The RAPAD region comprises the seven local government areas of Central West Queensland - Barcaldine Regional Council, Barcoo Shire, Blackall Tambo Regional Council, Boulia Shire, Diamantina Shire, Longreach Regional Council and Winton Shire (see map below). It covers a total area of 396 609 km² and accounts for 22.9 per cent of the land area of Queensland.
Central West Queensland is one of the most sparsely populated and remote regions in the state.
Its population of more than 12 500 people is expected to remain steady over the next 20 years. Longreach is the major rural activity centre in Central West Queensland and services an area of almost 420 000 square kilometres.
The region is geographically, demographically and cultural diverse, offering a wonderful quality of life and range of opportunities for those willing to discover its charms. Communities are typically described as friendly and welcoming.
Outback Queensland, like the rest of the state, is experiencing unprecedented change and development. While current projections suggest that the regions population will remain consistent into the future, the current expansion of business, industry and infrastructure the region is changing the face of communities.
The growth and development of geothermal energy, the information and communication technology sector and tourism and organic industries are bringing new faces, skills and enhancing lifestyles across the region.
