Introduction
The Rudd Labor Government is committed to building a modern, competitive, prosperous Australia capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century.
In order to secure the nation's future and its working families, investment in regional and rural communities and the industries they depend upon is critical.
Over the past decade, many parts of regional Australia have experienced unprecedented growth through the resources boom. Around half of our total export income is from the resources sector. The resultant increases in investment, employment and income opportunities are forecast to continue in the short to medium term with sustained economic growth in China and other developing countries.
The worst drought on record, however, has tested the strength and resilience of our primary industries and our regional communities. It has also highlighted the serious challenge that climate change presents for agriculture.
The resources boom and a changing climate bring a new set of challenges — shifting employment patterns and persistent skill shortages, growth in some regional centres as others decline, changing land and water use and widespread infrastructure bottlenecks.
There has never been a greater need for a new direction and innovative government policy in rural and regional Australia.
The Rudd Labor Government has a new vision for strengthening rural and regional Australia — one that will deliver better services for communities, investment in infrastructure, and innovation for our industries to help them grow, adapt and prosper.
As one of only five Ministerial Statements delivered in the 2008‑09 Budget, this statement covers a range of policies for regional Australia and rural industries.
National coordination of infrastructure, an education revolution, decisive action on climate change and water supplies, a national broadband network, a nation plan to fix our hospital system and restoring balance and fairness into our workplaces — these strong plans in the 2008‑09 Budget will help secure our regional economies and build prosperous communities.
Anthony Albanese
Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government
Tony Burke
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
Gary Gray
Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Development and Northern Australia
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