Australian Local Government Association

Regional Business Development Analysis (RDBA)

Introduction

In August 2001, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services, the Hon John Anderson MP outlined the development of an action plan for sustainable regional business growth. In June 2002 an independent Panel was appointed to develop this plan based on an analysis of the issues faced by regional business.

Submission to RBDA panel

This submission is a commentary consistent with ALGA's general position of support in principle for enterprise zones. Regrettably due to time constraints the submission has not been fully considered by ALGA Executive and therefore should in no way be taken to reflect ALGA's formal position on the matter of enterprise zones.

Response to RBDA Plan for action

In response to the RBDA Plan for Action ALGA regrets that economic zones have not been recommended as a way forward for regional Australia. ALGA believes that the reasons given for the rejection of economic zones are not adequately justified and the benefits have not been fully considered.