RAPAD: Back the Region that Backs Itself

The seven regions of central western Queensland are appealing to political parties and candidates running for the state election to back the region that backs itself.

The Remote Area Planning and Development Board (RAPAD) is launching its state election priorities and RAPAD Post COVID-19 Central Western Queensland Recovery Plan to start a conversation with the state’s future leaders.

“RAPAD has a plan to empower, connect and support communities in the central west to prosper, we will be sharing this vision with all political parties” said Chair and Longreach Mayor Tony Rayner.

“The plan is focused on population growth, job creation and developing our strengths and investing in our industries for economic growth – we are asking for all political candidates to back the region that backs itself,” Councillor Rayner said.

The region is asking for $60m investment over the next five years to;

• empower the region through energy and education
• connect with better road and air services
• strengthen agriculture through land management
• support local businesses to prosper

“By delivering our plan the region can expect a new manufacturing centre underpinned by renewable energy, a regional centre of excellence, critical roads upgraded, an increase economic output from the agriculture sector of more than $17m and increased spending on the tourism sector as well as other initiatives,” he said.

“Any dollar invested, any collaboration formed will have a greater return on investment in central western Queensland because of the drive, innovation, production capability and hard work matched by the local community, it makes good sense to back the region that backs itself,” he said.