1.2 Purpose

This document provides an analysis of the factors shaping our world and consequent opportunities for the economic and social development of the region. It sets out key principles for guiding future investment and decisions. It incorporates the ideas and thinking of the public sector, local government, industry and community bodies. It is based on solid evidence and on consulting regional stakeholders, leading to a suite of investment proposals.

Regional Development Australia – South West (RDASW) has worked substantially with the region’s local government bodies to provide the best possible advice to both Commonwealth and Western Australian Government on the region’s strategic imperatives.

The framework for Regional Futures is based on investments that support a prosperous society where business creates jobs and the whole community is supported in the context of a healthy natural environment.

The framework is based on three pillars:

• Economic infrastructure
• Industry, business and investment
• Community and environment

It is intended to link the pillars, demonstrating that prosperity and sustainability should and must go hand-in-hand.

While the document may dare to dream, a key intent of Regional Futures is to present a robust rationale underpinning actions that are achievable over differing time horizons. The evidence-base is derived from a variety of statistical, academic and planning sources as well as:

• An understanding and recognition of the region, its economic history and values;
• Analysis of national and global megatrends that will shape the future in a significant and material way;
• Analysis of more than 50 Commonwealth, state and local level planning strategic documents; and
• Analysis of the region’s key determinants of long-term regional growth within recognised regional development principles of human capital, sustainable communities, access to markets and comparative advantage all brought together through working in partnership.

These considerations lead to actions underscored by identified priority areas that are geared to generating jobs and prosperity in the region. It is important to note these actions do not represent funding commitments by Government but rather set out a broad direction for exploring action agendas.

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