Chamber president John Anderson was responding to the Federal Government’s announcement this month that its $2 billion Regional Accelerator Program was available to fund “transformative” projects around Australia.
Mr Anderson said transport, housing and education would provide the foundation for a growing economy.
“To grow the economy is to ensure we have excellent transport for people and goods,” he said.
“Hence road infrastructure, such as the Shepparton bypass, and more train services, as well as, eventually, a larger and better airport for larger aircraft.”
Mr Anderson said another crucial aspect was more housing in the region, especially Shepparton.
“We need the opportunity for more housing,” he said.
“There is a shortage of land zoned for residential housing in Shepparton.”
Mr Anderson added that a further expansion of tertiary education in the Goulburn Valley was also essential to further expand the region’s economy.
“We are certainly getting there with La Trobe University and now Melbourne coming with postgraduate medicine, but I think we need further expansion of course availability from the key universities and then excellent training facilities for apprentices and TAFE students,” he said.
Mr Anderson said continued expansion of non-government school opportunities providing a diverse choice of secondary and primary schools could also benefit the region.
He added, though, that business development had to be complemented by excellent and available water, describing that element as crucial.
