Case Studies

Background

The Murray/Mallee Region was strategically identified through regional economic analysis, strategy and policy development – necessitating an effective spatial region across communities in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia. This tri-state region needed a strong evidence-base to support positive economic and social outcomes and provide strong advocacy for the development of a Regional Deal for the Cross Border Economic Zone for the Victorian Mallee and southwest New South Wales.

Project Goals

Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions (DJPR) required the development of:

• The evidence required to enable the Mallee Regional Partnership to tell the story of why a Regional Deal for the region is required.
• A Cross-Border Zone Regional Deal Scoping Study.
• A determination of the transformational investments which will provide the greatest economic and social outcomes for the region.
• The development of a framework for implementing a Victoria and New South Wales Cross-Border Economic Zone as a unique economic region through policy and regional strategic planning and execution.

This scoping study creates a framework to promote positive outcomes for the Indigenous community, economic development, harmonisation, infrastructure and connectivity, liveability, health care, education and skills, and the development and maturation of business clusters in the region.

REMPLAN’s Involvement

Initially, REMPLAN conducted an analysis which determined the broad strategic directions for the region by understanding the project context, policy and legislative setting, economic context, and drawing insights from national and international case studies of successful city deals.

REMPLAN then executed broad stakeholder engagement with a wide range of councils, state government departments, regional development authorities, cross border commissioners, and industry groups to inform the project.

Results

This engagement ultimately led to a highly informed and effective Regional Deal Scope Study to inform the future development of the Tri-State Economic Zone Partnership. This Study resulted in 5 key recommendations that regional leaders, Cross Border Commissioners, and State Government actively progress.