Strategic Plan targets have been based around 6 key building blocks:-

Growing Prosperity

South Australians want a dynamic economy that is competitive, resilient and diverse. The state’s prosperity should benefit all citizens. Our growth will be managed in an environmentally sustainable way. Investors will be drawn to South Australia because of the quality of our workforce, the vitality of our

communities, the efficiency of our government, and our reputation for innovation.

Improving Wellbeing

South Australians should enjoy a good quality of life at every stage of life. Our children should be able to grow up in a safe environment, to acquire knowledge and be equipped to make the right choices. As we mature, we need to stay connected to the community and to the environment, even as our roles change and priorities shift. We need to be in charge of our lives and not unreasonably constrained in our options.

Attaining Sustainability

South Australians value the natural beauty of our state. We are

concerned about the depletion of natural resources and want to minimise the impact of human activity on the environment.

Our legacy must be a thriving and well-cared-for environment. The challenge of sustainable development requires the focus, commitment and ingenuity of all South Australians.

Fostering Creativity and Innovation

South Australia has a reputation for innovation in science and in the arts. We understand that our prosperity depends on the imagination, courage, talent and energy of our citizens. We want to reaffirm South Australia as a place that thrives on creativity, knowledge and imaginative thinking. This capacity to do things differently will determine whether we can achieve all our goals for the state’s future.

Building Communities

Democratic practices – founded on principles of free expression, equity and tolerance – are the foundation of a well-functioning society and a healthy economy. Our citizens aspire to be well-informed and engaged in decision-making. We value community cohesion and inclusion, but resist insularity. Our regional populations and our migrant communities give us diversity; they enrich and invigorate the state.

Expanding Opportunity

Placing a value on knowledge is fundamental to securing a successful, cohesive and vibrant society. Literacy is crucial from the early years. Skills for living and working become vital in adult life. All South Australians must have the opportunity to reach their potential, and to continue to learn and develop throughout their lives. Giving a helping hand to those in need is a central tenet. An educated and inspired community, actively participating in the work, life and health of South Australia, is our best legacy for the future.

98 Targets are set against a number of objectives which are aligned to the 6 principle Building Blocks. Former Regional Development Boards in South Australia, which have now transitioned into the Regional Development Australia framework, undertake a range of program and service delivery linked where-ever possible as contributing towards achieving some of those 98 targets.

Local Planning

Regional plans developed by other key regional organisations across the Limestone Coast were consulted to ensure consistency of goals, including:-

• South East Local Government Association • Local Councils (City of Mount Gambier; District Councils

of Grant, Kingston, Robe and Tatiara; and the Naracoorte Lucindale and Wattle Range Councils)

• South East Natural Resources Management Plan • The Limestone Coast Workforce: Analysis of supply, demand,

emerging trends and opportunities and strategies for regional workforce development

• Partnership Broker, Limestone Coast Environmental Scan • Country Health SA through the local Health Advisory Councils’

10 Year Health Services Plans. • Green Triangle Freight Action Plan

RELATIONSHIP TO GOVERNMENT POLICY AND PLANS cont.


Consultation as part of preparing this Regional Roadmap was a two step process. The first part of the process involved the RDA LC Board undertaking an extensive consultation process as a mechanism to underpin development of the following planning documents:-

• 2010-2011 Business Plan, • 2010-2013 Strategic Plan • Regional Roadmap (2010 – 2015)

As well as a half day workshop held for all RDA Board Members, seven forums where held across the Limestone Coast region, as follows:-

15th March 2010 Coonawarra

16th March 2010 Robe

17th March 2010 Bordertown22nd March 2010 Millicent23rd March 2010 Kingston24th March 2010 Mount Gambier

29th March 2010 Naracoorte

Forums were publicly advertised through local media outlets and some 180+ personal invitations were sent to various regional

stakeholders including Local Government, industry and business associations, government agencies and community groups.

Through the work of the former Limestone Coast Regional

Development Board and Limestone Coast Area Consultative Committee there were already significant relationships in place with a variety of regional stakeholders and it is those linkages, together with the regional forums, that allowed the Board to gather intelligence about those issues and opportunities that fit within the Charter of Regional Development Australia, and upon which the Board can act.

In developing the suite of planning documents simultaneously it has allowed strong linkages between documents and also ensures the work of the Board is focused towards our main Charter: Ensuring the long term sustainability of the Limestone Coast

region. There is strong alignment between all three planning

documents and Commonwealth, State and Local Government priorities.

Compilation of this current version of the Regional Roadmap has taken place following further consultation with a range

of identified key regional stakeholders, to ensure the currency of information regarding existing plans, current issues and opportunities for the future were included. Regional research undertaken by the University of South Australia has been accessed to assist in the production of the Roadmap document.

CONSULTATIVE MECHANISMS

STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK

• Health is clearly seen as a high priority area for both the maintenance of existing levels of service and more importantly new and expanded services, in terms of attracting and maintaining population in the region. Patient Assisted Transport Scheme subsidies are deemed to be inadequate. A number of patients still need to travel out of the region for specialist services. Mental health services available in the

region are not adequate to meet a growing need. The ageing workforce in the health sector generally is a concern. It will

be important that smaller regional health facilities will not

be disadvantaged as a result of major capital works funding being directed to major regional hospitals in South Australia. No specialised facility in the region to care for dementia sufferers. The health sector has experienced strong growth over the last ten years and is predicted to continue this growth, particularly as the population profile is aging and expectations around medical care are expanding.

The major regional Hospital at Mount Gambier is one of

four key facilities in regional South Australia, targeted for expansion in service delivery capacity into the future. Current funding for the Hospital fails to take into account what is essentially a ‘mini metropolitan’ type service being provided.

Flinders University has a presence within the region as a provider of third year medical student course work and placement through the Rural Clinical School program, which

adds increased focus on the medical and allied health training programs available within the region. The University of South

Australia has a Bachelor of Nursing degree and TAFE SA Regional delivers a range of health related courses, all from Mount Gambier. To build on these initiatives so that they are sustainable and act as an attraction and retention strategy

for the health and medical workforce, a research centre for health could be considered.

• Community endeavour most regularly centres around sport. Funding facilities upgrades and working with sporting and community groups in the delivery of programs will lead to better outcomes in terms of social connectedness, physical exercise and preventative health care. The region has been active in lobbying for increased State Government funding for ageing sport, recreation and community infrastructure to complement new initiatives such as, Be Active and the Obesity Prevention and Lifestyle (OPAL) programs.

• Provision of more health services could be achieved over time through initiatives such as:-

• A quota system being introduced for provider care numbers which ensured rural and regional locations were mandated.

• Bonded University placements for health and allied health professionals.

• A regional housing roundtable has been established with the aim of addressing homelessness, which whilst not always obvious in some parts of the region is a serious issue.

• Humanitarian and skilled migrants and their families require significant social support, cultural awareness and other services to ensure positive settlement outcomes.

• Inter-regional transport and transport services to Adelaide in particular are deemed as inadequate to meet the needs of people, particularly those needing to access health and medical services.

• The growing need for nursing home beds and disability and aged care facilities are expressed as areas to be worked on.

• The industries most at risk in terms of an aging workforce are Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing; Education; Health and Community Services; and Transport, which all have around 50% of their workforce aged 45 years or over. Health and Community Services, Construction and Education have shown strong growth in the period between census 2001 and 2006. At a national level, forecasts for growth are expected to remain strong in these sectors. Discussion and strategies to build the workforce for these industries needs to be coordinated and

focused. Retail Trade, Accommodation, Cafes and Restaurants and Transport and Storage have shown moderate growth. Manufacturing has remained steady and Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing has seen a decline. Discussion and strategies to accelerate demand in these industries through new product or process development, value adding or services to industry need to be coordinated and focused.


KEY ISSUES IN THE SOCIAL CONTEXT

KEY ISSUES IN THE ECONOMIC CONTEXT


• There are opportunities to further build on capabilities in water management and use and to target green industries and the greening of existing industries.

• Renewable energy including wind farms, bio-mass, geothermal and wave power were seen as important areas to further develop. The renewable energy sector needs to have coordinated across agency support. To value add to this sector, the development of a maintenance centre for sustainable, renewable energy, together

with a hub for innovation and research and development could be positioned in the region. A number of renewable energy projects are either in place, planned and committed or under consideration. These are situated on the coast and Lower South East. They include:-

• Geothermal projects with a range of companies including Geothermal Resources Ltd (the Crower project), and Panax Geothermal Pty Ltd (the company Hot Dry Rocks is providing consultancy services to Panax Geothermal).

• Wind power projects are already providing power and income in the region, with additional projects being built and planned. (In excess of 200 wind turbines exist predominantly in the Lake Bonney region.)

• Wave energy is being investigated for areas off the southern coast of the region.

• Biomass projects using forest residues and seaweed are either in place or at an advanced or conceptual planning stage.

The Climate Institute commissioned McLennan Magasanik Associates (MMA) to assess the potential contribution of

renewable energy to regional employment. MMA concluded that South Australia is expected to see renewable energy output grow by over 200% by 2020 and is one of the States to most benefit from renewable energy projects. The report estimated clean energy investment from committed and planned projects in South Australia to be $87 million for biomass, $2,122 million for geothermal and $6,076 million for wind.

This growth would lead to 788 permanent jobs and 3798 peak construction jobs in South Australia. The Limestone

Coast is seen as a clean energy ‘hot spot’ and the report anticipates 497 permanent jobs (both existing and new for operation and maintenance), 2,858 peak new construction jobs and new local expenditure of $1,202 million (goods and services, purchase of biomass materials, payments of rent to farmers for wind turbines) in the region.

In addition there will be indirect employment opportunities in the manufacturing of equipment and the provision of services and materials, some of which will be within the region.

• Consultation with the private sector should be ongoing to monitor and respond to policy or other barriers that mitigate against the investment and reinvestment plans of our manufacturing and processing sectors in particular, for example the impact on Kimberly-Clark Australia resulting from a

decision to drop anti dumping duties on imported toilet tissues. Consultation and commercial review should also form part of any investigation into the possible impact on our regional

economy and community resulting from the proposed forward sale of up to three ForestrySA forest rotations.

• Given the availability of water both through the underground aquifer and rainfall, food and beverage production is seen as an area for expansion. Aquaculture/seafood/marron, specialty field crops, high value irrigated produce, niche crops, dairy, horticulture, gourmet meat and cool climate crops are all suggested value adding processes including bottling, contract packaging and distribution and consolidators for marketing produce are seen as important to lift these sectors from “hobby” to a profitable and sustainable business level. Technical support, particularly in the area of agriculture and horticulture, has been reduced over time and could be counter-productive to the region’s growth potential in those fields. Soil type, climate and water availability are key drivers for further investment in horticulture and food production generally throughout the region. Regional branding of produce is seen as an opportunity to further increase the value of food production but also to increase the value of the regional food, wine, tourism sector. Food, wine, tourism is identified as a growth area and should include development of outlets for local produce, including more centralised hosting of farmers markets.

• To build on current learning and skill development initiatives in health so that they are sustainable and act as an attraction and retention strategy for the health and medical workforce, a research centre for health could be considered.

• Land use within the region has changed over time, with matching changes to employment needs. The land use generating the highest employment numbers per 100 hectares at farm gate

from a survey of sheep grazing, beef grazing, cropping, dairy farming, blue gum plantations and grape growing was grape growing followed by dairy farming. The land use generating the highest employment beyond farm gate is grape growing (winemaking). An understanding of the implications of land use on employment demand needs to be considered when looking at population growth, and further work on the employment needs of other land use needs to be carried out.

KEY ISSUES IN THE ECONOMIC CONTEXT cont.


• Population growth is an area where Government intervention from a strategic planning point of view is considered essential. The region has many benefits when competing for residents and needs to clarify and clearly define and promote these benefits. The potential residents to be targeted should add value to the region and could include young couples with and without children, young professionals, business entrepreneurs and investors and business owners seeking to expand or relocate. Marketing strategies need to emphasise the region as a place to work and live which has quality supporting and facilitating services. Regional communities need to develop educational, employment and recreational opportunities to attract and or retain young people in regions. The need for affordable housing as part of a plan to increase population growth is important. An aspirational population growth

target of 140,000 people in the region by 2030 should be established with the objective of working with all stakeholders and Governments to put in place strategies to achieve same.

• Planning was identified as an important process in identifying new industry development areas and that those areas were not compromised by urban development. Many participants commented on the need for Government to stimulate industry development in regions through a planned approach to State wide growth.

• The canonisation of Saint Mary of the Cross is identified as a huge opportunity, not only for Penola but the entire region and adequate local infrastructure and promotion will need to be developed to maximise opportunities from that event.

• The region needs to develop more tourism product around regional icons and infrastructure such as Cape Jaffa and Robe Marinas.

• Workforce Development is a key issue. The shortage of skilled labour, especially in a number of trades is a restriction on the growth of some regional businesses. Attracting professional

people, particularly in the health services area, into the region

is often difficult and we need marketing and promotional strategies to overcome that difficulty. Casualisation of the workforce has impacted on the ability of some people to access finance for housing and other requirements. Upskilling is an opportunity to increase workforce capability and can be addressed in partnership with Universities through local post-graduate studies.

• There was comment from many individuals and groups that the region needed to look at an expanded mix of options for tourists to the region. Gourmet food and wine, five star accommodation and associated conference/events and hospitality services, niche tours (sink holes, diving, wine, gardens, forests, coast line and beaches, 4 wheel drive, surf school, sailing), festivals, cultural tourism, environmental

tourism, geopark (Kanawinka) and Mary MacKillop’s canonisation were all seen as opportunities. The general

feeling of these comments was the need to better engage the high spending sector of the tourist market.

• Education and training is seen as a growth industry area and was acknowledged as an important contributor to the growth and well being of the region.

• Maintaining and sustaining schools should provide for more local decision making, in terms of distribution and use of available capital funding.

• There are opportunities for the Education sector to grow the number of students and the diversity of courses offered in the region. Current activity is focused on attracting international students and students from outside the region, career development for individuals, English language courses and post graduate studies for professionals. The opportunity for growth in the education sector would also translate into a need for an increased range of student accommodation options.

• Suggestions for other opportunities include brokerage for online and other distance education, research agencies, personal interest and lifestyle learning, recognition of prior learning, recreation as well as employment driven learning, expanded courses for viticulture, agriculture, horticulture, marine science,

organic food, aquaculture, engineering, water/irrigation, land management, logistics, environment, business leadership and management, and reskilling for career change.

• To enable this to happen, excellent linkages between all educational organisations – Schools, TAFE, RTO’s, Universities, will need to be in place. A draft Education sector strategic plan is at the discussion stage, which would facilitate these linkages.

• Education levels are rising but are still below the average in South Australia, with the exception of qualifications at Certificate III and IV level. Given the steadily increasing employment opportunities in skilled jobs there is a need to “sell” the benefits of skills development and learning. The use of Recognition of Prior Learning within the region is low and a concentration on this methodology would lift skills levels while acknowledging the learning people already have.

• The level of retention to Year 12 and completion of Year 12 in the region is low.

• Concerns were raised regarding the need for young people to leave the region for tertiary studies and/or some training programs.

• Mentoring was seen as an option for assisting the learning process whilst capitalising on the experience of many regional residents.

• A quota of University spots for rural and regional students could be beneficial in terms of graduates returning to work in their local communities.

KEY ISSUES IN THE ECONOMIC CONTEXT cont.

KEY ISSUES IN THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING CONTEXT


• Across its many forms seen as a high priority for economic and social development.

• Workforce accommodation continues to be difficult to obtain, especially in areas associated with major meat processing facilities and areas where seasonal workers are required.

• Local Governments have concerns around formulas associated with Financial Assistance Grants and other State programs, which increase Council costs at a local level, especially as it

applies to road funding.

• The regional airport at Mount Gambier is in need of upgrading, especially the capability and rating of the main runway and taxiways. Strengthening of the runway will also allow for increased passenger transport options and potentially allow for the movement of air freight. This will be an important

upgrade as part of the population growth strategy. A number of smaller regional airstrips should also receive regular maintenance and investment to meet demand on them.

• Access to broadband and mobile telecommunication services is still difficult in some parts of the region and it is hoped that the roll out of the National Broadband Network will in part address this problem.

• The bridge network associated with the South East drainage system is vast with some 800 bridges and culverts across the region and for which the funding to properly maintain and service that network of infrastructure for meeting today’s needs, is grossly inadequate. To the point where there may be longer term risks associated with ongoing use. The system should also allow a dual function in relation to aquifer recharge and access to some of the drainage water for agriculture and the environment.

• The Green Triangle Freight Action Plan is a key document for assisting Governments in funding decisions around the region’s road network upgrade and maintenance requirements. More urgent action on key sections of the plan

to accommodate increased blue gum freight is critical.

• An important extension of the Green Triangle Freight Action Plan concerns the poor state of repair of the Princes Highway from Kingston to 30kms south of Tailem Bend, via the Coorong, closing this region’s connection with Adelaide via the coastal route.

• The cost of energy in South Australia compared to other States is expensive and is seen as a dis-incentive in attracting industries and businesses to the region.

• The Limestone Coast region is blessed with a range of natural resource assets, including abundant water supplies. Participants expressed very clearly the need to maintain and protect those natural resources in a sustainable way, whilst

extracting maximum value for economic and community development.

• The regional Natural Resource Management Plan is a strategic tool and should be used in harmony with other regional plans.

• Maintaining the balance between the preservation of native vegetation and appropriate controls to ensure safety along roadsides and in areas of bushfire risk is important.

• Planning for economic development and urban expansion needs to be well informed so that good decisions in respect to the environment are made.

• The proclaimed establishment of Marine Protected Areas must be undertaken in such a way as to preserve the commercial and recreational fishing and tourism benefits associated with our use of the marine environment, in a way which is mutually beneficial.

• The Limestone Coast region has reliable rainfall and particularly in the lower part of the region, high rainfall

compared to other regions of South Australia. Skills in water management and the use of irrigation technologies is now at a high level across the region. Maximisation of skills and innovation will ensure best use of the water resource for

agricultural and productive purposes, as well as to ensure that the regulatory environment is well managed. There are opportunities to further build these skills and capabilities and to target green industries and the greening of existing industries.

KEY ISSUES IN THE INFRASTRUCTURE CONTEXT

KEY ISSUES IN THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT


• Lots of different players have plans and consultation processes – RDA needs to ensure that there are clear processes in place for consultation and engagement. The development of a sustainable process of information management (that is,

a regional data warehouse) would benefit the region. This could be used to gather data and information, and then be accessed by a range of organisations and individuals.

• Concerns were expressed over what can be described as cross border anomalies, which arise from the different State jurisdictions. The issue is emphasised because of the close proximity to the SA / Victorian Border for many of our regional residents and the connection of our communities to

various service centres and infrastructure, including the Port of Portland. Issues identified:-

• South Australian product exported from the Port of Portland is not included in the State Export values and therefore this region’s contribution to the State economy

and value of exports is not properly recognised. • State border is a barrier for some health service delivery

including ambulance services and post natal care. • Regulations prohibiting bus services on route from

Melbourne to Adelaide taking on passengers from Bordertown and Keith for example.

KEY ISSUES IN THE COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT CONTEXT

LONG TERM VISION AND GOALS

To ensure the longer term growth and sustainability of the Limestone Coast Region and the well-being of its communities, through:-

• Ongoing engagement with the community and the provision of advice, information and feedback to Governments, policy makers and stakeholders regarding issues and activities that are important to the development and well being of the Limestone Coast Region.

• Promotion and support of the policies, strategic plans and priorities of the Commonwealth, the State Government and the South East Local Government Association, that facilitate

community economic development outcomes in the region.

• Provision of services and undertaking projects that facilitate community economic development outcomes in the region that are consistent with the policies, strategic plans and priorities of the Commonwealth, the State Government and the South East Local Government Association.

A key overarching objective for the RDA is to harness regional

leadership capacity to such an extent that through the acknowledgement of Government, communities are empowered and motivated to take on the challenges of driving measurable results against the key priorities and goals set out in the Regional Roadmap.

On the formation of Regional Development Australia Limestone

Coast programs, services and roles previously undertaken by the former Limestone Coast Regional Development Board and Limestone Coast Area Consultative Committee, have been

picked up and continue to be an important part of the service and program delivery of the RDA.

Ongoing services and programs conducted in partnership with stakeholders, including the South Australian and Australian Governments are identified as part of the strategies attached to each of the goals in achieving the overall objectives of this

Roadmap.


MISSION

Vision“The Limestone Coast is a dynamic, sustainable region

which is well balanced where lifestyle, education

and employment opportunities contribute to overall

community well being; with diverse industries and

businesses competitive in local, national and global

markets; and where the environment and natural

resources of the region are highly valued.”


Goal 1 – Grow the economic base of the region

STRATEGIES:

• Work with all levels of Government to agree on a strategy and implementation plan to grow the region’s population to 140,000 by 2030.

• Promote and market the Limestone Coast as a region to “live, grow and achieve”. • Maintain the support of State and Australian Government Agencies to deliver a range of business advisory

services and programs. • Partner with industry and Government agencies to facilitate the export of regional goods and services into

national and international markets. • Support initiatives for new product and services, through innovation, value adding and research and development

programs.

• Target program funding for economic and community development initiatives. • Capitalise on renewable energy opportunities in the Limestone Coast.

Goal 2 – Infrastructure capacity to enable regional growth

STRATEGIES:

• Work in partnership with local Councils to achieve upgrading of the Mount Gambier Regional Airport and other smaller airport facilities.

• Ensure the region is a priority area for inclusion in national broadband and telecommunications strategies. • Use infrastructure capacity to leverage growth in renewable energy projects. • Support investment in regional drainage scheme infrastructures to maximise safety, agricultural production

and environmental outcomes. • Support partner organisations to achieve infrastructure investments to support social and community

services.

• Promote the RDA role and capability in the area of supporting regional strategic planning. • Increase regional GIS capabilities to assist regional planning. • Work with industry partners and Governments to deliver on the Green Triangle Freight Action Plan

implementation.

• Work with all levels of Government to agree on a strategy and implementation plan to grow the region’s population to 140,000 by 2030.

Goal 3 – Build the education and skills base of the region

STRATEGIES:

• Partner with Local Government and communities to develop a learning culture. • Partner with the education and training sector to continually increase local access to learning. • Increase post secondary course options in the region. • Support successful education and transition outcomes for young people through brokering partnerships. • Partner with State and Australian Government Agencies to promote and/or deliver programs that support skills,

career and workforce development. • Work with all levels of Government to agree on a strategy and implementation plan to grow the region’s

population to 140,000 by 2030.

Goal 4 – Improve the quality of life

STRATEGIES:

• Use the leadership capability of the RDA to participate, inform and engage with the community to drive social, environmental and economic outcomes.

• Build community leadership capacity. • Work with all levels of Government to agree on a strategy and implementation plan to grow the region’s


MISSION cont.


MISSION cont.

Goal 5 – Sustainability and leveraging growth off natural resource advantages

STRATEGIES:

• Work in collaboration with the South East Natural Resources Management Board to assist them to achieve the four strategic goals set out in their Regional NRM Plan.

Goal 1) Healthy landscapes supporting high value ecological communities Goal 2) Regional communities active in natural resource management

Goal 3) Resilient industries taking responsibility for sustainable use and management of natural resources. Goal 4) Leadership, adaptability and partnerships for effective natural resources management

• Create new wealth using our natural resource assets creatively and sustainably. • Work with all levels of Government to agree on a strategy and implementation plan to grow the region’s


Goal 6 – Engage the community

STRATEGIES:

• Maximise knowledge of and community benefit from Government programs. • Build and maintain relationships across the whole of Government and with regional organisations and industry,

for the benefit of the Limestone Coast and the wider Green Triangle Region. • Use marketing and promotional activities to ensure the RDA has a high public profile. • Work with all levels of Government to agree on a strategy and implementation plan to grow the region’s



REVIEW

This Limestone Coast Regional Roadmap will be a “living” document, which will constantly be under review to reflect progress and new issues and opportunities as they arise.

A key role of the RDA is play a leading role in the consultation and engagement process with all stakeholders, to ensure that current and emerging issues relating to our economy and the social and environmental needs of the community are considered and included in the revision process of the Regional Roadmap.

The structured process of review:- • RDA Members and Staff will monitor and note regular

feedback from all stakeholders. • RDA will participate in the planning and consultation

processes of stakeholders.

• An Annual Forum will occur where stakeholders, including local government, industry and community organisations will input to the review process.

• The RDA Board will conduct an internal annual workshop following the forum process.

• All RDA program delivery and service contracts to be reviewed for currency on an annual basis.

• The preparation of an Annual Action/Business Plan. • Make any amendments to the Regional Roadmap as needed.

The RDA will continue to communicate with all stakeholders on progress with the Roadmap including any revisions of the document.

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