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BUSINESS PLAN 2020 – 2021
I hereby acknowledge that the RDA Barwon South West Business Plan for the period 1 July 2020 – 30 June 2021
is fair and true to the best of my knowledge.
Sincerely
Bruce Anson
Chair
Regional Development Australia – Barwon South West
31 August 2020
Regional Development Australia – Barwon South West
Level 2, 237 Ryrie Street, Geelong VIC 3220
PO Box 1877, Geelong VIC 3220
Phone: 03 5215 6000
Email rda.barwonsouthwest@rdv.vic.gov.au
www.rdv.vic.gov.au/regional-development-australia/barwon-south-west
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Contents
Section 1: Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 4
Summary of Key Achievements and Learnings from July 2019 to June 2020 ........................................... 4
RDA BSW Committee Members................................................................................................................. 7
RDA Governance and Resources ................................................................................................................ 9
The Executive ............................................................................................................................................. 9
Key Stakeholders ...................................................................................................................................... 10
Communications Strategy ........................................................................................................................ 10
Section 2: Regional Context....................................................................................................................11
Regional Development Victoria ............................................................................................................... 12
RDAs & Regional Partnership Integration ................................................................................................ 12
Regional Collaboration ............................................................................................................................. 12
Industry and Trade ................................................................................................................................... 13
Delivery of Australian Government Programs ......................................................................................... 14
Reports and Advice to Government ........................................................................................................ 14
Annual Reporting including Expenditure, Outcomes and Business Plan ................................................. 14
Section 3: Strategic Priorities and Business Activities .................................................................15
Section 4: Operations & Risk Management .....................................................................................22
Operational Parameters........................................................................................................................... 22
Risk Management .................................................................................................................................... 22
RDA Committee Work Health and Safety (WHS) ..................................................................................... 23
Section 5: RDA BSW Table of Outcomes & Activities...................................................................24
Attachments
1
RDA BSW Economic Recovery Submission to Commonwealth
2
RDA BSW Communication Strategy
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 3|P a g e
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
SUMMARY OF KEY ACHIEVEMENTS AND LEARNINGS FROM JULY 2019 TO JUNE 2020
For much of this period Regional Development Australia Barwon South West (RDA BSW) comprised of the
Chair and two members. In March this year we welcomed a new and enthusiastic committee, whose industry
knowledge and insights has proved invaluable as the economic crisis of COVID-19 pandemic swept the nation.
Our committee members, new and old, have a strong history of collaboration across our region, and frontline
experience dealing with the impacts of coronavirus in their businesses and communities, which has allowed
us to provide real and meaningful advice to all levels of government as we move towards recovery.
Key activities that have been undertaken by RDA BSW since the inception of the new committee include:
Coordinating a series of working groups, with the region’s two Regional Partnerships and other
stakeholders, to develop a whole of region response to economic recovery focusing on the challenges
and impacts of COVID-19 (Attachment 1 – RDA BSW Economic Recovery Submission to Commonwealth).
Developing a consolidated, regional perspective on the impacts and actions required to support
recovery, leading to the formation of a number of industry-specific action groups which are now
driving the recovery of their own industries.
The recent participation in a series of regional roundtables, hosted by Victoria’s Regional Partnerships
to facilitate swift action which will stabilise the region’s economy and community now and in the
future.
RDA BSW will continue to target economic growth and employment in the region, helping communities and
businesses get back on their feet as quickly as possible. Our immediate focus is job creation and we are
working with all levels of government to drive investment in local economic stimulus projects, ensuring any
skills gaps are addressed quickly and local supply chain opportunities are realised.
Whilst the negative impacts of coronavirus are significant, restarting our economy does present a unique
opportunity for business transformation and growth, allowing our region to redesign its economic foundations
and create a more resilient and prosperous economy.
There is a clear sense of urgency required in addressing the immediate implications of COVID-19 as we move
rapidly to build a bridge to stabilisation and economic recovery and as a Committee, we stand ready to
partner, support and provide further assistance to ensure the action we all take now in response to this
pandemic can set our economy and community up for success in the 21st Century.
We look forward to providing ongoing support to our regional stakeholders and delivering strong outcomes
for the region on behalf of the Australian Government.
Bruce Anson
Chair
Regional Development Australia – Barwon South West
31 August 2020
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 4|P a g e
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA (RDA) IS A NATIONAL NETWORK OF 52 COMMITTEES MADE UP OF LOCAL LEADERS WHO WORK WITH ALL LEVELS
OF GOVERNMENT, BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS TO SUPPORT THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THEIR REGIONS
OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES HAVE BEEN REFRAMED WITH AN ECONOMIC RECOVERY LENS DUE TO THE IMPACTS OF COVID-19
STRATEGIC FOCUS
Build 21st Century Digital Capability – for our region to remain economically competitive and recover from the impacts of COVID-19, investment in digital infrastructure is required urgently. Reliable connectivity
will activate business transformation and growth by driving investment in digital platforms, technology and digital skills development.
Revive and Reimagine Our Visitor Economy – leverage our region’s world-renowned natural assets and the $370 million public investment in the Geelong City Deal to drive private sector investment in high-value
tourism and Indigenous cultural tourism product development opportunities.
Diversify and Strengthen our Economic Foundations – pathway prospective new high value opportunities, taking advantage of the region’s comparative advantages and latent potential.
Create Skills and Education Fit for the 21st Century – urgent support needed to activate the economic contribution of the education sector in our region (deeply impacted by COVID-19), as well as medium and
longer term need to ensure a strong and well aligned pipeline of people with the skills and capabilities required to meet industry demand - now and in future.
Switch on Clean Energy and Green Collar Jobs – harness compelling regional advantages including the skilled manufacturing workforce to create a path to a greener energy grid, new fixed and distributed power
applications and a potential new export sector and facilitate establishment of circular economy waste as a resource project.
OUTCOMES
1. Increased economic opportunities and investment in the Barwon South West
2. Increased trade and job creation
3. Cooperative effort with all levels of government, industry & regional stakeholders leads to improved economic development outcomes
4. Achieve Government program objectives
5. Maximise access to Government programs and grants
6. Advice supports development outcomes
HOW
Facilitate whole of region response through stakeholder engagement and working groups to understand the economic impact and develop an agreed way forward to support a strong and unified approach to
economic recovery from COVID-19.
Provide advice to government on actions and interventions required to support the needs of sectors hardest hit by COVID-19 - the tourism, events, hospitality, arts, entertainment, retail and university sectors -
and ensure there are localised pathways that support targeted economic recovery for these sectors.
Work with government to fast track investment to deliver improved digital infrastructure critical to enabling transition and recovery in our region.
Invest in regional initiatives that enable high value growth and diversification opportunities that will support our regions recovery and transformation – Great South Coast Economic Futures Implementation Plan;
Creative Industries Strategy for G21 region; Brand Geelong Stage 2; A Road Map for Commercialised International Education, Training and Innovation in Farming and Agribusiness and targeted Portland
diversification opportunities.
Work with our Regional Tourism Boards to drive agile and targeted tourism marketing campaigns that encourage visitor volume and value opportunities that can respond to restrictions as they occur and ease.
Build 21st Revive and Diversify and Create Skills and Switch on Clean
Century Digital Reimagine our Strengthen our Education fit for Energy and
Capability Visitor Economy Economic the 21st Century Green Collar
Foundations Jobs
Visitor Economy Digital Economy Advanced
Agribusiness Healthcare Renewable Energy Work anywhere
Tourism ICT Manufacturing
RDA CHARTER
Working in close partnership with fellow RDA Committees, all levels of government, and the private sector, RDA Committees will:
1. Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to identify economic opportunities and leverage private and public-sector investment to the regions;
2. Connect regional businesses, councils and industry sectors with international trade partners, financial markets and potential investors;
3. Promote and disseminate information on Australian Government policies and grant programs to state and local governments and industry, business and community sectors;
4. Support community stakeholders to develop project proposals to access funding;
5. Develop and maintain positive working relationships with the local government bodies in their regions;
6. Facilitate public and private sector decentralisation;
7. Assist in the delivery of Australian Government programs, where relevant and where requested by the Minister;
8. Engage with regional entrepreneurs and emerging business leaders to explore new opportunities to grow local jobs in their regions;
9. Provide information on their region's activities and competitive advantages to all levels of government, industry, business and community sectors; and
10. Provide evidence-based advice to the Australian Government on critical regional development issues positively and 5 | Pnegatively
age affecting their regions.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 6|P a g e
RDA BSW COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Bruce Anson – Chair
Bruce has extensive committee experience, having chaired the Regional Development Barwon South West Committee since its inception in 2009.
His time in local government spans over 42 years, including serving as CEO of Warrnambool City Council (2008 – 2019).
Bruce has also been a member of the Deakin University Leadership Group, South West Sustainability Partnership, State Government Regional Transport Advisory
Group, Regional Cities Victoria Group, and the Warrnambool Community Leaders Group.
With a keen understanding of the issues driving coastal cities as well as the challenges facing rural economies, Bruce is looking forward to helping implement the
Geelong and Barwon Economic Futures plans. They focus on energy, agriculture, aquaculture, advanced manufacturing and materials and tourism, with growing
population and skills an essential element to delivering the outcomes.
Key wins during his career include working with Commonwealth government and industry to establish the Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) for the Great South Coast region
and establishing the need to upgrade the Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, resulting in $108 million for the enhancements as part of the Geelong City Deal.
Elaine Carbines AM - Deputy Chair
Elaine is a true regional devotee, having lived and worked in Barwon South West for 27 years.
Elaine is CEO of G21 Geelong Region Alliance, as well as being a Director of Barwon Water, AWA Alliance Bank, G-Force and a former member of State Parliament.
In 2020, Elaine was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to conservation and the environment.
As a former Parliamentary Secretary for Environment, Elaine oversaw several key conservation projects and the implementation of policy including the
establishment of Marine Parks and Sanctuaries in Victoria and the creation of the Great Otway National Park.
Whilst working for Parks Victoria, Elaine was responsible for the community consultation for the redevelopment of the Queenscliff and Portarlington Harbours and the establishment of a
kiosk at the Twelve Apostles.
At G21, Elaine led consultation for the development of the G21 Regional Growth Plan and led advocacy for the Geelong City Deal for Geelong and the Great Ocean Road region.
Peter Dorling – Peter has over a quarter century of experience in local government, primarily in economic and strategic development.
Peter was previously Executive Director of the Committee for Geelong and is currently the Business Manager for Avalon Airport, where he’s responsible for
harnessing local and international business development. Through his connections from around the globe at Avalon Airport, he’s well placed to advise on ways to
increase the tourism output of the Barwon South West region.
Peter holds a Masters in Business Management from RMIT and has extensive lived experience, having studied city development in the United States, England,
Scotland, New Zealand and China.
Peter played a key role in driving the CBD redevelopment of the Greater City of Geelong through Vision II, which was initiated by the Greater City of Geelong.
Anita Rank – Anita brings a wealth of experience in business, industry and health services to the RDA table.
In 2012, Anita was elected to Glenelg Shire Council, where she has held the title of Mayor for four consecutive years.
Not only does Anita represent the RDA on the Great South Coast Regional Partnership, she also holds Directorships with Portland District Health, Active Health
Portland, The Committee for Portland and Great Ocean Road Regional Marketing.
In addition, Anita chairs the Community Advisory Committee for Portland District Health, Headspace Portland, the Great South Coast Suicide Prevention Taskforce
and the Rail Freight Alliance and has been Executive Officer at Portland YMCA for the past decade.
Anita has lived and worked for 20 years in the Great South Coast Region, as well as spending 10 years in Ballarat and 20 years in Bendigo. She is well versed in how
to make rural and regional Victoria an attractive place to do business, and understands the importance of promoting manufacturing, digital connectivity, mental health strategies plus food
and fibre in regional communities.
Darryl Mohr – A committee member since 2015, Darryl brings over 30 years’ experience in financial services to the role, including time spent as COO, State
General Manager and National Industry Segment Head (Agribusiness).
Darryl is currently Deputy Chair at The Gordon TAFE in Geelong.
Darryl has held executive leadership positions during the past 18 years with several Top 10 ASX listed companies. He holds CPA accreditation, is an Australian
Institute of Company Directors graduate and in 2019, completed the prestigious Wharton Business School – Global Advanced Risk Management program in
Philadelphia. Other strings to his bow include completing the Harvard Business School Global Agribusiness seminar in Boston USA (2012) and in Shanghai (2014).
With that background, Darryl is well equipped to offer insight into the key economic drivers needed to deliver enhanced community and regional outcomes for all
stakeholders in Barwon South West.
Andrew Westlake – Having worked in Warrnambool for 23 years and in Geelong for the past three, Portland-born Andrew has deep personal insight into the
needs of regional communities.
Andrew has notched up a quarter century of experience in senior executive roles in the food processing and animal nutrition sector, including extensive external
stakeholder engagement in project management, business leadership, new business development, land planning, OHS, environment and industrial relations.
Andrew’s current position at Ridley Agri – one of the largest animal feed nutrition manufacturers in Australia – involves travelling throughout regional Victoria and
New South Wales visiting major red meat and poultry food processing facilities and engaging with industry leaders in metropolitan Melbourne.
Involved for 40 years in small, medium and large enterprises, Andrew brings skills in international and local relationship building and economic recovery and
growth. He also knows how to advocate for new and sustainable employment opportunities and how to encourage business confidence.
Andrew has been a Committee Member of Regional Development Australia (Barwon South West) since 2012.
Grant Sutherland – Grant is currently CEO of South West Victoria at Deakin University and has lived and worked in Barwon South West for most of his life.
Prior to this, Grant was the CEO of Kangan Institute, CEO of The Gordon Institute and a Business Development Manager at Boeing Australia.
International postings have played a big role in his career. In the education sector, Grant has worked in Hong Kong, Vietnam and China while in aviation he has
gained experience in North America, Europe and the Middle East.
Grant has also held a number of regional board appointments including Director of the Great South Coast Group Board, President of the Geelong Chamber of
Commerce, Chair of VECCI Regional Committee and Board Member at Barwon Health Foundation, Skilling the Bay, Committee for Geelong, Northern Futures and
Geelong Manufacturing Council.
In terms of skill set, Grant is adept at collaboratively leveraging the strengths and capabilities of the region to create new jobs and transition local sectors to a higher value, high yield
economy with enhanced employment opportunities for all members of the community.
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RDA BSW COMMITTEE MEMBERS
David Spear – A senior executive who holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Queensland (Mt. Eliza Business School) – has
established and led regional development organisations in Victoria, Queensland and Canberra. David enjoys delivering projects that create positive humanitarian,
social, economic and environmental outcomes.
As well as being the founding Executive Officer of Geelong Sustainability Inc.’s new social enterprise, GreenLight, David is an advisor to global not-for-profit Talent
Beyond Boundaries (TBB), which puts skilled refugees into jobs in safe countries like Australia, the UK and Canada.
Geelong born and a student at The Geelong College, David was instrumental in the development of the ‘G21 Region Plan: A Sustainable Growth Strategy’ plan
when working as Manager of Strategy and Research at the G21 Geelong Region Alliance (G21).
David has also served as a Senior Officer of Local Government, reporting to the CEO and Council at the Golden Plains Shire on economic development initiatives.
Other roles include founding CEO of Fraser Coast Opportunities in Queensland and General Manager at The Regional Australia Institute (RAI), a Canberra-based economic development
think tank.
Liz Price – As well as being the inaugural General Manager of Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism Board, Liz is Chair and Director of Great Southern Touring
Route and a Member of the Victorian Tourism Industry Council Destination Policy Committee.
A natural leader, her previous titles include General Manager Australia at Club Tourism Publishing, CEO of Destination Melbourne and a Board Member of
Western Melbourne Tourism.
Liz began work with the Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism Board in 2014 and moved to the region in 2015. Although based in Torquay, her role enables her to
traverse the region in its entirety.
Her strength lies in tourism and business events, having worked in that realm for three decades. Career highlights include establishing Destination Melbourne as
the regional tourism association for Melbourne in 2001 and managing the merger of AAA Tourism and AA Travel in New Zealand.
Armed with a Masters of Marketing and Masters of Business Administration, and with extensive networks across the region and through the state and national tourism sector, Liz is keen
to support the development of a more sustainable region across key industry sectors.
Dr Michael King – Is a proven business and community leader who has played a significant role in business development, particularly in Victoria.
Born in Geelong, Michael has worked there continuously since 1983 following positions in the Premier’s Department in Melbourne and the Agent General’s office
in London.
Michael has taken on board chairmanships and directorships for large community interest, sports administration and public utility organisations and his board
experience is underpinned by a strong track record of building and running successful businesses.
Previous titles include Chair of Barwon Water, Director of Cricket Victoria, Deputy Mayor of the City of Geelong, Director of G21, Director of the Gordon Institute
and Deputy Chair of St Laurence (since merged and renamed GenU).
Michael holds a Doctorate of Business Administration (RMIT), a Master of Business Administration (Deakin) and a Master of Leadership (Deakin), plus he’s a Fellow of the Australian
Institute of Company Directors.
With strong contacts across government, community, industry and educational bodies, Michael is well placed to help deliver projects across the full remit of RDA, particularly in building
partnerships with business and increasing their digital capacity.
Peter Brown – Having spent most of his life in rural Victoria, Peter took the reins as CEO at Colac Otway Shire in July 2018, bringing with him more than three
decades of experience in local government, and strong qualifications in economics and management. Peter has a Bachelor of Economics, a Graduate Diploma of
Business (Accounting), a Graduate Diploma of Management, and is a Fellow of CPA Australia (FCPA).
Prior positions include CEO of Horsham Rural City for seven years, Director of Corporate Strategies with Warrnambool City and Chief Executive of Wimmera
Uniting Care.
Peter is also a current board member at G21, Barwon Regional Partnership and the Great Ocean Road Taskforce.
Significant projects Peter has helped develop over the years include Horsham Performing Arts Centre, the Wimmera Intermodal freight terminal and the
Wimmera Weather Radar.
With a committed focus on helping to nurture the potential of the Barwon South West, Peter can draw on his expansive network, which includes local government CEOs and councillors
and state government politicians and bureaucrats.
Brendan Ryan – A former Councillor and Mayor of Corangamite Shire, works as a Contract Manager for Pacific Hydro wind farms.
Brendan joined the wind industry in its infancy in Australia as a technician at Yambuk wind farm back in 2004. In 2006 Brendan became part of the construction
management team for five wind farm builds in the Mid North of South Australia before joining joined AGL Energy in 2012 as Victorian Wind Farm Operations
Manager, which encompassed the $1 billion-dollar Macarthur Wind Farm and $300 billion Oaklands Hill Wind Farm.
In 2016 at TW Power Services Brendan managed a contract for three wind farms, which has recently expanded to capture another three wind farms throughout
Western Victoria.
By working in the wind industry for over 16 years, Brendan has cultivated an extensive regional, national and international network, and as a local government
councillor, he has worked as part of a team to successfully lobby for natural gas connection to Camperdown and Terang.
Brendan’s core strengths are in helping local industry develop manufacturing and service offerings for new technologies.
Alison McLeod – A general manager with multi-disciplinary commercial experience at a national level, Alison’s services involve strategically advising the
residential property sector.
Her work sees her often liaising with the development and finance industries, the disability sector and public policy advisors - particularly in terms of housing
affordability, rentals and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).
An accomplished Property Valuer through formal education and experience across multiple asset classes with significant experience in both metropolitan and
regional markets, Alison sits on the board of Unison, and is a member of the API National Educational Standards, the Property Council of Australia’s Residential
Developers, and Housing Affordability Committees.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 8|P a g e
RDA GOVERNANCE AND RESOURCES THE EXECUTIVE The RDA BSW Committee is supported by several key Executive positions. Their roles are described below: Chair – The RDA Committee Chair leads a diverse organisation of individuals working in a complex environment to deliver high value outcomes for the community and the region. The RDA Chair provides strategic direction and leadership to the RDA Committee and ensure corporate governance arrangements are effectively designed and implemented. Deputy Chair – Deputy Chair assumes the role and duties of the RDA Chair, whenever the Chair is not available. The Deputy Chair also plays an important role in supporting the Chair in day-to-day matters. Director, Regional Development – Manages the day-to-day affairs of the RDA Committee and its personnel consistent with the RDA Charter, Funding Agreement and Better Practice Guide, the Committee’s Regional Plan, Annual Business Plan and budget. The Director provides strategic and operational leadership across the organisation and will promote the region’s activities to all levels of governments, industry, business and community sectors to highlight competitive advantages and encourage decentralisation and relocation opportunities. Manager, Regional Planning & Coordination – Provides overall corporate services management and executive support to the Director, the RDA Chair and Committee. Project Coordinator – Oversees RDA projects, record keeping, reporting activities, including the management and monitoring of the Commonwealth and State grants programs. The Project coordinator provides strategic, financial and executive administrative support services to the committee, the Director and the Regional Planning and Coordination Manager. RDA BSW office facilities are provided by RDV at each end of the region in Geelong and Warrnambool: GEELONG WARRNAMBOOL Level 2, Harrison Place 703 – 709 Raglan Parade 237 Ryrie Street, Warrnambool, Victoria 3284 Geelong, Victoria 3220 Telephone – 03 5561 4135 Telephone – 03 5215 6000 Email rda.barwonsouthwest@rdv.vic.gov.au Web address is http://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/regional-development-australia/barwon-south-west Twitter account is http://twitter.com/#!/rdabarwonsw RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 9|P a g e
KEY STAKEHOLDERS RDA BSW will provide links to key stakeholders across the region and aim to connect regional businesses, councils and industry sectors with international trade partners, financial markets and potential investors. RDA BSW will continue to work closely with and maintain positive working relationships with the local government authorities in our region. RDA BSW will support community stakeholders to develop project proposals to access funding where the project aligns with regional priorities and leverages funding from the other levels of government. The following is an indicative list of the key stakeholders that RDA BSW will engage with in achieving regional priorities and outcomes: • Regional Development Australia • Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine • Barwon Regional Partnership • Grampians Tourism • Great South Coast Regional Partnership • Discovery Coast • G21 Geelong Region Alliance • Three Local Learning and Employment Networks • Great South Coast Group • Barwon Health • Committee for Geelong • South West Healthcare • Committee for Portland • Deakin University • Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative • Gordon TAFE • Gunditjmara Aboriginal Co-operative • South West TAFE • State and Federal MPs • GeelongPort • Local Councils • Port of Portland • Victorian Government departments • Avalon Airport • Australian Government departments • Local business incubators • Geelong Chamber of Commerce • Major employers • Geelong Manufacturing Council • Peak industry bodies • Barwon Water • Wannon Water • Great Ocean Road Region Tourism • Southern Rural Water COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY A communications strategy has been developed for RDA BSW. The communications strategy aims to define how RDA BSW will engage with stakeholders and leverage new and existing channels to promote the work of the committee and the priorities of the region. (Attachment 2 – RDA BSW Communications Strategy) RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 10 | P a g e
SECTION 2: REGIONAL CONTEXT The Barwon South West regional context is unique in Victoria and, indeed, Australia. Within the region is Victoria’s second biggest city, Geelong, which has a strong sense of identity and is experiencing population growth more than most other regional cities in Australia. The region comprises two sub-regions, Barwon and the Great South Coast (GSC). The Barwon sub-region encompasses the local government areas of Greater Geelong, Queenscliffe, Colac Otway and Surf Coast. The GSC encompasses the local government areas of Warrnambool City, Moyne, Corangamite, Glenelg and Southern Grampians. The residential population of the BSW region was 403,569 people in 20171. The region abuts the nation’s largest population growth corridor (west of Melbourne), and it is expected the region will reach a population of more than 480,000 by 2022. The BSW has three economies: one inland which is founded on agriculture; one on the coast that is dominated by tourism and amenity lifestyles; and one in Geelong which has a diverse economic and social base. The main industries are manufacturing, retail trade, health care, construction, education and training, agriculture, forestry, fishing and tourism. Manufacturing, health and retail trade are currently the largest employing industries, although the economy has significant opportunities for growth in new energy, advanced manufacturing and food security industries. Environmentally, the BSW enjoys higher than average rainfall and wind, providing us with ongoing competitive strengths in agriculture, food, renewable and clean energy production. The region also boasts nearly forty percent of Victoria’s coastline, including marine national parks, the Surf Coast, the Shipwreck Coast and the iconic Great Ocean Road. Beyond the coast are diverse and vulnerable landscapes including the UNESCO World Heritage listed Budj Bim, areas of State Forest and National Park, internationally significant wetlands, the Grampians and Otway Ranges and highly productive timber and agricultural land. The region has a wide selection of tertiary education providers including a multi-campus university, two TAFE colleges and various private providers operating throughout the region and a significant transport network, and infrastructure that includes Port of Geelong and Port of Portland, Avalon Airport, Princes Highway Transport Corridor, passenger and freight rail infrastructure. 1 ABS Census 2016 RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 11 | P a g e
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT VICTORIA
Regional Development Victoria (RDV) is the responsible agency for the delivery of the RDA agreement and has aligned and
integrated RDA into its regional delivery remit. This integrated RDV/RDA model is based on shared objectives, a collaborative
partnership, maximised effort and investment and aims to provide a clear vehicle for economic development activities and
advice.
RDV Policy and Strategy team assisted in the development of RDA Business Plans ‘Table of Outcomes and Activities’ in line
with the RDA Charter.
The ‘Table of Outcomes and Activities’ highlights RDAs working in partnership with RDV BSW Economic Development Team,
RDV BSW Investment & Trade team and other areas of RDV to compliment and benefit key deliverables for the Victorian
Government.
RDAS & REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP INTEGRATION
The Australian and Victorian Governments are committed to strengthening the regions and building stronger communities
through the RDA network. RDA Committees play an important role in their regions by focusing on economic development,
facilitating local projects that aim to make a difference for their local communities and promoting awareness of government
programs.
As part of efforts to support stronger integration between the work and priorities of RDA committees, Regional Partnerships
(RPs) and Regional Development Victoria (RDV), up to three RDA Committee members will sit on each RPs to ensure there is
Commonwealth representation and provide input and advice on priorities requiring Commonwealth investment.
RDA RP members will continue to deliver the requirements of the RDA Charter and support regional economic development
planning. RDA RP members will engage, through the RPs, on broader regional issues (economic, social and environmental)
and collaborate to leverage public and private investment in the region. This will strengthen RDAs capacity to provide
comprehensive advice on socio-economic issues and economic development opportunities for the Victorian and
Commonwealth Government to drive economic growth and investment and guide government grant programs and
investment decisions by:
• Capitalising on the Regional Partnership model and extend the benefits to the Commonwealth Government
• Delivering a direct entry point for country communities to communicate their priorities, articulate challenges and
seek solutions from both State and Commonwealth governments
• Reduce duplication and confusion, so the community can have their issues easily addressed by the appropriate
entity
• Improve identification of government and industry investment opportunities
• The response to region-specific priorities will be greatly improved through the connection of Commonwealth and
Victorian programs and strategies.
REGIONAL COLLABORATION
RDA BSW will continue to support the Victorian Governments post COVID-19 recovery in the BSW region, utilising funding
provided through the agreement between the Victorian RDA’s and Commonwealth Government.
RDA BSW will continue to provide strong leadership and support the development of regional response plans with industry
action groups driving COVID-19 recovery in the BSW region.
RDA BSW will play a lead role in contributing to the post-COVID 19 recovery ensuring rural and regional consideration are
embedded across all Victorian Government missions.
RDA BSW Committee will continue to progress and improve region specific priorities identified through connection of
Victorian and Commonwealth programs and strategies for the BSW region, including:
i. Regional initiatives that enable growth and diversification opportunities to support BSW recovery and
transformation – ie: Great South Coast Economic Futures Implementation Plan; Creative Industries Strategy for G21
region; Brand Geelong Stage 2; A Road Map for Commercialised International Education, Training and Innovation in
Farming and Agribusiness and targeted Portland diversification opportunities.
ii. Provide advice to both the Victorian and Commonwealth Government on the support needs of sectors hardest hit by
COVID-19 (tourism, events, hospitality, arts, entertainment and university sectors)
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 12 | P a g eiii. promote and advocate for investment for digital capability and opportunities in the region as a key role in COVID-19
recovery efforts.
iv. RDA Chairs and members will continue to participate in the Covid-19 teleconferences with Minister Marino and
RDAs across Australian to provide valuable local intel on Covid-19 recovery challenges and opportunities.
RDA BSW will continue to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to identify economic opportunities to leverage private and
public-sector investment in the region, grow regional prosperity and address complex issues such as growing jobs and
tackling disadvantage as this requires an integrated, collaborative approach between all levels of government, business,
community and individuals.
The BSW region boasts several mature and accomplished regional alliances, partnerships and networks. These organisations
undertake extensive community consultation to inform the region’s well-developed regional strategic plans, growth plans
and agreed regional priorities.
In recognition of the complimentary roles and differentiated responsibilities across these organisations, RDA BSW
endeavours not to duplicate the work of any of these stakeholder groups; rather we will draw upon the data, knowledge,
experience and opinions of these organisations, and add value to their endeavours by identifying opportunities to achieve
common objectives.
INDUSTRY AND TRADE
RDA BSW will continue to engage with organisations, industry, potential investors, entrepreneurs and emerging businesses
to:
create investment and job opportunities
connect them with business support, and investment and growth programs
connect them with export opportunities or export readiness support
RDA BSW have identified seven priority growth sectors based on two criteria: (1) alignment with the high growth sectors
identified by the Victorian Government, and (2) areas of regional competitive advantage. The priority sectors for the BSW
region are:
1. Agribusiness (Food and Fibre) 2. Renewable Energy
3. Healthcare, aged care, Medical Technologies 4. Visitor Economy – Tourism
5. Digital Economy – ICT 6. Advanced manufacturing
7. Work anywhere (decentralisation) 8. Higher Education
Potential to grow in BSW - The industries of the future will not be prominent everywhere. Specialising in areas of strengths
will be vital for these regional economies to thrive. Existing industries could be shifted so that they are more ideally suited in
a knowledge economy.
Transition - The region’s economy continues to undergo structural transition which has implications for labour force
participation, future industry structure and productivity of the economy.
The direct and indirect prospects for future employment - High growth sectors are not necessarily those where employment
number are growing. Automated and labour-saving technologies are disrupting all industries than others. This means that
some sectors, which have traditionally been large employers, are becoming less labour-intensive. However, the growth of
less labour-intensive sectors is still essential for regional prosperity since they may spur employment across related sectors
and supply chains.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 13 | P a g eIndicators for sector growth - There is no single indicator for sector growth. In some sectors, key indicators (such as output
and employment) may be trending in different directions – so it is important to consider which ones are relevant to
accurately demonstrate the economic trends and conditions in the BSW region.
DELIVERY OF AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS
The Australian Government delivers various programs and grant opportunities to business and local government designed to
create jobs, drive economic growth and build stronger regional communities into the future. This includes the Australian
Government’s commitment to decentralisation.
RDA BSW will assist the Australian Government in the delivery of these programs by:
disseminating information on Australian Government programs
assisting potential stakeholders to identify and develop strong project proposals that will contribute to long term
economic growth and is a priority within our region
working with applicants to prepare competitive applications, supporting documents and evidence
identifying decentralisation opportunities and advocating for these opportunities.
REPORTS AND ADVICE TO GOVERNMENT
RDA BSW will provide evidence-based advice to the Australian Government (and other levels of government where
appropriate) on critical regional development issues positively and negatively affecting the region.
ANNUAL REPORTING INCLUDING EXPENDITURE, OUTCOMES AND BUSINESS PLAN
JAN MAR AUG SEPT OCT DEC
Statement of Annual Business, Annual Report on Annual Certified
expenditure Comms Plan & Budget Outcomes & Budget Accounts
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 14 | P a g eSECTION 3: STRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
RDA BARWON SOUTH WEST TOP STRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
This year’s priorities and business activities have been reframed with an economic recovery lens due to the impacts of COVID-19.
RDA BSW strategic priorities
1. Build 21st Century Digital Capability – for our region to remain economically competitive and recover from the impacts of
COVID-19, investment in digital infrastructure is required urgently. Reliable connectivity will activate business transformation
and growth by driving investment in digital platforms, technology and digital skills development.
2. Revive and Reimagine Our Visitor Economy – leverage our region’s world-renowned natural assets and the $370 million public
investment in the Geelong City Deal to drive private sector investment in high-value tourism and Indigenous cultural tourism
product development opportunities.
3. Diversify and Strengthen our Economic Foundations – pathway prospective new high value opportunities, taking advantage of
the region’s comparative advantages and latent potential.
4. Create Skills and Education Fit for the 21st Century – urgent support needed to activate the economic contribution of the
education sector in our region (deeply impacted by COVID-19), as well as medium and longer term need to ensure a strong and
well aligned pipeline of people with the skills and capabilities required to meet industry demand - now and in future.
5. Switch on Clean Energy and Green Collar Jobs – harness compelling regional advantages including the skilled manufacturing
workforce to create a path to a greener energy grid, new fixed and distributed power applications and a potential new export
sector and facilitate establishment of circular economy waste as a resource project.
Build 21st Revive and Diversify and Create Skills and Switch on Clean
Century Digital Reimagine our Strengthen our Education fit for Energy and
Capability Visitor Economy Economic the 21st Century Green Collar
Foundations Jobs
RDA BSW key business activities
1. Facilitate whole of region response through stakeholder engagement and working groups to understand the economic impact
and develop an agreed way forward to support a strong and unified approach to economic recovery from COVID-19.
2. Provide advice to government on actions and interventions required to support the needs of sectors hardest hit by COVID-19 -
the tourism, events, hospitality, arts, entertainment, retail and university sectors - and ensure there are localised pathways that
support targeted economic recovery for these sectors.
3. Work with government to fast track investment to deliver improved digital infrastructure critical to enabling transition and
recovery in our region.
4. Invest in regional initiatives that enable high value growth and diversification opportunities that will support our regions
recovery and transformation – Great South Coast Economic Futures Implementation Plan; Creative Industries Strategy for G21
region; Brand Geelong Stage 2; A Road Map for Commercialised International Education, Training and Innovation in Farming
and Agribusiness and targeted Portland diversification opportunities.
5. Work with our Regional Tourism Boards to drive agile and targeted tourism marketing campaigns that encourage visitor
volume and value opportunities that can respond to restrictions as they occur and ease.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 15 | P a g eSTRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Build 21st Century Digital Capability
Urgent investment in digital infrastructure is required for our region to remain economically competitive and
recover from the impacts of COVID-19. Reliable connectivity will activate business transformation and growth
by driving investment in digital platforms, technology and digital skills development.
Key projects & initiatives supported by RDA BSW:
Address priority digital infrastructure supply shortfalls critical to enabling transition and recovery in our region, including
mobile coverage, and access to business-grade broadband to support improved digital connectivity in line with
recommendations in the region’s Digital Plans.
Resource our region’s established innovation precincts to provide impacted businesses with specific opportunities to
participate in business model adaptation and redesign programs - enabling transition of output and employment from
areas at risk into those that are growing and sustainable.
Establish targeted programs to address to digital skills gaps in industry sectors that need to shift from their current low
digital intensity to greater intensity to support technology adoption and competitiveness.
Investment in the digital connectivity in our schools will provide students and teachers access to 21st Century learning
opportunities.
Underpinning actions and business activities to activate priority
Work with the Australian Government to fast track investment addressing priority digital infrastructure supply
shortfalls, including mobile coverage, and access to business-grade broadband to support improved digital connectivity in
line with recommendations in the region’s Digital Plans.
Coordinate advice from across the Victorian RDA network to inform and work with the Australian Government to fast
track digital infrastructure priorities across regional Victoria.
Continue to work with all levels of government and drive the implementation of digital plans already in place with a
particular focus on industry and this as an enabler to drive business growth through innovative practices.
Advocate for improved digital infrastructure and capability building in education/training facilities to support students.
Provide advice to government on the need to provide job seekers and businesses impacted by COVID-19 with specific
opportunities to accelerate the development of digital skills focused on business model innovation and customer
acquisition – using our region’s established innovation precincts and programs.
Explore opportunities to improve access to skill development programs across the region, with an emphasis on building
digital skills in fields relevant to regional priorities, including IoT for agriculture, smart cities, utilities and environment.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 16 | P a g eSTRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Revive and Reimagine Our Visitor Economy
Leverage our region’s world-renowned natural assets and the $370 million public investment in the Geelong City
Deal to drive private sector investment in high-value tourism and Indigenous cultural tourism product
development opportunities.
Key projects & initiatives supported by RDA BSW:
Leverage Geelong City Deal & Great Ocean Road investment to encourage support private sector investment and
product development.
Leverage the region’s Indigenous and cultural assets including UNESCO World Heritage listed Budj Bim and Tower Hill to
unlock private investment to support Traditional Owner opportunities and new product development, supported by a
funded regional Aboriginal Product Development Officer.
Acceleration of private investment opportunities including Cape Bridgewater Resort, The Eden Project and Cape Otway
Road Australia.
Retention of existing airlines, and attraction new domestic and international airlines at Avalon Airport.
Establishment of the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority to streamline the governance of the Great Ocean
Road and implement the Great Ocean Road Action Plan enabling coordinated land management to support sustainable
tourism in the Great Ocean Road region.
Underpinning actions and business activities to activate priority
Provide advice to government on actions and interventions required to support the needs tourism, events, hospitality,
arts, entertainment and ensure there are localised pathways that support targeted economic recovery for these
sectors.
Advocate for programs to accelerate the development of digital skills focused on business model innovation and
customer acquisition – using our region’s established innovation precincts and programs.
Advocate for short term attraction/stimulus packages to assist local operators to remain in business post COVID-19.
Advocate for tourism industry development program resources enabling business re-building and transition initiatives to
support adaption of tourism businesses, and implementation of new tactical marketing campaigns timed to align with
approved easing of travel restrictions.
Advocate for Avalon Airport as a low risk ‘travel bubble’ for people to move between states, territories and other
nations – leveraging its geographic location, existing infrastructure, and existing quarantine facilities to limit risk.
Advocate to fast track funding and implementation of major projects in the region already approved and committed to
in the Geelong City Deal, prioritising business enablement and the construction of the Geelong Convention Centre, and
the Twelve Apostles Precinct.
Work with the Victorian and Australian Governments to build on the bilateral 10-year Geelong City Deal Agreement as a
framework for increased investment into current and emerging economic stimulus projects.
Work with stakeholders to support the creation a network system to maximise visitor dispersal and mobility across the
region to improve access to jobs, dispersal of visitors, reduction in congestion.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 17 | P a g eSTRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Diversify and Strengthen Our Economic Foundations
Facilitate business adaptation and industry transformation; and pathway prospective new high value
opportunities, taking advantage of the region’s comparative advantages and latent potential.
Key projects & initiatives supported by RDA BSW:
Fast track approval, funding and implementation to support investment in major projects that support high value
economic diversification in the region, with a focus on:
i. High-value agriculture - delivering sustainable high value food precincts critical to the nation’s food security;
ii. Renewable energy - as a priority industry sector and vital part of the future energy mix integral to supporting
economic growth and diversification in the region;
iii. a Portland Economic Diversification stimulus package (reference Portland Aluminium); and
iv. High-value tourism and Traditional Owner opportunities.
An Integrated Transport Plan for the Barwon South West that leverages our region’s nationally significant transport
infrastructure assets.
GeelongPort road and transport infrastructure upgrades to support the arrival of Spirit of Tasmania in 2022 and
export growth potential, providing a-year-round tourism and freight operator, providing less seasonal and more diverse
and sustainable opportunity that will lead to growth and job creation.
Secure Geelong based LAND 8116 and LAND 400 Phase 3 defence bids to manufacture self-propelled Howitzers and
supply vehicles; and Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV) and Manoeuvre Support Vehicles.
Fast track investment from the Victorian Higher Education Investment Fund to establish a National Centre of
Composite Materials at Deakin University’s Geelong Future Economy Precinct to support industrial scale capabilities
across the full composite value chain, leveraging the increasing opportunity in this fast-growing sector and utilising the
existing capability of the region’s advanced manufacturing industry.
Creation of shorter, diversified and more durable industry supply chains to create improved business continuity, and
greater sovereignty in the event global supply chains are disrupted.
Avalon Airport as a priority entry and exit point for state and international airfreight, leveraging its existing
infrastructure, geographic location, spacious site, and existing quarantine facilities.
Retention of the Geelong Australian Taxation Office to ensure jobs stay in Geelong.
Inclusion of local content and employment requirements as has been done through Geelong Region Opportunities for
Work (GROW) for the Geelong City Deal, and quotas for new apprentices and trainees in public infrastructure projects.
Underpinning actions and business activities to activate priority
Invest in regional initiatives that enable or pathway high value growth and diversification opportunities that will support
our regions recovery and transformation – Great South Coast Economic Futures Implementation Plan; Geelong
Economic Futures Plan; Creative Industries Strategy for G21 region; A Road Map for Commercialised International
Education, Training and Innovation in Farming and Agribusiness and targeted Portland diversification opportunities.
Assist with the attraction of public and private investment in projects and advocate for policy changes to support the
region’s food and agriculture sector to unlock high value opportunities and increase exports. (refer GSC Economic
Futures Plan).
Establish a cross regional working group with RDA Illawarra and RDA Hunter to progress priorities within the Australia’s
Gateway Cities: Gateways to Growth report.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 18 | P a g eSTRATEGIC PRIORITIES AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
Advocate for the development of an integrated transport / access strategy to leverage Avalon Airport, Geelong Port
and other nationally significant transport infrastructure across the region.
Work with stakeholders to support Avalon Airport to be a major freight hub and a priority entry and exit point for state
and international airfreight, leveraging its geographic location, spacious site, and existing quarantine facilities.
Advocate to fast track investment from the Victorian Higher Education Investment Fund to establish a National Centre
of Composite Materials at Deakin University’s Geelong Future Economy Precinct.
Work with stakeholders to attract funding and investment in the GSC Economic Futures and Geelong Economic
Futures.
Advocate for local and social procurement policy to be included in public funded infrastructure projects.
Advocate for domestic and international labour mobility pathways - enabling employers to directly recruit high-skilled
people to address key skills gaps and hard to fill job roles that are crucial for business continuity, growth, and essential
services.
Collaborate with the Australian RDA network to provide advice to the Australian Government on interventions required
to achieve a more balanced working population and access to skilled workers in regional and rural Australia.
Advocate to secure resources for our region’s established innovation precincts to provide impacted businesses with
specific opportunities to participate in business model adaptation and redesign programs - enabling transition of
output and employment from areas at risk into those that are growing and sustainable.
Advocate for investment support to assist traditional manufacturing businesses to transition to advanced and or high
value manufacturing.
Work with government to facilitate adaptation and uptake of local supply chain opportunities to support immediate
industry supply shortfalls; and advocate for local supply opportunities for publicly funded stimulus projects.
RDA BSW Business Plan 2020 – 2021 19 | P a g eYou can also read
