The Australian economy’s transition away from the resources-led boom towards broader-based growth is presenting different challenges and opportunities for Australia’s regions.
In order to better understand this, the Government has provided the Productivity Commission with terms of reference to commence a study on the impact of the transition on regional economies.
While Australia continues to benefit from strong commodity export growth and a transition to broader-based growth is underway, there are some parts of Australia doing it tougher than others.
At the same time, our economy is reconciling the impacts of globalisation and technological change and the Turnbull Government wants to ensure that Australians are not being left behind.
The Government has a clear economic plan to support this transition, to fuel economic growth and deliver our children and grandchildren the jobs they deserve, but we need to better understand and respond to the local drivers and causes of economic change.
By its nature, the transition will vary around the country. It will create considerable growth and prosperity in some regions, while presenting challenges for others.
The Turnbull Government wants to ensure that all parts of Australia successfully manage the transition and continue to benefit from the growth in our economy.
The Government is committed to working with State, Territory and local governments to help the regions and localities which are facing challenges in successfully transitioning to a more sustainable economic base following the mining boom.
The study will help to determine how well different regions are adapting to the transition and the factors which influence their capacity to adapt to changes in economic circumstances, and to identify those regions most at risk of failing to adjust.
The Commission is due to provide an initial report to the Government in April 2017 and a final report within 12 months.
Public consultation will be undertaken as part of the study and the Government encourages all interested parties to participate. Further information and the terms of reference are available on the Commission's website.