With the regional data and megatrends highlighted, an opportunity exists to look at South West data and overall prospects, and then discuss through the lens of agreed regional development determinants as established by the Council of Australian Governments and accounting for both the Australian Government’s regional priorities and the Western Australian Government’s regional strategic vision as delivered through the South West Development Commission (SWDC).
3.1.1 Determinants of regional development
Connectivity and infrastructure: Access to international, national and regional markets (including supply chain infrastructure and digital capacity).
Regional employment and business: Comparative advantage and business competitiveness boosted by clustering, R&D and a strategic regional vision.
Human capital and skills: Adaptable and educated workforces supported by further and higher education facilities.
Sustainable (economically, environmentally and socially) communities and population: supporting liveability, natural resources, opportunities and jobs.
Effective cross-sectoral and intergovernmental partnerships and integrated regional planning: collaborative approaches provided by regional leadership, shared goals and including the Aboriginal community.
