DETAILS of the State Government's $20 million plan to revitalise the Riverland as a key economic and community hub of South Australia have been unveiled.
Regional Development Minister Michael O’Brien will today launch a prospectus that aims to help create a more diverse industry base and promote further investment in existing businesses.
The prospectus sets investment targets of an additional $500m and an increase in population of 7000 people over 20 years.
“The Riverland has a proud history of growing quality food and wine, which has underpinned the region’s economy and contributed to the export efforts of the state,” Mr O’Brien said.
“The Riverland Prospectus recognises that while irrigated horticulture and agricultural production will continue to support the region’s long-term viability, the economic base must also evolve and diversify, building upon its strengths and competitive advantages.”
The Rann Labor Government had allocated $20m over four years to implement the plan.
“This investment represents the payment of a social dividend to the Riverland, which for many years has been a significant driver of the state’s economic success,” he said.
“The compound effect of irrigation cutbacks, drought, low commodity prices and the wine glut created a unique set of circumstances that required government intervention.
“This is not a handout. It’s the foundation upon which SA can leverage Commonwealth assistance and encourage business to co-invest.
“The re-election of a Gillard Labor Government ensures a stronger national focus on regional areas that will potentially build on SA’s commitment and help secure the Riverland’s future.”
Mr O’Brien said the Prospectus was based on four pillars of diversification: Alternative food production and processing; aged care and retirement development; education; and tourism.
He also announced the first drawing from the fund – a $2m contribution towards the creation of an education precinct in partnership with Flinders University in Renmark.
“The realisation of this concept will enable Riverland people to study in the Riverland, retaining and developing social capital in the district,” he said.
Mr O’Brien commended the Riverland Futures Taskforce for its work on the Prospectus.
The taskforce was formed in early January 2009 as a partnership between the State Government, Berri Barmera Council, District Council of Loxton Waikerie, Renmark Paringa Council, Riverland Development Corporation, and SA Murray Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board.
“As the inaugural chair of the taskforce, I appreciated working with a group of enthusiastic, dedicated people,” Mr O’Brien said.
“This has been a genuine partnership between state and local governments, with significant community and business input.
“I’m confident the Riverland community will embrace this unique opportunity to shape its future.”
