Vaughan Williams One Nation Mallee
Mallee Regional Employment and Innovation Hub Initiative (MREIHI)
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Policy Proposal: Mallee Regional Employment and Innovation Hub Initiative (MREIHI)

Objective: To create employment opportunities and foster economic growth in the Mallee region by establishing dedicated business centres to support technology and manufacturing start-ups.

Key Components of the Policy

  1. Establishment of Regional Innovation and Business Centres (RIBCs):

    • Develop three strategically located business centres in key towns (e.g., Mildura, Swan Hill, Horsham).
    • These centres will serve as hubs for start-ups and small businesses in technology and manufacturing.

  2. Startup Support Packages:

    • Offer grants of up to $50,000 for new technology and manufacturing ventures based in the Mallee.
    • Provide access to low-interest business loans for initial capital investments.

  3. Training and Skill Development Programs:

    • Partner with local TAFEs, universities, and industry organizations to deliver certified training programs in advanced manufacturing, IT, and digital innovation.
    • Establish apprenticeships and traineeships for local youth and job seekers, funded in part by the state and federal governments.

  4. Digital and Physical Infrastructure Investments:

    • Upgrade digital connectivity in the Mallee (e.g., 5G rollout and enhanced broadband access) to support tech-based enterprises.
    • Provide shared workspace facilities at RIBCs, including high-speed internet, prototyping equipment, and co-working spaces.

  5. Local Business Collaboration:

    • Incentivize partnerships between established local industries (e.g., agriculture, logistics) and new tech/manufacturing start-ups.
    • Encourage collaborative projects that leverage the Mallee’s agricultural and natural resources to develop innovative products and solutions.

  6. Regional Employment and Entrepreneurship Fund (REEF):

    • Establish a dedicated fund to support job creation initiatives and promote entrepreneurial activities.
    • Priority given to ventures that aim to create long-term employment opportunities for residents.

Policy Rationale

  1. Boosting Regional Employment:

    • The Mallee has historically faced challenges with unemployment and workforce retention. This policy creates diverse job opportunities, particularly for young people.

  2. Diversifying the Economy:

    • By supporting technology and manufacturing, the policy reduces reliance on agriculture and promotes economic resilience.

  3. Leveraging Regional Strengths:

    • The Mallee’s existing resources (e.g., renewable energy, agriculture, logistics) provide a strong foundation for innovative tech and manufacturing businesses.

  4. Attracting and Retaining Talent:

    • Improved infrastructure, training, and financial support make the Mallee more attractive for entrepreneurs and skilled workers.

  5. Strengthening Communities:

    • Job creation and economic growth enhance regional community well-being and reduce urban migration.

Implementation Strategy

  1. Phase 1: Planning and Infrastructure Development (Year 1–2)

    • Identify and develop sites for RIBCs in consultation with local councils.
    • Invest in digital and physical infrastructure upgrades.

  2. Phase 2: Launch and Outreach (Year 3–4)

    • Launch startup support programs and training initiatives.
    • Promote the Mallee as a destination for business innovation through marketing campaigns.

  3. Phase 3: Ongoing Development and Evaluation (Year 5 and Beyond)

    • Continuously assess the effectiveness of RIBCs and adjust programs as needed.
    • Expand funding and infrastructure support based on demand and economic outcomes.

Potential Benefits

  1. Economic Growth:

    • A diversified economy driven by technology and manufacturing boosts the region’s GDP and creates local wealth.

  2. Job Creation:

    • Directly addresses unemployment by creating hundreds of new jobs in emerging industries.

  3. Business Innovation:

    • New startups introduce innovative solutions that can complement traditional industries like agriculture.

  4. Regional Revitalization:

    • Strengthens local communities by reducing economic disparities and retaining talent in the Mallee.

  5. Sustainability and Future-Readiness:

    • Encourages businesses that align with modern, sustainable practices, positioning the Mallee as a forward-thinking region.

This policy positions the Mallee as a hub for innovation and industrial growth, creating lasting employment opportunities and enhancing regional prosperity.