Extra industrial infrastructure for the regions

MORE industrial land is expected to become available across regional Victoria after the announcement of a ten-million-dollar State Government funding package for trunk infrastructure to provide new water supplies, sewerage, access roads and power.

The program builds on the success of projects like the Portland North Employment Precinct and Ballarat West Employment Zone, which have created thousands of jobs and brought new businesses to these regional communities.

Delivered through competitive funding rounds, the focus will be on ready-to-go projects.

Making the announcement at Bendigo-based fresh produce wholesaler and ready-made meal manufacturer JL King & Co, Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney said it’s “a win for business, a win for jobs and a win for regional Victoria.”

“We’re building the essential infrastructure regional businesses need to grow, expand and create jobs,” she said.

Premier Jacinta Allan said the State Government will take empty or underutilised land and help unlock it.

“Transforming these sites into hives of activity, buzzing with local jobs and local workers,” she said.

“By fast-tracking the development of industrial land, we’re creating certainty for business, confidence for investors, and more jobs for regional Victorians.”

The State Government supported JL King & Co with installation of infrastructure including gas, electricity, water, sewerage, telecommunications and access roads and car parks at their new Bendigo facility in East Bendigo, enabling them to employ 80 new staff and deliver more locally grown produce to interstate markets.

Businesses looking to invest in regional Victoria should contact their local Regional Development Victoria office or visit the Regional Development Victoria website.