Every new job and every new family in rural and regional Australia brings opportunity for a local small business to start or succeed, Small Business Minister Michael McCormack says.
Launching the www.getoutofthecity.com.au website alongside Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce and The Nationals, Mr McCormack said investment in regional communities driven by decentralisation of Government agencies brings a massive multiplier effect to local small businesses.
"Australia's regional cities and country towns have a robust small business sector – from office suppliers to housing loan brokers, removalists, cafes and everything in between – all of which are waiting to help those who relocate with a job," Mr McCormack said.
"The dividend of decentralisation is clear – every dollar spent in a country small business helps create more jobs, higher wages and better confidence. It helps make more services available locally and vibrant communities for generations to come.
The first country-based and Nationals' MP to be Small Business Minister, Mr McCormack said his Riverina electorate has seen the dividend from decentralisation.
"Investment in Wagga Wagga through the Australian Defence Force (ADF) has been part of the city's character for generations. ADF and Defence personnel's partners, families and friends have careers and dreams and have relocated to the region and started their own small businesses.
"It's through the ADF that Simone Eyles – who is a small business success with a start-up hub and creator of a highly-successful global coffee app – came to call Wagga Wagga home.
"Like those who have come to the city as part of the Rural Industries and Research Development Corporation (RIRDC) relocation to Wagga Wagga, partners and families can make a start in small business.
"Country communities back those who take a risk and have a go – just like I do. So take the chance to pursue a small business success and your new home will back you all the way!"
Mr McCormack said skilled jobs and new starts are a focus of feedback he gets from country small businesses.
"From Dubbo to the Darling Downs, the need for skilled jobs – either in trades or through other tertiary education – is something I am hearing wherever I go in regional Australia," Mr McCormack said.
"I know there are jobs and opportunities for those with skills. I know there are schools which want skilled teachers. I know there are small businesses waiting to be started and jobs waiting to be filled.
"It will also see more of our young people stay in or return to their hometown after University or training, which keeps the character and vibrancy of communities growing and sees more people involved in local sporting clubs and community organisations for the long term.
"Decentralising Government agencies brings more than millions of dollars of reduction in overheads for the Australian taxpayer and more than direct jobs into regional communities. It also brings opportunities to start, succeed and support our vibrant regional small business sector."
Submissions on decentralisation can be made via www.getoutofthecity.com.au by 10 March 2017.