The West Coast Economic Working Group has presented its final report, delivering a long-term strategy to help reinvigorate and diversify the region’s economy.

Established by the Premier after the Mt Lyell mine closure, the working group was charged with identifying opportunities to create new jobs on the West Coast.

Our interim report in October focussed on projects in the short-term to provide a jobs stimulus, while our final report looks to the future at the steps needed to transition the region’s economy by enhancing other industries alongside mining.

Cabinet agreed to the Working Group’s request to bring forward $750,000 in election commitments to the West Coast, and invest a further $2.471 million in local projects recommended by us after wide consultation.

In addition, the Liberal Government has brought forward major road improvements to boost economic activity in the region.

A range of projects are now underway, and are providing valuable employment and training opportunities across the West Coast.

What the working group has delivered in six months is a result not only of the hard work of our members, but also of the ideas of a great many West Coast residents who have overwhelmed us with their enthusiasm and their ingenuity.

The Liberal Government’s support for the West Coast does not end with the working group’s final report.

Rather, this work will guide our efforts to help this region achieve its full potential by encouraging the development of a more diverse local economy to sustain local employment.

As chair, and on behalf of the Government, I would like to thank all the members of the working group and all those West Coasters who have shared our commitment to building a stronger West Coast.

Please note: The West Coast Economic Working Group’s Final Report, including a list of projects under the West Coast Economic Diversification Strategy, will be available online from this afternoon on the Department of State Growth’s website – www.stategrowth.tas.gov.au
Adam Brooks, Liberal Member for Braddon Chair, West Coast Economic Working Group