The Institute for Sustainable Regional Development at Central Queensland University (CQU) has identified five key issues and trends that will help make the Far North Queensland (FNQ) region “more liveable” for the next 20 years.

With population of the region expected to grow by 50 per cent by 2020, the CQU study suggests that government agencies, industries and community organisations need to consider the particular needs of small and medium sized business.

Bill Blackwood of the Institute for Sustainable Regional Development at Central said issues such as cleaner production, environmental management, regional branding and clustering are being addressed by CQU, in conjunction with the Department of State Development. “A 94-page report highlighting a number of strategic directions for future development in the region identified regional clustering as an effective tool in promoting regional development,” Mr Blackwood said. “Clustering links businesses, industries and public agencies together in various partnerships to support existing industry and to foster new development. “With increased business activity and employment opportunities on the rise, effective growth management systems must be in place to avoid environmental degradation and increased social problems.” Minister for State Development Tom Barton said the ‘liveability’ report, prepared by CQU researchers together with his Department, also identified regional branding as a key component to growth. “Tourism, transport, retail and food industries offer the greatest opportunity for collective branding and business collaborations,” Mr Barton said.

“People travel the world over for FNQ’s local, natural and fresh foods. “Moreover, the region leads the world in tropical reef and rainforest preservation and management. “With Australia’s world-class science infrastructure, its ecosystems and its experience with natural heritage management, the FNQ region could likely become the global headquarters for major environmental issues.” Mr Barton said his Department of State Development supports CQU’s Institute for Sustainable Research each year by providing $200,000 in funding.

The report, which emphasized the importance of education and training, recommended that a Regional Sustainability Task Force be established to develop a whole-of-region approach that will involve the community in developing frameworks and capacities to respond to the growing needs of the region.

END Note: Copies of the report may be obtained by calling 4048 1126.