REGIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
VICTORIA
Annual Report
13-14
CONTENTS
Highlights 2013-14 _______________________________________________ 3
Chief Executive Foreword _________________________________________ 8
Overview _____________________________________________________ 10
Responsibilities
10
Profile
11
Partners and Stakeholders _______________________________________ 13
Regional Policy Advisory Committee
13
Regional Development Australia Initiative
15
Working with Regional Cities Victoria
16
Working with Rural Councils Victoria
17
Regional Growth Fund ___________________________________________ 18
Implementing the Regional Growth Fund
18
Delivering Major Infrastructure
20
Energy for the Regions
28
Supporting Local Initiatives
29
Developing Stronger Regions
34
Regional Growth Fund: Other Key Initiatives
35
Place-Based Solutions ___________________________________________ 36
Geelong Advancement Fund
36
Latrobe Valley Industry and Employment Roadmap
38
Goulburn Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund
40
Emergency Management and Regional Recovery _____________________ 41
2014 Bushfires Economic Recovery
41
Flood Recovery Support
42
Fire Recovery Unit
42
Marysville Hotel and Conference Centre
43
Integrated Delivery and Business Engagement ________________________ 44
Barwon South West
45
Gippsland
46
Grampians
48
Hume
49
Loddon Mallee
51
Developing Regional Policy _______________________________________ 53
Information Portal for Regional Development
53
Thinking Regional and Rural
54
Promoting Regional and Rural Victoria ______________________________ 55
2013 Royal Melbourne Show
55
2014 Regional Victoria Living Expo
56
Good Move Regional Marketing Campaign
57
Future Priorities 2014-15 _________________________________________ 58
Finance ______________________________________________________ 59
RDV Grant Payments
60
Economic Infrastructure
80
Output Targets and Performance
85
Revenue and Expenses
86
Financial Performance
87
Compliance
87
Legislation
87
Contact Information _____________________________________________ 88
HIGHLIGHTS 2013-14
July 2013
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Commenced the $45 million Geelong Library and Heritage Centre project, supported by $15 million from the
Regional Growth Fund.
Supported the $3.5 million expansion of Rubicon Water with $750,000 from the Industries for Today and
Tomorrow program, creating more than 100 jobs in the Goulburn Valley.
Completed the $6.4 million Mildura Airport Terminal Redevelopment project with $5.2 million from the Regional
Growth Fund.
August 2013
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Supported the $277 million, 394-bed Epworth Geelong Private Hospital project with a Regional Growth Fund
grant of $2.85 million, creating 900 construction jobs and 780 ongoing positions once completed.
Announced $1.3 million from the Regional Growth Fund to support the $2.6 million Queenscliff Searoad Ferries
Infrastructure Upgrade.
Launch of the Regional Cities Victoria Growth Framework, a partnership between Regional Development
Victoria and Regional Cities Victoria, which received $300,000 from the Victorian Government.
Officially opened the Flavorite Water Efficiency project at the hydroponic tomato farm in Warragul, which
received $460,000 from the Regional Growth Fund.
Provided a grant of $243,000 from the Regional Growth Fund to support the $486,000 Port of Portland Cruise
Vessel Terminal Infrastructure Project.
Held the first meeting of the Goulburn Valley Industry and Employment Taskforce.
September 2013
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Released an $85 million Request for Tender to connect natural gas to priority towns and Murray River
communities as part of the Energy for the Regions Program.
Supported the $2.8 million expansion of Longwarry Food Park with $500,000 from the Latrobe Valley Industry
and Infrastructure Fund, increasing the company’s production of UHT dairy products for the export market and
creating up to 15 new jobs.
Announced funding of $1.5 million from the Regional Growth Fund to support Murray Goulburn Cooperative’s
$22 million Leongatha Site Upgrade and Energy Infrastructure Project. The project will increase the company’s
production capacity by an estimated 100 million megalitres per year.
Announced funding of $243,000 from the Regional Growth Fund to support the Stage 3 development of the
Vietnam Veterans’ Commemorative Walk in Seymour.
Committed $250,000 from the Regional Growth Fund to support a $6 million investment by Fonterra Australia at
its cheese manufacturing plant in Stanhope.
Supported Burra Foods’ new infant formula production plant at Korumburra with $1.5 million through the
Regional Growth Fund. The project is expected to create 26 new jobs and increase the company’s export of
infant formula and milk powder dairy products by more than $70 million per year.
October 2013
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Supported the $2.2 million expansion of Drouin Timber and Truss with $700,000 from the Latrobe Valley Industry
and Infrastructure Fund. Twenty-two new jobs will be created as a result of the project.
Opened the $2.1 million Lion Morwell External Power Upgrade Project, which received $490,000 from the
Latrobe Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund.
Announced $600,000 from the Regional Growth Fund to support Stage Two of the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail.
Officially opened the $1.5 million Alpine Trout Farm in Noojee, which received $730,000 from the Latrobe Valley
Industry and Infrastructure Fund.
Officially opened the King Valley Community Complex, which received $500,000 through the Local Government
Infrastructure Program.
Announced a $570,000 contribution from the Regional Growth Fund to support the $6 million Labertouche Water
Main Replacement project, removing a major barrier to growth for Jindivick’s Jindi Cheese. The project will allow
the company to undertake extensive expansion plans and triple its production by 2016.
Supported a series of regional forums in conjunction with the Barwon South West Regional Development
Australia Committee and the Australia China Business Council focussed on trade opportunities with China.
Promoted relocation to regional and rural Victoria to more than 500,000 visitors at the Royal Melbourne Show
through an interactive display raising awareness of lifestyle activities and benefits.
November 2013
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Launched the Wangaratta Ovens Riverside Project supported by $715,000 from the Regional Growth Fund.
Announced funding of $3 million from the Geelong Advancement Fund to support the $65 million redevelopment
of the former St Mary’s School site.
Supported Flavourwave’s $12 million investment in a hydroponic tomato growing facility at Katunga, with
$500,000 provided through the Industries for Today and Tomorrow program. The project is expected to create
90 new jobs.
Completed the redevelopment of the Ballarat Mechanics Institute, which received $2 million from the Victorian
Government.
Supported the development of Karingal’s Kommercial Factory in North Geelong with $650,000 from the Geelong
Advancement Fund. The project will support the retention of 63 jobs and 60 new positions, many for people with
a disability.
December 2013
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Supported the $2.9 million redevelopment of Queenscliff’s Fisherman’s Wharf Precinct with $1 million provided
by the Victorian Government. The precinct development, which involves the construction of a live stingray
attraction, will create 16 new jobs.
Commenced the $2 million redevelopment of the Marysville Community Golf and Bowls Club with $1.45 million
provided by the Victorian Government.
Supported the $4.2 million road infrastructure project for Wodonga’s central business district with $2.1 million
from the Regional Growth Fund.
Opened the Port of Echuca Discovery Centre, part of the $15 million revitalisation of the Port of Echuca jointly
funded by Regional Development Victoria, the Commonwealth Government and Campaspe Shire Council.
January 2014
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Announced the successful tenderer to deliver the Nowingi Place amenities element of the $18.3 million Stage
One Mildura Riverfront Parklands Project.
Supported the $7.5 million redevelopment of the historic Mount Buffalo Chalet with $3.27 million provided from
the Regional Growth Fund.
February 2014
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Held a remembrance event hosted by the Premier at Melbourne Museum to commemorate the fifth anniversary
of the 2009 Victorian bushfires.
Released the Bushfire Recovery Five Year Report.
Supported Pactum Dairy Group’s $38 million investment in a new UHT milk processing facility at Shepparton,
with $950,000 from the Regional Growth Fund.
Officially opened the Bayer Wheat and Oilseed Breeding Centre at Longerenong College, a project supported by
$1.24 million from the Regional Growth Fund. The completed facility will be one of seven such centres around
the world and will employ 18 people.
Announced $300,000 from the Regional Growth Fund to support the redevelopment of the Euroa Recreational
Vehicle Stop.
Commenced the $19 million redevelopment of the Horsham Town Hall, with $5 million provided by the Victorian
Government.
Supported Safetech Industries’ $560,000 investment in a new joint venture in Gippsland with $150,000 from the
Latrobe Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund. The project will secure 43 jobs and create 20 new positions at
the company.
Announced Koo Wee Rup’s connection to natural gas as part of the Energy for the Regions program.
March 2014
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Launched the Goulburn Valley Industry and Employment Plan and the Goulburn Valley Fruit Growing Industry
Road Map to assist the Goulburn Valley to manage the challenge of structural adjustment and to reposition its
economy for sustainable long-term growth.
Launched the $5 million Goulburn Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund to invest in structural infrastructure to
transform and transition the Goulburn Valley.
Opened the $8.4 million Bendigo Art Gallery, supported by $3.78 million from the Victorian Government.
Supported the $20 million expansion and redevelopment of Midfield Meat in Warrnambool with $1.5 million from
the Regional Growth Fund. The project is expected to create 50 new jobs and increase the company’s exports
by up to $105 million per year.
Coordinated site visits to regional producers and manufacturers in the Grampians region as part of the
International Food and Beverage Trade Week 2014.
Supported the $655,000 expansion of Gippsland Body Builders in Drouin, with $150,000 from the Latrobe Valley
Industry and Infrastructure Fund. The project is expected to create 10 new jobs in the construction of road
transport equipment.
Officially opened the Deakin University Regional Student Accommodation Project, a $41.3 million project
supported by $10.3 million from the Regional Growth Fund.
Announced $1.2 million from the Regional Growth Fund to support the $4.25 million Nobbies and Summerland
tourism expansion project at Phillip Island.
Supported Rural Councils Victoria’s Rural Summit held from 27-28 March in Nhill.
April 2014
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Held the 2014 Regional Victoria Living Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 11 to 13
April, attracting more than 9,600 visitors and 147 exhibitors.
Supported the $700,000 expansion of Kyneton stockfeed processor RS Perry with $60,000 from the Victorian
Business Flood Recovery Fund.
Announced $130,000 from the Regional Growth Fund to support the redevelopment of the Cudgewa Recreation
Reserve.
Announced funding of $1.95 million from the Regional Growth Fund to support the $5 million Landsborough
Valley Water Supply Pipeline Project. Over 25 kilometres of water main will help secure the water supply of six
vineyards, removing existing barriers to growth and supporting 13 new jobs.
Supported the City of Greater Geelong’s feasibility study into the Geelong Mineral Springs Spa and Wellness
Centre with $60,000 from the Developing Stronger Regions Program.
Supported an investment of $570,000 by free range beef and lamb producer Koallah Farm in south-west Victoria
with $100,000 from the Putting Locals First Program. The project will create 15 new jobs.
Officially opened Round Two of the $11 million Geelong Advancement Fund.
May 2014
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Supported the $15 million Port of Sale Redevelopment Project with $4.75 million from the Victorian Government.
Launched East Gippsland Shire Council’s East Bairnsdale Infrastructure Enhancement Project, which received
$1.73 million from the Regional Growth Fund.
Facilitated the Gippsland Manufacturing Industry Forum in Morwell to investigate barriers to business growth.
Supported the $450,000 expansion of Bertalli’s Alpine Breads with $75,000 from the Regional Growth Fund,
allowing the company to increase its production lines and create six new jobs.
Supported construction of the Mt Beauty Progressing Place project with $500,000 from the Regional Growth
Fund.
Announced Warburton’s connection to natural gas as part of the Energy for the Regions program.
June 2014
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Officially opened Australian Tartaric Products’ new $11 million biomass-fuelled boiler and power-generator
system at the company’s new Mildura plant, which received $1.8 million through the Regional Growth Fund.
Supported the redevelopment of the Warrnambool Regional Airport with $4 million from the Victorian
Government.
Opened the historic St James Public Hall, which received $270,000 through the Regional Growth Fund.
Opened Wodonga Abattoirs’ Tri-generation plant, which received $1 million from the Regional Growth Fund.
Launched Mars Chocolates’ Renewable Energy Program at the company’s Ballarat manufacturing facility, which
received $1.5 million from the Regional Growth Fund.
Supported Gibsons Groundspread’s $4.8 million compost processing and distribution facility at Longford with
$150,000 from the Latrobe Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund. The completed facility will produce over
100,000 tonnes of compost each year and support 12 new jobs.
Supported the $1.26 million expansion of Boynton’s Feathertop Winery, with $150,000 through the Regional
Growth Fund.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE FOREWORD
In 2013-14 Regional Development Victoria continued its pivotal role
in supporting and strengthening regional and rural Victoria.
This year Regional Development Victoria invested more than $155 million in regional Victoria and approved more than
400 projects under the Victorian Government’s $1 billion Regional Growth Fund. Since its establishment in 2011, the
Regional Growth Fund has provided almost $430 million in support, generating over $1.7 billion of total investment
across more than 1,500 projects.
Regional and rural Victoria play a key role in Victoria’s future prosperity and growth. Our regions account for almost a
quarter of the State’s employment, and about one fifth of our economic output. Over the next decade to 2024, its
population is projected to grow by an extra 221,000 people - from 1.47 million to 1.69 million.
In 2013-14, RDV played a leading role in delivering key outcomes to drive regional economies and help manage regional
growth. Throughout the year, we worked with key stakeholders, including local government, industry and community
organisations, to strengthen the productive potential of regional industries through collaborative government investment.
Our work ranged from facilitating large-scale enabling infrastructure, including the
$100 million Energy for the Regions program, which this year continued to extend the natural gas network across
regional Victoria, to small-scale initiatives that seek to respond to regionally-specific issues and community needs, such
as the Hindmarsh Shire Economic Development Strategy. All our activities are underpinned by strategic and
collaborative investment designed to encourage more sustainable, productive and liveable regional communities.
We continued to work closely with companies targeting new opportunities in overseas markets, supporting innovative
projects seeking to capitalise on emerging export demands. This includes Korumburra’s Burra Foods, which undertook a
$22 million expansion of its infant formula production facility to increase the company’s product lines and take full
advantage of the increasing demand for nutritional milk powder products
in Asian markets.
This year we continued to deliver targeted support to those economies most affected by changing economic conditions.
In Geelong, we responded to news of job losses and industry closures with the announcement of the first three projects
funded under the Geelong Advancement Fund, driving jobs and innovation, while encouraging investment in emerging
sectors of Geelong’s economy. Announced in July, the $8.1 million Deakin Student Accommodation Project will continue
to grow Geelong’s reputation in the education sector, while the $65 million redevelopment of the St Mary’s School site,
led by Barwon Health, further enhances Geelong’s capability in the public health sector with the creation of a state-ofthe-art medical library.
In the Goulburn Valley, where the traditional industries of food production and processing face the challenges of longterm structural adjustment, we launched the $5 million Goulburn Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund to help local
businesses grow and adapt to the changing market conditions.
In April 2014 we held the third Regional Victoria Living Expo, encouraging more Melburnians to make the move to
regional Victoria. This year’s event was our largest and most highly attended yet, attracting 147 exhibitors and more than
9,600 visitors, in what has quickly become a popular initiative for regional businesses and organisations to attract skilled
labour and new residents. The 2014 Expo was supported by RDV’s successful Good Move regional marketing
campaign, emphasising the benefits of living and working in our regional communities.
The RDV team continued to expand its role in emergency management and regional recovery, taking a leading role in
the Government’s response to the 2014 Grampians bushfire and the Hazelwood mine fire by overseeing a suite of
economic recovery initiatives. This year also saw the fifth anniversary of the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, marked by a
central memorial service and the publication of the Victorian Bushfire Recovery Five Year Report, both coordinated by
our Fire Recovery Unit. In areas affected by the flood events of 2010, 2011 and 2012, we continued to deliver a range of
initiatives to support community recovery projects and restore flood-damaged infrastructure.
RDV is proud to lead regional policy development in Victoria, expanding our role and influence through evidence-based
advocacy and innovative research. In May we officially launched the Regional Victoria Information Portal, a publicly
available online information database that consolidates around 150,000 data points across hundreds of indicators and
135 geographies, providing easy access to the latest information on our regional and rural communities. The Portal has
already proved popular amongst Government, councils, businesses, universities, research institutions, and other
stakeholders, encouraging stronger engagement through up-to-date, comprehensive information.
We continued to encourage regional leadership and to promote regional voices in policy development and
implementation, recognising that stronger and more sustainable communities have the capacity to drive their own
development. RDV continues to support the Regional Policy Advisory Committee and Regional Development Australia
Committees, and to tailor our programs to ensure that new investment reflects local priorities and addresses local issues.
In January 2014 we launched an online version of Thinking Regional and Rural: Guidelines for Assessing Regional and
Rural Impacts of Policy and Legislation. Accessible through the Regional Development Victoria website, the Thinking
Regional and Rural online tool is designed to strengthen the capability of government officers to identify and assess the
impacts of policy and legislation on regional and rural Victoria.
This year RDV’s presence in regional Victoria increased with the implementation of the Government’s Integrated
Regional Delivery Model, taking responsibility for delivering a broad range of functions across multiple Government
departments. The new model allows for greater engagement amongst a number of Government portfolios, from regional
planning to Sport and Recreation and the Office of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, supporting more coordinated planning and
investment and greatly improving access to Government for regional and rural Victorians.
RDV is proud to have supported Victoria’s regional communities to achieve sustainable and long-term growth throughout
2013-14.
I am honoured to lead such a talented and committed team, and look forward to continuing our good work in 2014-15.
Lachlan Bruce
Chief Executive
Regional Development Victoria
OVERVIEW
RESPONSIBILITIES
In accordance with the Regional Development Victoria Act 2002,
RDV works closely with various State Government agencies to
facilitate economic, infrastructure and community development to
improve the quality of life for regional Victorians.
RDV has primary responsibility for:
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Developing integrated, regionally-focused policies and programs, including the implementation of the $1 billion
Regional Growth Fund – the Government’s principle initiative to support future priorities for the social and
economic development of regional Victoria.
Creating vibrant and dynamic regional communities and economies through facilitating new jobs, investments,
exports, infrastructure for strategic projects and competitive businesses.
Delivering programs and information to help grow a robust and sustainable economy and strengthen
communities throughout regional Victoria.
Developing and implementing initiatives to promote the State, to attract business and increase the population of
Victoria’s regions.
PROFILE
RDV is the Victorian Government’s lead agency in developing
regional and rural Victoria.
RDV’s role involves facilitating new investment, business growth and job creation, infrastructure development, instigating
policy and planning initiatives, and coordinating the delivery of Government programs, services and resources in rural
and regional Victoria.
This includes implementation of the Regional Growth Fund, facilitating consultation about economic and community
development between the public and private sectors, and promoting the benefits of investing, working and living in
regional Victoria.
It also includes advising the Minister for Regional and Rural Development and the Minister for Regional Cities on matters
relating to development in regional and rural Victoria, and supporting communities affected by the 2009 fires through the
Fire Recovery Unit.
On 1 July 2013 RDV formally completed its transition into the Department of State Development, Business and
Innovation (DSDBI), having previously been located within the former Department of Planning and Community
Development.
With the implementation of the Government’s Integrated Regional Delivery Model in 2013-14, our 18 regional offices took
responsibility for delivering a broad range of functions across multiple Government departments. Under this new model,
RDV oversees the regional functions of Sport and Recreation Victoria and the Office of Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, while
supporting the Regional Management Forums and the regional planning functions of the Department of Transport,
Planning and Local Infrastructure (DTPLI).
In 2013-14, RDV operated through the following groups:
REGIONAL PROGRAMS AND RECOVERY
The Regional Programs and Recovery Group is responsible for the delivery of a range of programs and activities
including the local initiatives component of the Regional Growth Fund, the Regional Development Australia initiative in
Victoria and bushfire and flood recovery programs. This includes the operations of the Fire Recovery Unit.
Fire Recovery Unit
The Fire Recovery Unit was established in July 2011 to assist people and communities affected by the 2009 Victorian
bushfires following the closure of the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority. The Fire Recovery Unit
provides a clear point of contact within the State Government for bushfire affected community members to obtain
information and connect with services.
INFRASTRUCTURE GROUP
The Infrastructure Group identifies, facilitates and delivers infrastructure projects which contribute to the enhanced
productivity, liveability and sustainability of regional and rural Victoria, including those initiated through the Regional
Growth Fund.
REGIONAL BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT
The Business Engagement team engages with Victorian regional businesses to promote the development of sustainable
industries that are growth orientated and export focused. The team identifies opportunities for private-sector engagement
and captures regional business intelligence, supporting a range of programs and services across RDV, DSDBI and the
Victorian Government to coordinate investment attraction and export facilitation.
REGIONAL POLICY AND PLANNING
The Policy and Planning Group provides policy and strategy leadership to RDV, coordinating with other departments to
develop ideas, knowledge, policies and programs that support the Victorian Government’s commitment to regional and
rural Victoria. The group is also responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Regional Growth Fund, delivering
research and analysis to support regional policy, and managing strategic relationships across and outside the Victorian
Government.
MARKETING AND PROMOTION GROUP
The Marketing and Promotion Group delivers a range of activities to promote the business and lifestyle benefits of
locations in regional and rural Victoria. In particular, the group is responsible for implementing the Regional Victoria
Living Expo and the Good Move regional marketing campaign.
RDV REGIONAL OFFICES
RDV manages 18 regional offices across the five regions of Barwon South-West, Gippsland, Grampians, Hume and
Loddon Mallee. Our regional teams work closely with their communities to facilitate investment, jobs and exports,
creating a local contact point for businesses, councils and community groups wanting to access the programs and
services provided by RDV.
Our regional offices support the Regional Development Australia Initiative and the delivery of DSDBI’s business
engagement model, and implement the Government’s Integrated Regional Delivery Model on behalf of the Departments
of Premier and Cabinet and Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure.
PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS
REGIONAL POLICY ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
The Regional Policy Advisory Committee (RPAC) was established
under legislation to provide independent advice to the Minister for
Regional and Rural Development and Minister for Regional Cities on
priorities in regional Victoria, and to monitor and advise on the impacts
of legislation and policy decisions on regional and rural Victoria.
RPAC has a broad focus to provide external advice to government on the regional impacts of policy and legislation, longterm priorities to support regional growth and prosperity as well as any other regional policy matters referred to the
Committee by government.
RPAC includes three independent members and the chairs of the five non-metropolitan Regional Development Australia
(RDA) Committees. As at 30 June 2014, the RPAC members were:
1. Ian McClelland OAM – Chairperson
Mr McClelland is the founder and former Chairperson of the Birchip Cropping Group, a highly successful farm support
and agricultural research organisation in Victoria’s north-west. He was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for
service to agriculture.
2. Bruce Anson
Mr Anson is Chairperson of the Barwon South West RDA Committee and Chief Executive Officer of Warrnambool City
Council.
3. Stuart Benjamin
Mr Benjamin is Chairperson of the Grampians RDA Committee, founding Chairman and current Board member of
Ballarat Regional Tourism, and Director of Elmstone Property Group, a land and construction group operating in Western
Victoria.
4. Mark Byatt
Mr Byatt is Chairperson of the Hume RDA Committee and was Mayor of Wodonga from 2008 to 2013.
5. Jenny Dawson
Ms Dawson is the Chairperson of the Loddon Mallee RDA Committee, a Non-Executive Director of Bendigo and
Adelaide Bank and Chair of their Audit Committee, and Chair of Sandhurst Trustees, a Trustee for the Anglican Diocese
of Bendigo.
6. Richard Elkington
Mr Elkington is the Chairperson of the Gippsland RDA Committee, a Director of East Gippsland Water, member of the
Clean Coal Victoria Advisory Committee and a long-term member of the Executive Council of the Victorian Employers’
Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
7. Ross Lake OAM
Mr Lake is the General Manager of TASCO Inland, a major fuel and oil distributor based in Mildura. He received the
Medal of the Order of Australia for service to arts administration, to social welfare, and to the community.
8. Val Lang AM
Ms Lang is a graduate of the Australian Rural Leadership Program and Victorian representative for Australian Women in
Agriculture. She was made a Member of the Order of Australia for service to women living in rural and regional
communities.
RPAC met seven times during 2013-14, including regional meetings
in Wodonga, Ballarat and Mildura.
In August 2013, RPAC officially launched its Education Aspiration for Regional Victoria research report in Ballarat,
together with the Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and Rural Development, the Hon Peter Ryan MP. Drawing
on a combination of regional, national and international research, as well as practical experience, Education Aspiration
for Regional Victoria highlights social and cultural circumstances that enable or inhibit aspiration and engagement, with a
view to building understanding around how government can address aspiration in regional education. RPAC instigated
this research as a response to growing concern regarding the difference in educational participation between
metropolitan and regional Victorian students and the effects this can have upon regional growth and prosperity.
Following the launch, RPAC commenced a series of regional briefings with representatives from the education sector to
promote awareness of the report. In October, RPAC also presented the findings of its research to the Department of
Education and Early Childhood Development’s Rural Education Reference Group. Comprising representatives from early
childhood services, Government, Catholic and Independent schools, and higher education and skills services, the Rural
Education Reference Group provides advice on implementation of the Government’s agenda for education provision and
access across regional and rural Victoria.
During the year, RPAC hosted three community forums as part of its regional meeting program. These forums were
essential in developing RPAC’s strategic advice to Government on future priorities for the Regional Growth Fund and
long-term priorities to support regional growth and prosperity. RPAC presented its advice to Government in November
2013.
In January 2014, RPAC launched an online version of Thinking Regional and Rural: Guidelines for Assessing Regional
and Rural Impacts of Policy and Legislation. Accessible through the RDV website, the Thinking Regional and Rural
online tool is designed to strengthen the capability of government officers to identify and assess the impacts of policy and
legislation
on regional and rural Victoria.
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
AUSTRALIA INITIATIVE
RDV continued to work closely with the Commonwealth Government
to deliver the Regional Development Australia (RDA) Initiative
through the five regional Victorian RDA Committees.
RDA is a partnership between the Commonwealth, State and Territory and local governments to support the growth and
development of Australia’s regions. RDV is working closely with RDA to deliver important projects for regional Victorians
through the implementation of Regional Strategic Plans.
The five non-metropolitan RDA Committees work in partnership with regional leaders to set the strategic direction and
priorities for their respective regions. RDA Committees also provide local recommendations in regard to the Putting
Locals First Program component of the Regional Growth Fund, and provide RDV with strategic advice on business and
development opportunities. RDV administers the Operational Funding Contract for RDA in partnership with the
Commonwealth Government.
During 2013-14, the Victorian RDA Committees developed new Regional Strategic Plans, providing a vision for each
region and identifying priority areas of focus for the Committees. RDV continued to work with the regional RDA
Committees to develop and deliver new projects and initiatives that aligned with the priorities identified in these Plans.
In 2014-15 RDV will work with the Commonwealth Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development to continue
to assist RDA Committees to enhance economic development opportunities in their regions.
DSDBI supports the operation of the four metropolitan Melbourne RDA Committees.
WORKING WITH REGIONAL CITIES
VICTORIA
RDV continued to provide leadership to develop place-based and
integrated approaches to government investment, planning and
policy associated with Victoria’s 10 regional cities of Geelong,
Ballarat, Warrnambool, Horsham, Mildura, Bendigo, Shepparton,
Wangaratta, Latrobe and Wodonga.
Regional Cities Victoria, the peak body for the 10 regional cities, includes the Mayor and CEO from each of Victoria’s 10
regional cities. RDV partners with Regional Cities Victoria to strengthen the economic base of regional cities, and
enhance their lifestyle amenities to attract and retain a greater share of Victoria’s growing population.
The State Government and Regional Cities Victoria share a vision of a ‘State of Cities’, whereby the regions capture a
greater proportion of Victoria’s overall population growth. This is reflected in the Government’s metropolitan planning
strategy Plan Melbourne, and the eight Regional Growth Plans.
The Government is supporting the growth of our regional cities through a range of transformative investments:
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$25 million for the establishment costs of the National Disability Insurance Agency national headquarters in
Geelong, building on the Government’s support for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) trial and full
scheme roll-out and the $300 million already provided.
Up to $220 million for the Murray Basin Rail Project to undertake major country rail freight upgrades and build
the transformational Mildura standardisation link.
$25.2 million towards Stage One of the Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ). The BWEZ is a long-term
project to unlock land for industry and has the potential to deliver 9000 jobs and inject $5 billion into the economy
annually when fully implemented.
$39.7 million for the Regional Connectivity program initiative. Travellers on V/Line’s VLocity carriages operating
between Melbourne and Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Seymour and Traralgon will be able to access a free public
Wi-Fi service.
$73 million for a modern new court complex and facilities for Shepparton and the Hume region.
$10 million towards the Carbon Nexus carbon fibre research and production facility. The state-of-the-art facility
will contribute to advanced manufacturing and innovation in Geelong.
The Regional Cities Growth Framework was delivered in 2012, and is currently being updated through Stage 2 to help
regional cities plan for future growth and development, and to prioritise investment in services and infrastructure. RDV
will continue to work with regional cities to support their growth and development.
WORKING WITH RURAL COUNCILS
VICTORIA
RDV provides Rural Councils Victoria with funding support as part of
the $3.3 million Networked Rural Councils program to help Victoria’s
38 rural councils build capacity, share information and undertake
projects that support sustainable and liveable rural communities.
Auspiced by the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), Rural Councils Victoria (RCV) represents Victoria’s 38 rural
councils, responsible for 79 per cent of the State’s land area.
RCV focuses on supporting the capacity of the 38 rural councils and promoting the growth and economic development of
rural communities. In particular, RCV concentrates on creating and retaining jobs, ensuring access to key services, and
improving the liveability and viability of Victoria’s regional areas.
RDV partners with RCV to progress policy agendas including the implementation of the RDV-funded Networked Rural
Councils program, which aims to help rural councils address current and future challenges more sustainably.
The $3.3 million program, now entering its fourth and final year, aims to empower rural councils to:
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Be a collective voice: coordinate effective liaison between the 38 rural councils, State and Commonwealth
governments and key stakeholders.
Enable local solutions: deliver key RCV events to facilitate networking, learning, capacity building, and external
communication, and to identify opportunities to partner with other regional events.
Create an interactive learning hub: lead and contribute to the development of evidence-based policy and
strategy in relation to key RCV priority areas in partnership with the State Government, MAV and other
organisations.
Build resilience and capacity: build the capacity of councillors and council officers to support economic
development and increase the sustainability of rural communities.
Strengthen a sense of place: develop evidence-based strategies and initiatives to attract and retain residents
and businesses in rural communities.
Initiatives delivered in the last year include:
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The 2014 Rural Summit at Nhill, hosted by RCV in March, which brought together more than 150 staff and
elected representatives from Councils across Victoria. The Summit showcased innovative programs being
undertaken by rural Councils including economic development and revitalisation.
Coordination of a joint application on behalf of ten Councils for Streetlife funding for the Revitalising Rural Retail
Project. The project complements the Rural Retail Economics research and Rural Retail Handbook, which RCV
released in August 2013. In February 2014, retailers received quantitative research about retail and local
consumer behaviour in their area. The information assisted councils and retailers develop plans aimed at retail
revitalisation in rural communities.
The Fleet Management Toolkit, which provides an integrated collection of instructions, templates, tools and
examples designed to be used by Council to develop and implement fleet management standards that will
benefit the individual council and make collaboration with neighboring councils more likely to succeed.
REGIONAL GROWTH FUND
IMPLEMENTING THE REGIONAL GROWTH
FUND
In 2013-14 RDV continued to deliver the Victorian Government’s
regional development policy through the $1 billion Regional Growth
Fund.
When regional and rural Victoria is growing, the whole state prospers. The Regional Growth Fund provides $1 billion
over eight years to create prosperity, provide opportunities and improve the quality of life for regional and rural Victorians.
Building stronger regional and rural communities improves people’s access to employment, education, business
opportunities and other aspects of community life.
Through the Regional Growth Fund, RDV invested in strategic infrastructure and community-led local initiatives to
improve both the competitiveness and liveability of regional and rural Victoria. We worked with local industries to achieve
sustainable energy and water solutions, directly supported communities facing the challenges of changing economic
conditions, and encouraged local solutions to improve services, community infrastructure, leadership and skills in our
regional and rural communities.
During the year, funding through the Regional Growth Fund helped create and maintain jobs and improve career options
for regional Victorians by assisting regional businesses to grow and take advantage of development opportunities.
As at 30 June 2014, 1,545 projects collectively worth $1.7 billion were supported by total funding of $426.34 million from
the Regional Growth Fund since its inception in July 2011.
Within this total, the Economic Infrastructure Program announced $179.5 million for 86 regional infrastructure projects,
$95.24 million for 411 projects nominated by regional and rural councils under the Local Government Infrastructure
Program and $75.96 million for 658 projects under the Putting Locals First Program.
The Regional Growth Fund is delivered primarily by RDV in close consultation with the regional and rural communities
that benefit from the planning, projects and services implemented through the fund.
The fund’s major streams over its first four years include:
 $221 million for the Economic Infrastructure Program;
 $100 million for the Putting Locals First Program; and
 $100 million for the Local Government Infrastructure Program.
During 2013-14, RDV’s Regional Growth Fund-related operations:
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Invested in enabling infrastructure in line with local priorities and Regional Strategic Plans;
Provided direct support to communities facing changing economic conditions, including Geelong, the Goulburn
Valley and the Latrobe Valley;
Supported the supply of reliable energy and water infrastructure to regional communities and industry, including
through the $100 million Energy for the Regions program;
Facilitated job creation and improved career options for regional Victorians; and,
Supported the resilience and sustainability of communities in regional Victoria through the Local Government
Infrastructure Fund and Putting Locals First Program.
DELIVERING MAJOR INFRASTRUCTURE
Throughout the year, the Economic Infrastructure Program of the
Regional Growth Fund continued to facilitate strategic infrastructure
investment and support more sustainable, productive and liveable
regional communities.
The Economic Infrastructure Program played a leading role in delivering key outcomes to drive regional economies,
increase jobs, attract new industry and improve regional services. In 2013-14, the Economic Infrastructure Program
announced $42.5 million for 19 regional infrastructure projects, which included the following:
LANDSBOROUGH VALLEY WATER SUPPLY PIPELINE PROJECT
The 25.5 kilometres of water main to be constructed from Stawell to Glenkara Estate Vineyard will guarantee a reliable
water supply to six vineyards in Western Victoria’s Landsborough Valley, securing around 60 jobs and removing
significant barriers to investment and growth.
The $5 million Landsborough Valley Water Supply Pipeline Project, which will include pump stations at Stawell and Joel
South, represents a joint initiative between the Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water Corporation, the participating
vineyards, and the Victorian Government, which has contributed funding of $1.95 million from the Regional Growth Fund.
The Landsborough Valley, about 30 kilometres east of Stawell, is renowned as a premium red wine growing region,
producing around $7 million worth of wine each year. Access to a reliable water supply is critical to achieving consistent
grape quantity and quality, enabling supply volumes to be guaranteed. It also provides the vineyards with the confidence
to proceed with planned investments, secure long-term supply contracts and increase exports.
NOBBIES AND SUMMERLAND PENINSULA TOURISM EXPANSION PROJECT
In March 2014, the Victorian Government announced $1.2 million from the Regional Growth Fund to support a $4.25
million expansion of Philip Island’s unique tourist attractions. The Nobbies and Summerland Tourism Expansion Project
will further increase the region’s world-renowned nature-based experiences, adding to the Island’s established tourist
destinations such as the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.
As part of the project Wildlife Coastal Cruises, a local operator, will develop a new eco-boat tour departing from the
Cowes township, with up to 25,000 visitors expected to book an eco-boat tour each year.
The second aspect of the project will involve a new multi-media tourism experience to be located at the Nobbies that will
incorporate a unique branding partnership between the Phillip Island Nature Park and the World Wildlife Fund for Nature.
The partnership with the World Wildlife Fund is the first of its type in Australia, and will be evident in the educational
content, branding, merchandising and marketing of the state-of the art interpretive display.
Both attractions are due for completion by January 2016, with the eco-boat tours to begin as early as December 2014.
PACTUM DAIRY GROUP
In February 2014, Pactum Dairy Group’s new $42 million milk processing facility at Shepparton received $950,000 from
the Victorian Government to support the development of Ultra High Temperature (UHT) milk processing lines and the
connection of natural gas to the greenfield site.
The facility, which was officially opened in May 2014, has the capacity to process up to 100 million litres of full cream,
skim, flavoured and lactose-free milk within the next three years. It will be crucial to improving the competitiveness of the
region’s dairy sector and capitalising on opportunities presented by new and emerging markets, with Pactum expecting
to export up to $37 million worth of produce to the Chinese market after the group secured a supply agreement with
Bright Dairy, a Chinese company with more than 400 distributors.
Victorian Government support helped secure the company’s investment in Shepparton, which offers well-established
food manufacturing capabilities and close proximity to high-quality milk supply in Northern Victoria. The project has
already generated 35 full-time jobs, which will grow to 52 full-time jobs over the next three years.
HORNE ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE ACCESS
The $8.3 million Horne Road Warrnambool Eastern Industrial Precinct Project was officially opened in June. The three
kilometre north-south connector road between Wangoom Road and Raglan Parade, which has received $3.6 million
through the Regional Growth Fund, will provide access to Warrnambool’s new industrial precinct, envisaged as a longterm hub for industry and employment growth in the region.
The road also creates a key north-south link between the Princes Highway West and the Hopkins Highway, providing a
safer and more efficient route for traffic and transport operators, and removing the need for industrial traffic to pass
through central parts of Warrnambool.
Although Warrnambool is consistently one of Victoria’s fastest growing regional cities, non-residential investment has not
kept pace with Warrnambool’s population growth, due partly to a lack of readily available industrial land that can
accommodate new investment. This limited supply is contributing to the high cost of industrial land, constraining
investment and compromising the scale of employment growth in the region.
Stage 1 of the Horne Road – Access to the Warrnambool Eastern Industrial Precinct project will enable the release of 65
hectares of industrial land to the market, with the potential for a further 42 hectares to the north and south to be rezoned
on a stage-by-stage basis. The project will deliver long-term access to the new industrial precinct and provide clear
direction on where industry and employment growth in Warrnambool will occur over the next 15 years.
MILDURA AIRPORT
In July Victoria’s busiest regional airport officially opened its new terminal after completion of the $6.4 million
redevelopment of Mildura Airport, which benefited from $5.2 million from the Regional Growth Fund.
Mildura Airport accommodates well over 200,000 passengers and supports three major airlines, while providing an
important hub for air ambulance, flight training, aerial agriculture, parachuting, military and charter flights. It is a vital
element to the continued growth and development of the Sunraysia economy and plays an important role in sustaining a
number of major events and festivals in the region.
The extensive redevelopment works include improved check-in areas, baggage systems and car parks, while the overall
size of the terminal has almost doubled, easing delays and congestion issues that resulted when the airport was
frequently pushed to capacity during peak periods. The new terminal will support greater passenger numbers, facilitate
new direct air services to and from Sydney, Adelaide, and Broken Hill, and provide improved amenities for airport users.
WODONGA CENTRAL BUSINESS AREA
A $4.3 million project to realign and improve three key roads in the heart of Wodonga will allow for the development of a
new retail precinct in the city, unlocking a multimillion dollar investment that will have lasting impacts on employment, the
economy and quality of life in Wodonga.
The project will deliver significant ongoing economic benefits for the city, with the retail precinct - to include a
supermarket, discount department store, specialty retail and food shops and car parking - expected to generate up to
$20 million worth of non-food retail expenditure a year, while creating hundreds of direct jobs and many more indirect
jobs in the Wodonga CBD.
Wodonga is among the fastest growing regional cities in Victoria, with a growth rate of 1.6 per cent. RDV’s contribution of
$2.1 million will enable work to begin on the vital road infrastructure, which will also provide safe pedestrian and bicycle
access as well as improved bus interchanges in and out of the CBD.
AUSTRALIAN TARTARIC PRODUCTS
In June Australian Tartaric Products’ new
$11 million biomass-fuelled boiler and power-generation system was officially launched at the company’s manufacturing
plant in Colignan, a small rural town located on the Murray River, 50 kilometre south-east of Mildura.
The $11.1 million Waste to Energy Biomass Boiler Project will see the new plant utilise grape marc – grape stems, skins
and lees from wineries in the NSW Riverina, Swan Hill and Sunraysia regions – to provide almost all of its energy needs,
with the company expecting to save in excess of $1.5 million in fuel, LPG and electricity costs each year. It is the first
major biomass boiler and power generator utilising organic waste to operate at a manufacturing business in regional
Victoria, and will keep 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere every year.
Australian Tartaric Products is Australia’s only producer of natural tartaric acid, commonly used as an antioxidant,
preservative and leavening agent in food, wine and pharmaceutical production. The project, which received $1.8 million
from the State Government, will dramatically improve the company’s competitiveness against imported synthetic tartaric
acid. Six new jobs were created for plant operators and maintenance staff as a result of the project, which also secured
the jobs of 34 employees at the company.
BURRA FOODS KORUMBURRA
In May the first batches of Burra Foods’ new infant formula rolled off the company’s Korumburra production line after the
completion of a $22 million expansion project that received $1.5 million through the Regional Growth Fund.
The expansion has enabled Burra Foods to produce nutritional milk powders as well as a new range of products for
infants, toddlers and the elderly. The products, produced primarily for the export market, will allow the company to take
full advantage of increasing demand for nutritional milk powder products in Asian markets.
The project included the construction of a state-of-the-art water treatment plant that allows the company to produce infant
formula using the highest quality of ultra-purified water possible. Important water saving measures were also carried out
as part of the expansion, which will reduce pressure on the town’s water supply by at least 165 megalitres a year and
significantly reduce trade waste discharges.
State Government support was a key component to facilitating Burra Foods’ investment, which created 60 construction
jobs, 26 new full time jobs, and secured more than 100 existing jobs at the Korumburra plant.
GEELONG LIBRARY AND HERITAGE CENTRE
In July the first sod was turned on the new $45 million Geelong Library and Heritage Centre.
The development, which will deliver a new state-of-the-art home for two important community institutions, received
support of $15 million from the Regional Growth Fund. Expected to receive more than one million visitors annually, and
designed to meet current and future demand from Geelong’s growing population, the landmark venue with its striking
dome-shaped design will be a key component in the revitalization of Geelong’s cultural and heritage precinct.
Due for completion in late 2015, and designed to incorporate the latest in information technology and sustainable design,
the new centre will feature a library space over three levels, café and courtyard, exhibition and display areas, children’s
exploration and discovery zone, multipurpose learning spaces and a dedicated heritage centre reading room.
WARRNAMBOOL REGIONAL AVIATION PROJECT
Warrnambool Regional Airport will undertake a $4.3 million project to significantly improve its capacity and meet growing
demand from new and existing businesses to establish and expand their operations at the airport.
The lack of industrial land, hangar capacity and transport infrastructure at the airport is currently restricting new
investment and risking the loss of significant economic development opportunities in aviation-related industries across
the region. Warrnambool Airport currently consists of 16 occupied hangars that house business, recreational and
emergency services aircraft.
The project, which received $1.45 million from the Regional Growth Fund and $2 million from the State Government’s
Regional Aviation Fund, will involve the construction of taxiways, hangar access roads, drainage and essential services
to facilitate investment in up to 20 additional hangar sites at the Airport.
BENDIGO ART GALLERY
In March the $8.5 million redevelopment of the Bendigo Art Gallery was officially opened, significantly expanding the
capacity and functionality of one of the city’s key cultural institutions.
The expansion will assist the gallery in attracting larger, world-class exhibitions, drawing more visitors, and building on
the gallery’s reputation as a key economic stimulator in the region. The gallery currently attracts more than 300,000
visitors each year.
Included in the expansion project, which received $3.775 million from the State Government, is the creation of a new
‘Park Gallery’ exhibition area featuring open and flexible spaces for major exhibitions, a new multi-purpose ‘Pavilion
Gallery’, and the construction of a new back-of-house loading dock and exhibition management area.
LATERTOUCHE WATER MAIN REPLACEMENT PROJECT
Gippsland’s Jindi Cheese will double its production by 2016 thanks to a $1.14 million water main replacement project in
Labertouche that will also provide a secure water supply to 19 domestic and stock customers.
The project, which received $570,000 from the Regional Growth Fund, will replace five kilometres of water supply main
from Old Sale Road to Old Telegraph Road, which has reached the end of its useful life and is at critical risk of failure,
presenting a significant operational risk for the company. By providing a reliable and secure water supply, the project will
remove a significant constraint on the company’s investment and expansion plans, which include plans to invest $6
million in its Gippsland plant over the next five years, securing its future and creating vital new jobs.
Jindi Cheese is an award-winning soft cheese maker that supplies Australia’s major and independent supermarkets and
restaurants. With a current workforce of 52 it is the largest employer in Jindivick and a significant employer in Baw Baw
Shire.
BRIGHT OFF-RIVER STORAGE
In November work officially commenced on a new 520 megalitre dam at Freeburgh in Victoria’s North East, which will
provide vital water security for Bright, Wandiligong and Porepunkah. The $14.5 million Bright Off-River Water Storage
project, which received $2 million through the Regional Growth Fund, will help meet the urban water needs of the three
towns and also deliver significant environmental benefits for the Ovens River.
Once completed, off-river storage will allow water to be taken from the river during the winter months when flows are
high, eliminating the need to extract water during the summer months when environmental flows are naturally lower. The
new storage will increase water supply reliability from 65 per cent to 95 per cent across the three towns, providing muchneeded certainty for business and domestic water customers in this region, while the increased flow of water during
summer will dramatically improve river health and aquatic life.
The new dam is expected to be completed in 2014.
BEAUFORT RAIL
More than 150 properties are now better protected from flooding as a result of new infrastructure works on the Beaufort
rail line. Four new drainage culverts will reduce water levels by 40 centimetres during a one-in-a-hundred-year flood
event, protecting industrial, commercial and residential properties from unexpected flooding.
The project creates certainty for local businesses and provides them with the confidence to plan for future growth,
generating jobs and strengthening the local economy. At Broadbent Court industrial estate, located east of the city near
the Western Highway, land previously at risk of inundation can now be developed, generating an estimated 29 jobs.
Users of the Ararat-Ballarat rail line and the Western Highway – major transport links for passengers and freight – will
also enjoy safer, more reliable travel as a result of the works. The $2.5 million project, which was delivered significantly
under budget, received $925,000 through the Regional Growth Fund.
MARYSVILLE GOLF CLUB REDEVELOPMENT
One of the few community facilities in Marysville to survive the devastating Black Saturday bushfires in 2009, the
Marysville Community Golf and Bowls Club received a significant facelift in 2014, with a $2 million redevelopment
continuing the town’s long recovery process.
Supported by the State Government as well the Marysville and Triangle Community Bushfire Relief Fund, the project
involved the demolition of the western end of the clubhouse and construction of a new function room that can
accommodate more than 200 people. New clubhouse areas include a members’ lounge, meeting room, bar, kitchen, pro
shop and outdoor timber deck, allowing the club to serve more meals and attract more patrons.
The redevelopment is another important milestone in Marysville’s recovery, giving visitors another reason to return to the
popular tourist destination. The project is due for completion in September 2014.
PORT OF ECHUCA REVITALISATION
The $5 million Port of Echuca Discovery Centre officially opened in December, showcasing the rich history of the Port
and providing a new entrance to the $15 million Port of Echuca Revitalisation Project, which received $5 million from the
State Government.
The Centre, a contemporary design that incorporates recycled wharf timber to reflect its location and past, allows visitors
to engage with the rich history of the precinct and significantly improves the display of the port’s many artefacts.
The Port of Echuca Revitalisation Project involves the redevelopment of the historic Echuca Wharf and a number of
associated precinct works, such as the establishment of onion patch mooring infrastructure, the construction of new red
gum walkways and two new retail areas in Murray Esplanade.
The Port of Echuca is one of the key visitor attractions on the Murray River and provides an opportunity for more than
60,000 visitors annually to experience the inland river port and the region’s rich history. The Port directly employs around
95 people and supports an estimated 3,000 tourism-related jobs in the Campaspe and Murray Shires, contributing
approximately $250 million to the local economy.
MILDURA RIVERFRONT
In 2013-14 progress continued on delivery of the $18.3 million Stage One Mildura Riverfront Redevelopment, a project
that will reimagine Mildura’s riverfront and its connection to the city, creating tourism, business, recreational and lowdensity residential opportunities.
Stage one of the project will upgrade parklands and path networks, improve landscaping and public signage, increase
waterfront access, introduce public art and café opportunities, and install a city to river pedestrian connection at Langtree
Avenue. Stage one received $12 million through the Regional Growth Fund, as well as significant contributions from the
Federal Government and Mildura Rural City Council.
As part of stage one, in November an early works program was initiated with landscaping works in the Nowingi Place,
delivering car park works, pathway connections, and the construction of new public amenities and BBQ facilities. In May
2014, landscaping and public amenities works were completed and helped Mildura host the Triple J One Night Stand
event, which saw more than 15,000 visitors to the Nowingi Place precinct on the Mildura Riverfront.
ENERGY FOR THE REGIONS
The $100 million Energy for the Regions program continued to fund
the extension of natural gas across regional Victoria and encourage
associated investment in the regions.
Work on the Energy for the Regions Program continued in 2013-14, with announcements made on the supply of natural
gas to Koo Wee Rup and Warburton. This brings the number of regional towns to be connected to seven, with Mildura’s
gas supply network also being augmented under the program.
Gas distributor SP AusNet is soon to complete the supply of natural gas to Huntly, one of the first towns to be connected
under the Program. SP AusNet has now installed and commissioned 3,318 metres of supply main and 13,298 metres of
reticulation pipeline in Huntly, with a number of residents already accessing natural gas through the newly constructed
network.
To connect the remaining priority towns, on 3 September 2013 RDV released an $85 million Request for Tender (RFT)
for supply of natural gas using alternative delivery solutions, including compressed natural gas (CNG) and/or liquefied
natural gas (LNG) to leading energy companies with the technical and financial capability to participate in a tender. The
RFT includes $55 million for the supply of natural gas to the remaining priority towns, and an additional $30 million for the
connection of Murray River communities (including $15 million of Commonwealth funding).
CNG and LNG solutions typically involve increasing the energy density of natural gas. This gas is then transported by
road trailer or tanker to a storage location near a regional town, avoiding the significant costs involved in the construction
of major pipelines. The natural gas is then reticulated from the storage location to homes and businesses. A CNG or
LNG delivery solution has the potential to deliver on the Victorian Government’s commitment to provide natural gas to
towns in regional Victoria at a comparable price, safety and level of service and convenience to natural gas sourced from
a conventional pipeline.
The RFT has now closed and RDV is currently negotiating with respondents. An outcome to the RFT is expected in the
second half of 2014.
SUPPORTING LOCAL INITIATIVES
RDV recognises the vital role that rural and regional communities can
play in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing their
regions. Through a range of targeted programs, we seek to support
stronger and more sustainable regional communities by building their
capacity to drive development and maximising the impact of local
investment.
PUTTING LOCALS FIRST
The $100 million Putting Locals First Program component of the Regional Growth Fund enables regional communities to
determine and deliver service and infrastructure responses that reflect their local priorities.
At 30 June 2014, commitments from the program totalled $75.96 million towards 658 projects with a total project cost of
$194.93 million. This included:
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$24.04 million to 111 shared-use community facilities;
$10.25 million to 51 open space projects;
$9.83 million to 39 streetscape projects;
$5.97 million to 112 local strategic and project planning initiatives;
$3.67 million to 51 business and industry development initiatives; and,
$1.18 million to 84 local and regional events.
In 2013-14, $22.58 million was approved for 279 projects under the Putting Locals First Program, including:
BALLARAT OLYMPIC PRECINCT UPGRADE
The Olympic Rings Precinct in Ballarat, which celebrates the Olympic rowing events held at Lake Wendouree in 1956,
will receive a welcome facelift after receiving a $60,000 grant to support the $90,000 redevelopment. The improvements
will include landscaping and irrigation works, a new flagpole, and the installation of new bluestone paving that will form a
border around the perimeter of the precinct.
The project is due to be completed ahead of the World Masters Rowing Regatta, which will be held at Lake Wendouree
in October 2014.
MURPHY FRESH
25 jobs will be created following a major upgrade and expansion by Mansfield hydroponic tomato producer Murphy
Fresh. The project includes packaging facility upgrades and the installation of a new switchboard, biomass boiler and
water tanks. Together with the expansion of its existing glasshouse, the company is expecting to double its production of
premium grade truss tomatoes for the Australian fresh food market. The $1.5 million expansion was supported by a
$150,000 grant through the Putting Locals First Program.
HINDMARSH SHIRE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
Hindmarsh Shire Council will develop a five-year economic strategy to maximise regional output, job creation and
investment thanks to a $90,000 grant under the program. The Hindmarsh Shire Economic Development Strategy will
provide the basis for council’s response to economic development challenges and opportunities from 2014 to 2019,
creating a clear and concise economic plan that will identify opportunities where the region holds a comparative
advantage, such as in grain production, intensive animal industries, transport and manufacturing.
The $120,000 strategy will document the infrastructure and services needed to support growing sectors, such as nature
and heritage-based tourism, and through consultation with government, business and industry stakeholders, and will also
look at opportunities to diversify employment across the region, growing job opportunities.
YARRAM DISTRICT HUB
The Yarram District Hub, a long-held community priority to consolidate a range of community and family services and
infrastructure under one roof, will go ahead thanks to a $500,000 contribution from the Putting Locals First Program.
The $5.3 million project, which will draw on a total State Government contribution of just under $2 million, will provide
families in Yarram and surrounding communities with access to high-quality childcare, kindergarten, maternal and child
health services, an expanded library, and local government services in one integrated, state-of-the-art facility.
The new facility will also include an upgrade to the Yarram swimming pool, kiosk, change area and reception facility,
along with community meeting spaces and increased car parking.
YARRIAMBIACK CREEK PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
$220,000 from the Putting Locals First Program will support the $295,000 Yarriambiack Creek Pedestrian Bridge project
in Warracknabeal.
The new pedestrian bridge across the Yarriambiack Creek will boost public safety and improve access to the creek’s
existing walking tracks. The creek has a significant presence in Warracknabeal, with the weir pool and surrounding area
utilised for a range of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, water skiing, fishing and picnics.
Currently the only crossing is via a vehicle bridge, presenting a considerable hazard to pedestrians. The swing bridge will
complete a seven kilometre walking track and allow all users to complete a full loop between the east and west walking
tracks in a safe and leisurely manner. The new bridge will also allow for easier access to the many waterside events held
at Warracknabeal.
LORNE FILM FESTIVAL 2013
A $10,000 grant through the Putting Locals First Program helped support the inaugural Lorne Film Festival, held
between 15 and 17 November 2013. The three-day festival attracted over 1000 patrons, exhibited 29 films across 5
screens, and drew film professionals from across Australia to the Great Ocean Road region, providing a significant boost
to the local economy outside its traditional peak tourist period.
Seeking to nurture a strong film culture in Lorne and the Otway region for the duration of the event, the festival included
workshops, live screenplay readings and Q&A sessions to complement the diverse screening schedule.
In 2014, festival organisers aim to grow the event to run over four days, targeting more than 3000 attendees, pursuing a
long-term vision of expanding the festival into an international event where people gather to buy, sell, watch, and talk
about film.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM
In 2013-14 the $100 million Local Government Infrastructure Program component of the Regional Growth Fund
continued to provide all 48 regional and rural councils with a flexible funding stream to plan and build new infrastructure
and renew crucial community assets.
To date, more than $95.23 million has been allocated against 411 projects nominated by rural and regional councils, with
a total value of $272.85 million. The program is creating greater certainty for councils to plan and deliver key
infrastructure projects scheduled as part of their existing capital works plans. Projects nominated by councils included:
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$20.49 million to 86 community outdoor spaces;
$2.83 million to 19 environmental or sustainability based initiatives;
$20.32 million to 77 road or bridge infrastructure projects;
$10.10 million to 44 sports facilities; and,
$2.97 million to 21 tourism-related facilities.
The following examples represent projects supported by the Local Government Infrastructure Program in 2013-14.
BENDIGO LIBRARY
The $9.5 million Bendigo Library redevelopment was officially opened in February 2014, providing Bendigo residents
with state-of-the-art library services including a computer research space with free Wi-Fi, community lounge, coffee shop,
and engaging performance spaces. The City of Greater Bendigo Council directed all of its $2 million allocation under the
Local Government Infrastructure Program toward this major project, allowing it to leverage the remaining funds from a
wide variety of sources including the Goldfields Library Corporation, the Hugh DT Williamson Foundation and the State
Government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program. Council also provided a significant funding contribution.
Known as the New Generation Bendigo Library, the facilities also include exhibition spaces for visual arts and an
engaging children’s area to encourage early reading. The library will also provide a new home to the Bendigo Volunteer
Resource Centre, encouraging greater volunteerism within the community. Prior to the redevelopment, the existing
library had not been subject to any upgrades or renewal works since it first opened in 1984.
Attracting over 500,000 visitors each year, the improvements are expected to increase patronage by up to 100,000. In
May 2014, the Bendigo library redevelopment was short-listed for the prestigious Victorian Architecture Awards.
NHILL AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE
An estimated 500 people attended the official opening of the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre in May 2014, which was
supported by $354,000 through the Local Government Infrastructure Program.
The $500,000 centre, housed in a restored hangar measuring 30 by 25 metres, is designed to reflect the appearance of
Nhill aerodrome’s original Bellman Hangar. The Centre houses a partially restored Avro Anson aeroplane, which takes
pride of place amongst a large assortment of memorabilia from the Second World War, when the aerodrome was utilised
as an RAAF training base.
The Heritage Centre pays tribute to more than 10,000 navigators and radio operators who trained at Nhill and went on to
serve in the Second World War.
YEA SHIRE HALL REFURBISHMENT
The popular Yea Shire Hall has been returned to its former glory after an extensive $750,000 renovation supported with
$250,000 through the Local Government Infrastructure Program.
The two-storey hall, built in 1894, housed the original Yea shire offices. Heritage advisors worked closely on the project
to ensure this important part of Yea’s history remained true to its era. The extensive refurbishment included stabilisation
works, stage renewal and upgrades to the sound, lighting and electrical infrastructure, replastering and painting,
refinishing of the timber floor, as well as new hall and stage curtains, refurbished dressing rooms, and the installation of
kiln dried hardwood stairs at the rear of the stage. Heating and cooling units were also installed for the first time to ensure
the comfort of patrons and performers, and allow the hall to be utilised all year round.
The project also involved a new extension to the original building, to house a greenroom, toilet facilities, a supper room
and kitchen. The hall was officially re-opened in May 2014 after almost four years of planning, preparation and
construction.
DEVELOPING STRONGER REGIONS
The Developing Stronger Regions Program supports the provision of
better infrastructure, facilities and services in regional Victoria by
providing funding toward the investigation and assessment of
technical and economically viable projects.
FALLS TO HOTHAM ALPINE CROSSING
The alpine walking route between Falls Creek and Mount Hotham, identified as one of four ‘icon walks’ in Victoria, is set
to undergo a range of long-term improvements after a master plan to explore options for its future development received
funding of $50,000.
Tourism North East’s $150,000 Master Plan for the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing will further the development of the
popular walk, developing a series of detailed designs for its alignment and layout, as well as identifying possible
campsite locations, key areas for potential accommodation, and options for other visitor destinations.
The master plan will also assess additional route options and explore design and life-cycle issues to minimise the need
for infrastructure and ongoing maintenance.
MINERAL SPRINGS GEELONG
A Mineral Springs Spa and Wellness Centre on Geelong’s Eastern Beach is now one step closer to becoming a reality,
with a grant of $60,000 provided to the City of Greater Geelong, who will undertake a $120,000 feasibility report.
The report will analyse and consolidate the findings from previous technical investigations as well as incorporate a
market sounding exercise to determine private sector interest in the development of a mineral spa and wellness complex
at the popular swimming and recreational area.
The report will also investigate a business plan for the project, currently estimated to have a total development cost in
excess of $20 million.
FUNCTIONAL DESIGN OF A DEDICATED WATER SUPPLY PIPELINE
Dedicated work to improve water supply and security for one of Victoria’s most important dairy producers has been
undertaken after a contribution of $30,000 from the Developing Stronger Regions Program.
The $97,000 project, undertaken by the Goulburn Valley Region Water Corporation, looked into options for establishing a
dedicated water supply pipeline that would link the Cobram Water Treatment Plant to Murray Goulburn Co-operative’s
Cobram processing plant.
Murray Goulburn is a major contributor to the local economy, employing approximately 500 people, and a secure water
supply will allow the company to meet increased demand and invest in future expansion. The study will inform a number
of decisions around pipeline construction, including route options, infrastructure requirements and cost estimates.
REGIONAL GROWTH FUND:
OTHER KEY INITIATIVES
Through the Regional Growth Fund, the Government also supported
a range of other major initiatives during 2013-14, including the
Regional Partnerships Facilitation Fund, the Regional Community
Leadership Program and the Rural Council Planning Flying Squad.
REGIONAL PARTNERSHIPS FACILITATION FUND
Through the Regional Partnerships Facilitation Fund, RDV supported higher education and vocational education and
training institutions to adopt new partnership models that improve access to higher education in regional and rural
Victoria. The $20 million Fund has now supported 15 initiatives and leveraged further in-kind and financial contributions
from project partners of approximately $28 million. Through these initiatives a total of 2600 new enrolments are
anticipated.
The Fund has supported initiatives such as La Trobe University’s Tertiary Enabling Program (TEP), which extends an
existing pilot program at the university’s Albury-Wodonga campus to Bendigo, Mildura and Shepparton in collaboration
with regional TAFE providers. The program delivers an 18-week foundation course to prepare indigenous and refugee
students for tertiary education, focusing on academic study skills across four inter-related introductory subjects: social
science, adult learning, mathematics, and science. The TEP has experienced strong demand with 109 enrolments
across the three delivery locations, exceeding the initial target of 90.
REGIONAL COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Implementation of the Regional Community Leadership Program continued in 2013-14, driving regional development by
building leadership capability in key business and community sectors across regional and rural Victoria. Nine community
leadership programs are currently supported under the $6 million initiative.
Over the past three years more than 650 participants have completed one of these programs, building skills, knowledge,
and confidence while establishing a broad network of graduates with wide-ranging experiences.
The program is supported by a secretariat, charged with building the capability and profile of the individual programs,
while monitoring and assessing their long-term impact. In 2014 a survey of the program’s key stakeholders was
undertaken, complementing an earlier survey of past participants. The two surveys quantified the contributions of past
participants through engagement and in-kind contributions to community organisations, valuing this work at over $13
million per year to over 1300 community organisations.
RURAL COUNCIL PLANNING FLYING SQUAD
During 2013-14, RDV also helped regional and rural communities plan for change and growth through the $2.8 million
Rural Council Planning Flying Squad, which provides expert technical assistance to regional and rural councils on issues
such as major projects and developments, long-term land use, strategic plans as well as immediate planning support
with planning permit and amendment work.
The initiative has now delivered 132 projects, including recent work undertaken with Greater Shepparton City Council
where the Flying Squad assisted with a number of amendments including the development of a master plan for the
Unilever factory in Tatura. The master plan will cut red tape and time to enable the company to explore long-term plan to
expand its operations over the next 15 years.
PLACE-BASED SOLUTIONS
The Victorian Government supports place-based approaches to
economic development that utilise local knowledge and leadership to
address changing economic conditions and encourage the economic
potential of communities. RDV works with regional industry and
communities to identify strategic advantages in skills, innovation and
resources which can drive economic growth.
GEELONG ADVANCEMENT FUND
Launched in March 2013, the $11 million Geelong Advancement Fund responds to recent industry downsizing in the
Geelong area by supporting initiatives that increase jobs, skills and innovation and deliver economic and community
infrastructure in the city.
Administered by RDV, the competitive fund supports collaborative ventures with public and private sector, education and
community organisations that will improve economic and liveability outcomes in Geelong.
Projects funded under the Geelong Advancement Fund in 2013-14 include:
ST MARY’S HALL REDEVELOPMENT
The heritage listed St Mary’s Hall will be transformed into a publicly accessible Barwon Health medical library and
community hub after the project received a grant of $3 million.
It forms part of the broader revitalisation of the former St Mary’s School site, a key location in the Geelong CBD, which
will undergo a $65 million redevelopment to create 193 dwellings that will mix privately owned residences with social
housing, accommodation for Barwon Health patients and staff, and a range of community facilities. The project received
total State Government funding of $7.36 million and will create up to 50 full time ongoing jobs, in addition to 100
construction jobs, regenerating a long-derelict site and greatly improving the amenity of the Geelong CBD.
KOMMERCIAL FACTORY
Not-for-profit service provider Karingal will undertake a major expansion of its Kommercial Factory in North Geelong with
the support of a $650,000 grant toward the $4.65 million project. The expanded factory will deliver 60 new jobs to the
community, including 20 for people with disabilities. As well as the creation of these new jobs, the three-building facility in
Douro Street will secure the jobs of 63 current employees (including 45 with disabilities). Business activities at the new
facility will include packaging, warehousing, storage, laundry operations, catering, food production and industrial land
care.
Kommercial is a Geelong-based Australian Disability Enterprise that provides employment for people with a disability in a
supportive work environment, providing catering services and gourmet food production, garden and grounds
maintenance and outsourced business tasks.
DEAKIN STUDENT ACCOMMODATION
The $8.1 million Deakin University student accommodation project, which received a grant of $850,000 through the
Geelong Advancement Fund, will redevelop the iconic T&G building in the heart of Geelong’s CBD, creating 33 new
student apartments. Located just 600 metres from Deakin’s waterfront campus, the project will establish the first
dedicated student accommodation for the growing campus.
Each of the 33 studio apartments will include a kitchenette, ensuite bathroom and study area, while common areas will
include a large kitchen, central laundry facilities, lounge and an outdoor area. Funding will be complemented by a
Commonwealth Government contribution of $3.1 million to support rental subsidies, ensuring the apartments remain
affordable for students over the next 10 years.
LATROBE VALLEY INDUSTRY
AND EMPLOYMENT ROADMAP
In the Latrobe Valley, RDV has worked with a broad range of local stakeholders to develop and implement the Latrobe
Valley Industry and Employment Roadmap, a coordinated, long-term plan for future industry and employment growth in
the Latrobe Valley. The Roadmap identifies strategic directions for managing the challenge of structural adjustment and
repositioning the Latrobe Valley’s economy for sustainable long -term growth.
This work is underpinned by the $15 million Latrobe Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund (LVIIF), which works to
strengthen the workforce, support enhanced competitiveness and innovation, and enable growth and diversification to
ensure a sustainable future for the Latrobe Valley. At the end of June 2014, more than $10.1 million in LVIIF funding had
been announced for 28 projects with a total project cost of over $40 million. These projects are expected to create more
than 400 jobs. Projects announced or completed in 2013-14 include:
AUSTRALIAN SUSTAINABLE HARDWOODS
In June 2014 Victoria’s largest hardwood saw mill, located in Heyfield, officially completed a $2.7 million expansion
project supported by $500,000 through the LVIIF and an additional $150,000 through RDV’s Living Regions Living
Suburbs program.
The improved mill now includes a new horizontal finger joiner, an extension to the current finger joining and laminating
facility, the establishment of a hard stand site as well as new equipment for the joiner line. The works will create
significant efficiencies in the production of high quality manufactured timber products such as window and door frames,
door stiles and flooring, providing significant import replacement opportunities.
Australian Sustainable Hardwoods is the main recipient of high quality timber in Gippsland, and its ongoing operation in
Heyfield is essential to the viability of the local forestry industry. The expansion will safeguard 190 existing jobs and
create 15 new jobs at the mill.
LION DAIRY
In October 2013 Lion Dairy and Drinks, one of the Latrobe Valley’s biggest employers, officially completed a $2.1 million
project to increase its electricity capacity with the support of a $490,000 grant.
The project involved construction of 11.5 kilometres of underground electricity cabling to provide Lion with a dedicated
higher capacity electricity feeder, as well as the installation of a 2.5 MVA transformer and related distribution boards. The
works will deliver greater electricity capacity and a more reliable supply for the company and allow for future expansion,
while also providing significant reliability and capacity benefits for 110 businesses and more than 990 residential
properties who share the existing feeder to the site.
Lion Dairy and Drinks, formerly National Foods, employs more than 160 people at its Morwell facility, and is Australia’s
largest single manufacturing site for the production of yoghurt, dairy desserts and sour cream.
LONGWARRY FOOD PARK
A $500,000 grant has supported Longwarry Food Park to undertake the development of a $2.8 million Portion Pack UHT
production line. The project will allow the company to produce a 250ml UHT milk TetraPak at its Longwarry
manufacturing plant, creating 15 new jobs and significantly increasing production.
The new product line is specifically aimed at the Asian market, and will increase the company’s exports while continuing
to grow the Asian marketplace for Victorian dairy producers.
DROUIN WEST TIMBER AND TRUSS
Drouin West Timber and Truss will undertake a $2.23 million project that will provide the company with a new
manufacturing facility capable of producing materials for up to 500 homes each year.
The project, which received a grant of $700,000, will deliver state-of-the-art equipment that will facilitate advanced timber
construction methods, producing pre-clad exterior walls and floor sections that, along with roof trusses, can be delivered
to the building site and erected in as little as one week, cutting up to 10 weeks from the construction time of new homes.
Twenty-two new jobs will be created as well as a further eight new jobs during the project’s construction phase.
The projects will allow the company to introduce the latest building construction methods to the Victorian market,
positioning itself as one of Gippsland’s most innovative manufacturers and delivering significant cost savings for both
new home owners and the local building industry.
GOULBURN VALLEY INDUSTRY
AND INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
In March 2014, RDV launched the $5 million Goulburn Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund. Through a contestable
grants program, the Fund directly supports businesses and industry in the Goulburn Valley to grow and adapt to
changing market conditions, creating jobs, increasing productivity, and repositioning the economy for sustainable longterm growth. It supports implementation of the Goulburn Valley Fruit Growing Industry Road Map and the Goulburn
Valley Industry and Employment Plan, which set out strategic approaches to leverage new industry, trade, investment
and employment opportunities in response to the challenge of structural adjustment in the region.
The Fund aims to:
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invest in enabling strategic infrastructure to transform and transition the Goulburn Valley;
stimulate businesses and industrial growth by leveraging new investment;
facilitate increased export opportunities or import substitution; and,
create or retain jobs and stimulate economic growth through supply chain innovation and revitalisation.
The Fund has been well received by businesses within the Goulburn Valley catchment area, with a number of
applications already received just two months after the initial launch. RDV has worked to identify priority projects to bring
forward, and is currently working with proponents to finalise funding applications.
RDV continues to liaise with the Goulburn Valley Transition Committee, a Ministerial committee made up of local
stakeholders charged with overseeing the delivery of actions from the Goulburn Valley Industry and Employment Plan
and the Goulburn Valley Fruit Growing Industry Road Map.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
AND REGIONAL RECOVERY
2014 BUSHFIRES
ECONOMIC RECOVERY
The bushfires of January and February 2014 had significant economic impact in several communities across the State.
Restoring business operations is often integral to the recovery of communities following natural disasters such as
bushfires, particularly in those areas where the disaster had a clear economic impact. RDV is delivering a $2.35 million
commitment to support economic recovery from the 2014 bushfires. This funding will support three distinct initiatives:
 2014 Bushfire Recovery - Community Events Package - $150,000;
 Fast Tracking Regional Development Projects in Affected Communities - $1 million; and,
 2014 Bushfires Economic Recovery Fund - $1.2 million.
2014 Bushfire Recovery - Community Events Package
Individual grants have been made available to eligible Councils to fund small community events aimed at re-establishing
social networks and functioning, such as:
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A local festival that provides social networking and community participation opportunities;
A community arts project that explores, records and exhibits experiences from the bushfires;
A fund-raising event where proceeds go back to affected community; or,
A local thank you function for volunteers who have helped with clean-up activities.
Fast Tracking Regional Development Projects in Affected Communities
The Fast Tracking of Regional Development Projects in Affected Communities brings forward economic development
projects in local government areas that suffered the greatest economic impact. Projects will be prioritised through
initiatives such as the Putting Locals First Program.
2014 Bushfires Economic Recovery Fund
The Economic Recovery Fund supports the recovery of communities affected by the 2014 bushfires by stimulating
economic activity. Prioritisation has been given to initiatives identified in the various Recovery Plans developed in the
aftermath of the 2014 bushfires, including Regional Recovery Plans, Community Recovery Plans, Tourism Recovery
Plans and Business Recovery Plans.
FLOOD RECOVERY SUPPORT
In 2013-14, RDV continued delivery of initiatives to support affected communities following the flood events of 2010,
2011 and 2012.
The majority of Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund projects associated with the 2010 and 2011 floods were
completed, including the Central Goldfields Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Re-Establishment project and the
Creswick Bowls Club Relocation project. Projects associated with the 2012 floods continued to be delivered.
The $5 million Flood Support Program, established through the Regional Growth Fund as a partnership between RDV
and the Department of Environment and Primary Industries, was also completed in 2013-14. The program supported five
Catchment Management Authorities to restore flood-damaged catchments and improve environmental conditions for
primary producers and irrigators in flood-affected areas. Outcomes include the direct employment of 59 positions and 37
indirect positions, together with the involvement of 50 volunteers from Landcare, Conservation Volunteers Australia and
Waterwatch and at least 30 landholders working across 15 projects.
In addition to the programs and initiatives outlined above, $8.7 million has been approved to fund 48 projects under the
$10 million Victorian Business Flood Recovery Fund, expected to leverage $137 million in investment and create 793
jobs in Victoria.
FIRE RECOVERY UNIT
Through the Fire Recovery Unit (FRU), RDV continued to provide a central point of contact for information and
connection to services within the State Government for communities affected by the 2009 Black Saturday Bushfires.
In February 2014, the FRU led the coordination and staging of a central commemorative event to mark the fifth
anniversary of the 2009 Victorian Bushfires. This was a significant milestone for many, and the event attracted more than
300 people from across Victoria.
Hosted by the Premier and held at Melbourne Museum, the event featured performances from bushfire-affected
communities and a photo exhibition titled Images of Recovery.
The FRU coordinated the publication of the Victorian Bushfire Recovery Five Year Report, published in early February
2014, which summarised key recovery milestones and achievements over the preceding five years.
MARYSVILLE HOTEL AND CONFERENCE
CENTRE
Identified as one of eight catalyst projects that could assist in the economic recovery of Marysville, construction works on
the $28 million Vibe Hotel Marysville continued to progress well in 2013-14.
The 101-room four-star hotel will feature conference facilities for more than 300 people, a wood-fire grill restaurant/gastro
pub, cafe, deli and bakehouse, as well as a spa and wellness area.
The project remains on track for completion in late 2014 and represents a vital component of Marysville’s tourism-led
recovery from the 2009 Victorian Bushfires. The Vibe Hotel Marysville will provide an important boost to the traditional
tourist destination once completed, drawing visitors, boosting local employment and stimulating the economy.
Construction of the hotel, on the site of the former Cumberland Hotel, has already created up to 85 full-time jobs, and
more than 60 full-time jobs are expected to be created in Marysville once the hotel is completed.
INTEGRATED DELIVERY AND
BUSINESS ENGAGEMENT
This year RDV assumed responsibility for providing integrated regional service delivery on behalf of the Department of
State Development, Business and Innovation (DSDBI), the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) and the
Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure (DTPLI), with our five regional teams providing a crossportfolio, multidisciplinary service to support a more efficient approach to regional development.
RDV provides a local presence and single point of engagement for communities, business, local government and other
stakeholders when accessing a wide-range of government services. The new model allows for a more coordinated and
strategic approach to service delivery and support in our rural and regional communities, encouraging greater
engagement amongst the portfolios of Regional Planning, Sport and Recreation Victoria, and the Office of Aboriginal
Affairs Victoria.
Our Regional Business Engagement teams have worked across Government departments and portfolios to coordinate
investment attraction and export facilitation, supporting regional businesses and helping to develop sustainable industries
that are growth orientated and export focused. Our business engagement model focuses on an integrated approach
encompassing investment, trade, skills, infrastructure and regulation, supporting the economic resilience of regions by
targeting jobs growth and investment opportunities for new and existing businesses.
By improving our engagement, support and connections with regional and rural communities, RDV has been able to
better target informed, locally-driven responses to community and business needs and issues. Significant achievements
highlighting this cross-portfolio approach for each region are highlighted on the following pages.
BARWON SOUTH WEST
SUPPORTING LARA’S COORDINATED GROWTH AREA PLANNING
Facilitating the strategic, sustainable growth of Geelong, Victoria’s largest regional city, is a key priority for Barwon South
West. The Planning and Development Team has worked closely with key stakeholders, including the City of Greater
Geelong, the local community, commercial developers and infrastructure agencies to ensure well-planned and serviced
urban extensions to Lara, one of the designated growth nodes in the municipality. The team’s extensive work culminated
with the approval of three planning scheme amendments to the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme, allowing new
residential and commercial land development at the Lara West Precinct, and new housing developments at both the
Manzeene Village and Caddys Road Precincts. These three precincts will accommodate a total of 4,800 new dwellings.
The Lara West Precinct, which alone comprises 4,000 residential lots, is anticipated to generate a $37 million investment
in roads, community infrastructure and sporting facilities. It will also include an employment hub, expected to provide 300
jobs, a neighbourhood activity centre and three new schools.
AUSTRALIAN LAMB
Australian Lamb Colac processes up to 40,000 lambs per week, and employs approximately 350 staff. The Business
Engagement Team has worked with the company to secure a grant of $250,000 through the Industries for Today and
Tomorrow program to support a $2.35 million expansion of the company’s freezer and cold-store facilities. It will allow the
company, which has export accreditation for the Chinese market, to increase exports into the growing Chinese lamb
market, boosting exports by approximately $5 million per year and creating 25 new jobs in meat processing at Colac.
The expansion comprises a 1,000 carton plate freezer, freezer storage for 500 pallet spaces and an additional loading
dock, reducing reliance on third party cool-stores in Melbourne and allowing direct transport of containers to
the Port of Melbourne.
GREAT OCEAN ROAD HERITAGE CENTRE
Due for completion in November 2014, the Great Ocean Road National Heritage Centre will form part of Lorne’s Visitor
Information Centre, telling the story of the construction of the Great Ocean Road and becoming a focal point for
permanent and temporary historical displays on the history of the Great Ocean Road. The story of the construction of the
Great Ocean Road captures a unique time in Australian history, built with the assistance of more than 3,000 Australian
ex-servicemen over a 13-year period and forming a memorial to those who fought for Australia during World War One.
The project was achieved through a strong partnership between RDV, the Surf Coast Shire Council and the Federal
Government, that each contributed to the total project cost of $750,000.
GIPPSLAND
GIPPSLAND REGIONAL MANAGEMENT FORUM
In late 2013, following the release of the Regional Policy Advisory Committee report Research into Education Aspiration
for Regional Victoria, the Gippsland Regional Management Forum (RMF) identified educational aspiration as a
significant issue affecting the future of the region, with a particular concern around school retention and post-secondary
education attainment levels.
The RMF identified the need for an integrated approach across all government portfolios to achieve long-term change
aimed at providing a future workforce with the required attributes, skills and knowledge to be effectively engaged in
emerging industries. The RMF’s ‘Broadening Horizons’ education project is focused on building stronger connections
between industry and secondary colleges. In partnership with the Beacon Foundation, RMF agencies are working with
secondary colleges across Gippsland to develop workplace learning opportunities linked to curriculum. This includes a
partnership with RDV Gippsland and Maffra Secondary College, which is providing mentoring to Year 8 student groups
who are undertaking experiments and investigations as part of their science curriculum. Co-partners in the ongoing
project include Baw Baw Shire Council, the Department of Health, the Committee for Gippsland and a number of local
industries and businesses.
THE DEADLY IN GIPPSLAND SPIRIT CONFERENCE
The Deadly in Gippsland Spirit Conference, held between 26 and 28 March 2014, was hosted by the East Gippsland
Shire Council in partnership with the East Gippsland Local Indigenous Networks from Bairnsdale, Lakes Entrance,
Orbost and Cann River and Lake Tyers Aboriginal Trust. The conference incorporated presentations, displays,
workshops, forums, cultural activities and tours, and focused on the key themes of health and wellbeing, employment,
education and training, strengthening Aboriginal communities, small business success stories, accountability and
reconciliation.
Over 400 people attended the conference, launched with an exhibition showcasing the work of over 25 Aboriginal artists
from Gippsland.
Collaboration was key to the success of the conference, with support and funding provided by the Gippsland Regional
Management Forum, State and Federal government departments, all six local governments in Gippsland, local
organisations and agencies, and community representatives. The RDV Gippsland team, working closely with the Office
of Aboriginal Affairs, were key contributors to the planning and delivery of the event.
GIPPSLAND REGIONAL GROWTH PLAN
The Gippsland Regional Growth Plan (RGP) presents an overall regional strategy to support a projected population
growth of over 116,000 people by 2041. Developed over three years and endorsed by all six local governments in
Gippsland, the plan provides direction for accommodating growth and development while protecting Gippsland’s key
regional economic and environmental strengths.
The plan sets out directions and recommendations that are designed to encourage the development of productive and
innovative agriculture, forestry and fishery industries, protect brown coal assets and positively address the challenges of
a carbon constrained environment. It also seeks to strengthen key tourism assets including Mount Baw Baw and the
Australian Alps, Wilsons Promontory National Park, Bunorong Coast, Croajingolong National Park and Tarra Bulga
National Park, while supporting the protection of environmental assets such as waterways, scenic landscapes, cultural
heritage sites, inland and coastal landscapes.
The RGP highlights the importance of planning for improvements to the road network and the Dandenong Rail Corridor,
and identifies the need to investigate opportunities for rail and road reserves that connect the region’s economy to the
Port of Hastings. The plan recommends the implementation of integrated land use strategies for Latrobe regional city and
regional centres, as well as the ongoing implementation of the Latrobe Valley Industry and Employment Road Map.
GRAMPIANS
MOORABOOL STRATEGIC EMPLOYMENT AREAS STUDY
Throughout 2013-14 RDV worked collaboratively with Moorabool Shire Council to investigate opportunities for
employment growth in the Parwan area, with a view to creating an employment hub. The Planning, Delivery and
Business Engagement teams from RDV Grampians were all involved in the development of the project, which will allow
Council to better understand the growth potential and local employment opportunities in this key precinct. The study will
identify future employment trends for the catchment area, identify relevant land use requirements, and enable an
increased understanding of industrial, agricultural and value-add industries to better inform the planning framework
required to facilitate development.
Working with the Regional Planning Team will enable the study to provide strategic direction for a number of planning
issues, including those relating to zoning and potential revisions to the Bacchus Marsh Framework Plan, aiming to
recognise Parwan as a potential employment zone. RDV has provided support of $75,000
toward the $125,000 project.
BALLARAT RAILWAY STATION PRECINCT
Throughout 2013-14 work progressed on the Ballarat Railway Station Precinct Master Plan, which will provide detailed
analysis of the precinct’s future use and development and open up new opportunities for the underutilised land and
structures within the site, including the development of a potential transport hub. The Master Plan incorporates the City of
Ballarat’s CBD strategy - Making Ballarat Central - and will facilitate the development and strengthening of Ballarat’s
CBD.
The RDV Grampians team has been working closely with Council and other government agencies including DTPLI and
VicTrack on the development of the plan, with all RDV regional portfolios providing valuable input, from strategic
facilitation in regard to the relevant planning and heritage controls to involvement in the negotiation of potential
commercial investment.
ALEXANDRA OVAL REDEVELOPMENT
The Alexandra Oval, Ararat’s home of AFL, soccer, cricket, hockey, netball and tennis, which also serves as a vibrant
community facility for the people of Ararat, began a major redevelopment in November 2013 and is now nearing
completion.
An infrastructure priority for Ararat Rural City Council, the project underwent an extensive planning process in
consultation with the community and with the support of the RDV Grampians team. Led by Sport and Recreation Victoria,
which coordinated an integrated, regional approach, the initial stages drew heavily on the expertise of both regional and
central planning teams to ensure a highly flexible space that meets community expectations, the functional requirements
of the many organisations who will utilise the site, and occupational health and safety requirements and guidelines. State
Government investment for the $3.8 million facility came from across three funding programs to realise an integrated
investment approach, with significant contributions also provided by Ararat Rural City Council, Ararat Community
Enterprise, the Alexandra Oval Reserve Committee of Management and the Federal Government.
The redevelopment comprises a multipurpose room accommodating over 200 seated patrons, a commercial kitchen, bar
and canteen facilities, meeting rooms, change rooms, home and away club rooms with dedicated facilities for trainers
and umpires and a range of public amenities.
Ararat Rural City Council has commenced discussions with the RDV Grampians team regarding implementation of the
next stage in the oval’s master plan, which will comprise additional sport and recreation infrastructure.
HUME
HUME REGIONAL
GROWTH PLAN OVERVIEW
Developed over three years and endorsed by all twelve local governments within the Hume region, the Hume Regional
Growth Plan (RGP) presents an overall regional strategy to accommodate long-term population growth in the region,
anticipated to increase by an additional 80,000 people by 2041. The RGP recognises the role of the key regional cities of
Shepparton, Wodonga and Wangaratta in accommodating this expansion, but also focuses on towns along Melbourne’s
peri-urban region that will continue to attract significant growth.
The Hume RGP supports the development of existing economic sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture by
identifying strategic agricultural and industrial land, while encouraging investment in emerging industries such as
renewable energy generation. The plan also confirms the importance of maintaining and developing key regional tourism
assets such as national parks, tracks and trails, water bodies and Alpine areas.
The result of close collaboration between RDV and DTPLI, the RGF brought together local governments and a wide
collection of State Government agencies and authorities, producing a plan that reflects regional as well as state-wide
priorities and provides a strong foundation for long-term growth and development across the region.
BENALLA ADVANCING COUNTRY TOWNS (ACT)
The $9.4 million ACT Program aims to create new opportunities and improve the quality of life in nine regional and rural
communities currently experiencing rapid change. The program is targeted at improving links between local, regional and
rural services to ensure they respond appropriately to local needs.
As part of the program, RDV has worked with Benalla Rural City Council and a large group of stakeholders to develop
and implement a number of initiatives aimed at improving the resilience, capacity and prosperity of the Benalla
community, targeting in particular the areas of education, integrated services, and employment, skills and training.
In 2013-14 an Economic Development and Tourism Strategy was developed through broad consultation to provide an
overarching focus for long-term, sustainable growth that encompasses new business, economic diversification and future
tourism potential. RDV worked in partnership with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development
(DEECD), Benalla Rural City Council, Federal Government agencies and local community organisations to develop a
roadmap to support local initiatives emanating from the strategy. Funding through the ACT program was used to
leverage additional contributions through DEECD, Benalla Rural City Council and local philanthropic organisation the
Tomorrow: Today Foundation.
SIGNIFICANT TRACKS AND TRAILS STRATEGY FOR HUME
Coordinated through Sport and Recreation Victoria, the development of a strategic plan for the future development of
Hume’s walking, cycling, mountain bike riding and horse riding tracks sourced contributions from all 12 local government
authorities and the Hume Regional Development Australia Committee.
The project included extensive consultation with key stakeholders, audits of existing trails and analysis of development
trends both nationally and internationally. The final report will inform further infrastructure development and identifies
specific areas to be addressed to create an improved visitor experience. It makes a number of recommendations aimed
at maximising the economic, tourism, environmental, health and lifestyle benefits for the region.
Ongoing development will be overseen by a partnership including representatives from RDV, Sport and Recreation
Victoria, the Department of Environment and Primary Industries, each of the Hume Region local government areas and
Alpine Resort Boards and key trail and cycling organisations.
LODDON MALLEE
BENDIGO HOSPITAL
The $630 million New Bendigo Hospital Project constitutes the largest regional hospital project in Victoria, and one of the
largest regional healthcare projects in Australia. RDV’s Loddon Mallee team has played an active role throughout the
early stages of the project, with the Regional Planning Team actively engaging with the Department of Health, Greater
Bendigo City Council and Bendigo Health to navigate this complex project through the difficult planning process while
ensuring the protection of significant heritage objects and buildings at the site.
The team also assisted in the establishment of the Leveraging the Benefits of the New Bendigo Hospital Steering
Committee, supported by a $350,000 grant from the Regional Growth Fund. The Committee is responsible for identifying
and responding to emerging business opportunities and constraints associated with the project. In 2013-14 key
achievements included:



400 businesses participating in a briefing on the works schedule, contract services and labour requirements;
more than 150 businesses participating in workshops to build capacity to tender for major projects; and,
commencement of a Health Industry Development Plan to assist local businesses to understand opportunities
emerging from the growth of the health sector.
In addition to significant healthcare benefits for the community, the project is expected to generate 735 construction
industry and supply chain jobs and create demand for a range of ancillary opportunities within the Hospital Precinct such
as medical offices, short to medium-term accommodation, high-density residential living and a range of retail activities.
MALLEE DISTRICT ABORIGINAL SERVICES
Mallee District Aboriginal Services (MDAS) will undertake a significant upgrade of its family services building to meet
growing demand in the Northern Loddon Mallee. Mildura’s Aboriginal population has grown by 38% in the last decade,
placing unprecedented demand on MDAS to maintain and improve the quality and breadth of its services. MDAS
currently services between 5,000 and 10,000 clients across Mildura, Swan Hill, Balranald and surrounding areas.
RDV’s Loddon Mallee team has worked with MDAS to develop an expansion proposal that will meet increasing need
over the next 40-50 years and provide greater training and educational opportunities for Aboriginal people in the region.
The $1 million development will be supported by a $500,000 grant through the Putting Locals First Program.
The project represents the first of a three-phase infrastructure upgrade for MDAS, which also includes a new $3 million
medical facility. The new family services building will expand its current floor space by around 500sqm, and include a
new reception area and waiting room, four private meeting rooms, accessible toilet facilities, and a multipurpose
community hall and training room. A landscaped outdoor area will also connect the new building to the medical facility
and include a number of public amenities.
CANTERBURY PARK
A partnership between the City of Greater Bendigo, Sport and Recreation Victoria and RDV will transform Eaglehawk’s
Canterbury Park into a multi-use sports, major events and entertainment space. RDV’s Loddon Mallee team has worked
cooperatively across a number of portfolios to leverage multiple funding streams and maximise the outcomes for the
local community.
The $6.4 million project will include a new sports hub comprising cricket, netball and tennis facilities with external lighting,
a synthetic bowling green and multi-functional pavilion including change rooms, kiosk, multi-purpose room and improved
seating and amenities for spectators. The adjacent Canterbury Park Event Space will include a flexible outdoor space
with speciality lighting and extensive landscaping to accommodate a wide range of uses throughout the year. Funding for
the project included $650,000 through Sport and Recreation Victoria and $500,000 from the Putting Locals First
Program.
DEVELOPING REGIONAL POLICY
INFORMATION PORTAL FOR REGIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
Launched through the RDV website (www.rdv.vic.gov.au) in May 2014, the Regional Victoria Information Portal brings
together around 150,000 data points across hundreds of indicators and 135 geographies to provide interactive and easy
access to the latest information on our regional and rural communities.
By making comprehensive and consistent information available in a single location, the Information Portal aims to enable
more informed decision making and stronger engagement for those involved in regional development, including State
Government, councils, business and industry, universities, research institutions and other stakeholders.
It combines data from a large pool of organisations and government departments, providing information on the economy,
human capital, population, housing, health, physical capital, socio-demographic indicators, geography, and forecasts.
The Information Portal features the following key products:




Regional snapshots via a simple geographic map search or search box function, that provide key indicators,
charts and tables for up to three chosen areas;
Customised tables and charts by simply choosing a region, topic and time series;
A quick and easy guided search option for information without any tables or charts; and,
More information containing links to key online resources and publications.
THINKING REGIONAL AND RURAL
Developed by the Regional Policy Advisory Committee and adopted by the Victorian Government in April 2013, Thinking
Regional and Rural: Guidelines for Assessing Regional and Rural Impacts of Government Policy and Legislation is
designed to strengthen the capability of the Victoria Public Service to identify, monitor and assess the impacts of policy
and legislation on regional and rural Victoria.
Building on the release of the guidelines, in January 2014 RDV launched the Thinking Regional and Rural online tool.
Accessible through the RDV website, the online tool is designed to step Victorian Government policy makers through the
five considerations that comprise the Thinking Regional and Rural impact assessment framework: economy,
accessibility, social and community, environment and equity. It also provides direct links to sources of additional
information on regional and rural Victoria.
Thinking Regional and Rural aims to:



Increase knowledge and understanding of regional and rural issues across government;
Encourage systematic consideration and integration of regional and rural impacts into legislation and policy
development; and,
Generate positive outcomes from these considerations.
The Thinking Regional and Rural online tool and guidelines are available at: http://www.rdv.vic.gov.au/thinking-regionaland-rural.
PROMOTING REGIONAL
AND RURAL VICTORIA
2013 ROYAL MELBOURNE SHOW
RDV once again proudly exhibited at the Show, showcasing to
Melburnians the exciting opportunities available in regional Victoria.
The 2013 Royal Melbourne Show ran over twelve exciting days from 21 September to 2 October, attracting more than
500,000 visitors including a daily attendance record of 82,000 visitors on Sunday 29 September.
RDV’s 2013 display was located inside the Woolworths Pavilion, and embraced a strategy focussed on colour and
interaction to draw visitors in. The stand was divided into the five regional boundaries (Barwon South West, Grampians,
Loddon Mallee, Hume and Gippsland), with each providing a feature display and key information on the region.
Hume provided one of the most popular attractions with the gliding simulator, highlighting that Benalla has won the
hosting rights to the biannual World Gliding Championships in 2016. Another crowd favourite was Gippsland’s race car
simulator, showcasing the Phillip Island Circuit. A more physical challenge was provided by the Loddon Mallee region,
with the Hammer of Happiness from Campaspe Shire. A surfboard photo opportunity from the Barwon South West
region offered an easier challenge as did the cycling rail trails display from the Grampians.
The fun and games all delivered an important message, helping to promote the Good Move regional marketing
campaign and the 2014 Regional Victoria Living Expo.
2014 REGIONAL VICTORIA LIVING EXPO
The third annual Regional Victoria Living Expo attracted more
exhibitors, more sponsors and more attendees than ever before to the
free public event showcasing the benefits of living and working in
Victoria’s regional and rural communities.
The 2014 Regional Victoria Living Expo, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 11 to 13 April,
attracted more than 9,600 people and involved 147 exhibitors, including commercial exhibitors and the State’s 48
regional and rural councils.
Exhibitors showcased the many qualities of their regions and communities, presenting information and advice on jobs,
education, property, health and lifestyle opportunities available in regional and rural Victoria. Brought together under one
roof, the three-day event allowed prospective relocators to gather information and make direct contact with those most
integral to their decision to move, such as local councils and regionally-based organisations.
The event is now a fixture on the annual calendar of events, and has proved particularly popular with young families and
working professionals, including many in the health sector such as doctors, dentists, nurses and healthcare
administrators.
Councils continue to receive extremely positive enquiries from attendees keen to move to their regions.
GOOD MOVE REGIONAL MARKETING
CAMPAIGN
In 2013-14, the Victorian Government’s Good Move regional
marketing campaign continued to showcase the benefits of regional
living to entice city dwellers to make their dreams of moving to the
country a reality.
Since its launch in 2012, the Good Move campaign has featured real-life families that have made the journey from a big
city to enjoy the unique lifestyle and employment opportunities offered by our regional and rural communities.
In 2014 RDV launched a new campaign across TV, print and radio featuring the town of Warracknabeal in the Shire of
Yarriambiack. It builds on previous campaigns that have highlighted Beechworth, Bendigo, Currajong and Port Fairy.
In 2013-14, the Good Move marketing campaign complemented the Regional Victoria Living Expo to position regional
and rural areas as ideal locations to establish a home and take up employment, business and education opportunities
that are equal, if not better, than those available in Melbourne.
FUTURE PRIORITIES 2014-15
RDV priorities for 2014-15 are to continue building on the strengths of
the regions and maintain growth in the face of economic challenges.
These priorities include the following.
REGIONAL GROWTH FUND




Committing funding to regionally significant economic infrastructure projects through the Economic Infrastructure
Program, and continuing to implement the Local Government Infrastructure Program and the Putting Locals First
Program.
Concluding the $85 million tender process under the Energy for the Regions Program to provide natural gas to
the remaining priority towns and communities impacted by the Murray Darling Basin Plan. This process is
expected to be completed in the second half of 2014.
Assisting regional communities with long-term structural adjustment through place-based programs such as the
Geelong Advancement Fund and the Goulburn Valley Industry and Infrastructure Fund.
Delivering major regional economic infrastructure projects including the Marysville Hotel and Conference Centre,
Stage One of the Mildura Riverfront Redevelopment, Stage One of the Ballarat West Employment Zone, and the
Geelong Library and Heritage Centre.
POLICY AND PLANNING






Shaping and influencing the future regional policy agenda together with the Regional Policy Advisory Committee
through mechanisms including internal research on key regional development policy and program areas.
Continuing to improve the evidence base about regional growth and development.
Strengthening and developing the Regional Cities portfolio.
Continuing to monitor and evaluate the Regional Growth Fund, informing the next phase of its delivery.
Advancing the next phase of regional strategic planning in Victoria.
Continuing to deliver the Networked Rural Councils program in partnership with Rural Councils Victoria to help
rural councils address current and future challenges more sustainably.
2015 REGIONAL VICTORIA LIVING EXPO

Capitalising on the success of the 2014 Regional Victoria Living Expo, the event will be held for a fourth
successive year on 1-3 May 2015 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
FINANCE
RDV GRANT PAYMENTS
RDV provided financial assistance through a range of programs
facilitating economic and community development in regional and
rural Victoria.
ADVANCING COUNTRY TOWNS
Organisation
Payment $
Benalla Rural City Council
136,000
Colac Otway Shire
136,000
East Gippsland Shire Council
136,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
156,000
Robinvale District Health Services
136,000
South Gippsland Shire Council
156,000
Total
856,000
BUILDING STRONGER REGIONS PROGRAMS
Organisation
Australia China Business Council
Baw Baw Shire Council
Payment $
100,000
57,000
Central Goldfields Shire Council
759,000
Committee for Gippsland Inc
300,000
Department of Education and Early Childhood Development
7,800,000
Department of Environment and Primary Industries
5,000,000
Department of Health Victoria
2,000,000
Department of Transport Planning and Local Infrastructure
933,332
Destination Gippsland Ltd
8,000
East Gippsland Shire Council
375,000
Greater Bendigo City Council
185,000
Growth Areas Authority
166,666
Latrobe City Council
74,500
Wellington Shire Council
72,000
Total
17,830,498
COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM
FOR BUSHFIRE AFFECTED COMMUNITIES
Organisation
Payment $
Labertouche and District Community Centre Inc
18,750
Latrobe City Council
30,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
202,087
Total
250,837
COMMUNITY RECOVERY FUND
Organisation
City of Whittlesea
Payment $
10,861
Corangamite Shire Council
7,965
Hepburn Shire Council
15,283
Murrindindi Shire Council
34,153
Nillumbik Shire Council
16,550
South Gippsland Shire Council
7,965
Wellington Shire Council
Yarra Ranges Shire Council
Total
303
15,956
109,035
DEVELOPING STRONGER REGIONS PROGRAM
Organisation
Ballarat City Council
Payment $
58,545
Department of Environment and Primary Industries
703,755
Eastern Iron Ltd
300,000
Goulburn Valley Region Water Corporation
30,000
Shire of Towong
26,000
The PRB Food Group Pty Ltd
Warrnambool City Council
Total
200,000
10,000
1,328,300
FARMERS’ MARKETS SUPPORT PROGRAM
Organisation
Payment $
Baw Baw Shire Council
18,000
Friends of St Brigid's Association Inc
10,000
Golden Plains Shire Council
27,500
Hepburn Shire Council
7,500
Hume Murray Food Bowl
10,000
Local Food Connect Inc
15,500
Mitchell Shire Council
4,500
Mornington Chamber of Commerce
2,000
Red Gum Food Group
2,000
South Gippsland Shire Council
5,000
Traralgon Lions Club Inc
Victorian Farmers' Markets Association Inc
Wedderburn Community House Inc
Total
750
94,345
7,500
204,595
FIRE READY COMMUNITIES
Organisation
Casey City Council
Country Fire Authority
Payment $
4,000
10,465
Emerald Centre for Hope and Outreach Inc
7,888
Fawcett Mechanics Institute Reserve Committee of Management
9,559
Healesville Living and Learning Centre Inc
Horsham Rural City Council
Jamieson Community Group and Associated Bodies Inc
Long Gully Neighbourhood Centre
73,796
3,083
886
27,000
Macedon Ranges Shire Council
4,060
Moorabool Shire Council
4,150
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
2,679
Mount Alexander Shire Council
3,000
Northern Grampians Shire Council
3,000
Surf Coast Shire
8,500
Warrandyte Community Association Inc
8,620
Wellington Shire Council
5,000
Total
175,685
FLOOD RECOVERY COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
Organisation
Payment $
Baw Baw Shire Council
125,655
Central Goldfields Shire Council
156,089
East Gippsland Shire Council
18,690
Greater Shepparton City Council
8,445
Hepburn Shire Council
69,900
Horsham Rural City Council
32,356
Latrobe City Council
216,027
Loddon Shire Council
22,831
Mitchell Shire Council
79,169
Murrindindi Shire Council
16,416
Northern Grampians Shire Council
57,157
Pyrenees Shire Council
90,337
Shire of Towong
111,700
Wangaratta Rural City Council
50,750
Wellington Shire Council
88,711
Total
1,144,233
FLOOD RECOVERY OFFICERS
Organisation
Payment $
East Gippsland Shire Council
20,000
Total
20,000
FLOODS COMMUNITY RECOVERY FUND
Organisation
Payment $
Ararat Rural City Council
15,250
Buloke Shire Council
20,860
Campaspe Shire Council
8,000
Central Goldfields Shire Council
8,750
Corangamite Shire Council
Hepburn Shire Council
Horsham Rural City Council
15,250
8,750
18,000
Loddon Shire Council
5,050
Macedon Ranges Shire Council
7,000
Mildura Rural City Council
21,350
Northern Grampians Shire Council
6,138
Shire of Moyne
7,000
Yarriambiack Shire Council
Total
14,633
156,031
LIVING REGIONS LIVING SUBURBS
Organisation
Payment $
Anglican Trusts Corporation of the Diocese of Gippsland
3,000
Australian Sustainable Hardwoods Pty Ltd
150,000
Department of Justice
212,000
Geelong Football Club Ltd
200,000
Geelong Performing Arts Centre
50,000
Gippsland Ports Committee of Management Inc
100,000
Horsham Golf Club
145,000
Mallee Family Care Inc
72,000
Marysville Community Golf and Bowls Club Inc
950,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
181,000
Tourism Victoria
20,000
Yarra Ranges Shire Council
99,000
Total
LOCAL GOVERNMENT INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM
2,182,000
Organisation
Payment $
Alpine Shire
500,000
Ararat Rural City Council
462,000
Ballarat City Council
10,000
Bass Coast Shire Council
900,000
Baw Baw Shire Council
250,000
Benalla Rural City Council
450,000
Buloke Shire Council
461,000
Campaspe Shire Council
1,980,000
Central Goldfields Shire Council
500,000
City of Greater Geelong
250,000
Colac Otway Shire
461,000
Corangamite Shire Council
515,000
East Gippsland Shire Council
670,000
Gannawarra Shire Council
680,000
Glenelg Shire Council
867,460
Golden Plains Shire Council
670,000
Hepburn Shire Council
635,719
Hindmarsh Shire Council
450,000
Horsham Rural City Council
360,000
Latrobe City Council
1,390,000
Macedon Ranges Shire Council
622,000
Mansfield Shire Council
440,000
Mildura Rural City Council
485,000
Mitchell Shire Council
750,000
Moira Shire Council
610,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
690,000
Northern Grampians Shire Council
550,000
Pyrenees Shire Council
173,662
Shire of Moyne
620,000
Organisation
Payment $
Shire of Strathbogie
469,000
Shire of Towong
500,000
Southern Grampians Shire Council
190,450
Swan Hill Rural City Council
425,000
Wangaratta Rural City Council
Warrnambool City Council
85,000
1,490,000
Wellington Shire Council
650,000
Yarriambiack Shire Council
454,000
Total
21,666,291
LOCAL SKILLS PARTNERSHIP
Organisation
Payment $
Alpine Shire
12,000
Ararat Rural City Council
33,750
Baw Baw Shire Council
25,000
Benalla Rural City Council
33,750
Buloke Shire Council
30,000
Campaspe Shire Council
25,000
Central Goldfields Shire Council
33,750
City of Greater Geelong
25,000
Destination Gippsland Ltd
15,000
Gannawarra Shire Council
30,000
Golden Plains Shire Council
37,500
Horsham Rural City Council
33,750
Latrobe City Council
20,000
Mansfield Shire Council
50,000
Northern Grampians Shire Council
35,800
Pyrenees Shire Council
33,750
Shire of Towong
37,500
Southern Grampians Shire Council
33,750
Surf Coast Shire
37,500
Yarriambiack Shire Council
37,500
Total
620,300
MARYSVILLE HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE (DEVELOPMENT)
Organisation
Payment $
Marysville Hotel and Conference Centre Pty Ltd
9,600,000
Total
9,600,000
NETWORKING RURAL COUNCILS
Organisation
Payment $
Municipal Association of Victoria
795,000
Total
795,000
PLANNING FOR TOMORROW PROGRAM
Organisation
Payment $
Ballarat City Council
59,886
Baw Baw Shire Council
24,500
Borough of Queenscliffe
49,500
Corangamite Shire Council
20,000
Deakin University
50,000
East Gippsland Shire Council
1,203
Lake Mountain Alpine Resort Management Board
8,500
Latrobe City Council
1,786
Mildura Rural City Council
5,000
Mitchell Shire Council
25,415
Murrindindi Shire Council
35,000
South Gippsland Shire Council
33,000
Surf Coast Shire
Swan Hill Rural City Council
Wellington Shire Council
Total
PUTTING LOCALS FIRST PROGRAM
100,000
10,000
5,000
428,789
Organisation
Agrifood Skills Australia Ltd
Alberton Timber and Treatment Plant Pty Ltd
Alpine Shire
Alpine Valleys Vignerons Inc
Anglican Trusts Corporation of the Diocese of Gippsland
Apollo Bay Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Inc
Ararat Rural City Council
Payment $
135,000
20,000
728,000
3,000
180,000
44,000
600,100
Audentes Investments Pty Ltd
3,000
Australian Dairy Conference Ltd
9,000
Bacchus Marsh Community Unlimited Inc
Ballarat City Council
Ballarat International Foto Biennale Inc
Ballarat Regional Tourism Inc
Baring Recreation Reserve
Bass Coast Shire Council
Baw Baw Latrobe Local Learning and Employment Network Inc
Baw Baw Shire Council
Beechworth Rotary Club Inc
Benalla Auto Club Inc
Benalla Rural City Council
Bertalli's Alpine Breads Pty Ltd
10,000
504,000
5,000
11,000
5,000
83,000
9,000
1,024,500
45,000
270,000
1,001,500
37,500
Borough of Queenscliffe
300,000
Boyntons Australia Pty Ltd
150,000
Buda Historic Home and Garden Inc
Buloke Shire Council
Buninyong and District Community Association Inc
Buninyong Residents' Association Inc
22,950
590,000
1,950
17,550
Organisation
Payment $
Cabbage Tree Public Hall
10,980
Campaspe Shire Council
266,400
Camperdown-Timboon Rail Trail Management Committee Inc
95,000
Castlemaine and Maldon Railway Preservation Society
50,400
Central Goldfields Shire Council
Central Highlands Agribusiness Forum Inc
Chewton Domain Society Inc
City of Greater Geelong
330,950
2,800
16,000
709,950
Colac Area Health
3,000
Colac Otway Shire
393,625
Committee 4 Rochester Inc
Committee for Echuca Moama Inc
18,000
3,000
Committee for Geelong Inc
27,000
Community College Gippsland Ltd
30,960
Community Leadership Loddon Murray Inc
12,000
Corangamite Shire Council
Costa Exchange Holdings Pty Ltd
535,834
65,224
Country Fire Authority
6,000
Cowes Yacht Club Inc
46,000
Creswick Railway Workshops Association Inc
18,000
D & R Henderson Pty Ltd
75,000
Dja Dja Wurrung Enterprises Pty Ltd
26,000
Donald 2000 Inc
1,000
Dried Fruits Australia Inc
24,000
East Gippsland Marketing Inc
52,500
East Gippsland Shire Council
973,500
Echuca Moama and District Tourism Development Association Inc
62,500
Organisation
Payment $
Echuca-Moama Arts Initiative
3,000
Eildon Action Inc
8,000
Fawcett Mechanics Institute Reserve Committee of Management
Federation University Australia
Freshzest Pty Ltd
Gannawarra Shire Council
54,000
4,500
16,000
377,055
Gateways Support Services Inc
30,000
Geelong Otway Tourism Inc
10,000
Gippsland Ports Committee of Management Inc
Girgarre Development Group Inc
Glenelg Shire Council
Golden and Paradise Beach Ratepayers and Residents Association Inc
Golden Plains Shire Council
Goldfields Historical and Arts Society Inc
288,731
2,217
107,000
3,600
303,300
6,000
Goldfields Tourism Inc
30,000
Gracebrook Vineyards
30,000
Grampians Tourism Board Inc
35,500
Great Ocean Road Coast Committee Inc
220,000
Greater Shepparton City Council
706,680
Hamilton Pastoral and Agricultural Society Inc
Hepburn Shire Council
Heyfield Community Resource Centre Inc
10,000
507,000
5,000
Hindmarsh Shire Council
181,000
Horsham Rural City Council
280,300
Indigo Shire Council
470,280
Iron Horse Intermodal Pty Ltd
30,000
J & J Nielsen Pty Ltd
21,000
Organisation
Payment $
Jailhouse Rock Festival Committee Inc
4,500
James Stock Feed and Fertilizer Pty Ltd
30,000
Joel Joel Public Hall
Kinglake Ranges Business Network Inc
Lake Bolac Development Association Inc
Lake Coorong/Lake Lascelles Committee of Management Inc
Lake Goldsmith Steam Preservation Association Inc
Latrobe City Council
Latrobe Valley Women in Business Inc
Lions Club of Corryong
Lions Club of Minyip Inc
Loddon Shire Council
3,600
17,900
4,950
36,000
4,500
459,940
9,000
267,300
7,020
423,500
Lorne Business and Tourism Association Inc
20,000
Macalister Research Farm Co-Operative Ltd
500
Macedon Ranges Shire Council
413,000
Macpherson Smith Rural Foundation Ltd
75,000
Majorca Victoria Park Gardens and Public
107,730
Mansfield Shire Council
429,000
Mildura Aboriginal Corporation Inc
130,000
Mildura Development Corporation Inc
32,000
Mildura Motor Cycle Club Inc
200,000
Mildura Rural City Council
230,800
Mitchell Shire Council
690,900
Moira Shire Council
526,700
Moorabool Shire Council
233,400
Mount Alexander Shire Council
325,500
Mount Buller Arts Association Ltd
18,500
Organisation
Payment $
Mount Elephant Community Management
30,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
55,500
Museums Australia Inc
500
Natimuk Foreshore Committee
58,000
North East Victoria Tourism Board Inc
30,000
Northern Grampians Shire Council
881,450
Our Redeemers Lutheran Church Warracknabeal
4,500
Portland Cable Trams Inc
9,000
Progressing Cobden Inc
9,223
Pyrenees Shire Council
498,000
RA & JL Murphy
120,000
Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation
7,500
Rochester Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc
7,200
Rushworth Public Park Reserve Committee of Management Inc
39,000
Ryan & McNulty Pty Ltd
90,000
Sale Business and Tourism Association Inc
23,760
Sea Lake Off Road Club Inc
6,000
Seaspray Reserves Committee of Management
5,800
Shipwreck Coast Tourism Inc
16,000
Shire of Moyne
175,500
Shire of Strathbogie
393,500
Shire of Towong
460,215
South Gippsland Shire Council
511,454
South Gippsland Tourist Railway Inc
103,500
Southern Farming Systems Ltd
Southern Grampians Shire Council
Star Community Cinema Association Inc
40,500
306,000
31,500
Organisation
Surf Coast Shire
Swan Hill Motorcycle Club Inc
Swan Hill Rural City Council
The Bendigo Trust
Payment $
387,000
5,000
572,854
30,000
The Central Highlands Tourist Railway
130,800
The Centre for Rural Communities Inc
27,000
The Gippsland Business Awards Association Inc
The Gippsland Field Days
5,400
217,500
The Mountain Cattlemens Association of Victoria Inc
65,600
The Noojee and District Historical Society Inc
22,118
Trafalgar East Public Hall Reserve
13,500
UCA - Camperdown
27,000
Valley Park Farm Pty Ltd
40,000
Vegco Pty Ltd
Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia Museum Sub-Branch
150,000
36,000
Walhalla and Mountain Rivers Tourism
5,000
Walhalla Board of Management Incorporated
7,200
Wangaratta Festival of Jazz Inc
22,500
Wangaratta Rural City Council
298,200
Warrnambool City Council
544,500
Wellington Regional Tourism Inc
Wellington Shire Council
4,000
485,500
West Wimmera Health Service
17,500
West Wimmera Shire Council
134,000
Willaura and District Community Development Group
135,000
Wimmera Development Association Inc
Wodonga City Council
75,000
868,000
Organisation
Payment $
Workco Ltd
Yarck Mechanics Institute and Library
Yarriambiack Shire Council
2,800
67,600
344,453
Yea Community Service Group Inc
Yea Racecourse and Recreation Reserve
5,850
70,000
Yinnar and District Community Association Inc
Total
450
26,838,003
REGIONAL COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Organisation
Payment $
Committee for Ballarat Inc
365,000
Committee for Geelong Inc
230,000
Committee for Gippsland Inc
150,000
Community Leadership Loddon Murray Inc
200,000
Greater Shepparton City Council
300,000
Madec Australia
100,000
Moira Shire Council
Murray River Region Tourism Ltd
20,000
3,000
North East Agcare Inc
140,000
Shire of Moyne
122,753
The Community Foundation for Bendigo and Central Victoria Ltd
Wimmera Development Association Inc
Total
3,000
101,250
1,735,003
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AUSTRALIA
Organisation
Payment $
Agribusiness Gippsland Inc
3,750
Agrifood Skills Australia Ltd
20,000
Australia China Business Council
40,000
Avalon Airport Australia Pty Ltd
55,000
Ballarat City Council
69,402
Bass Coast Shire Council
10,000
City of Greater Geelong
40,000
Committee for Gippsland Inc
60,772
Destination Gippsland Ltd
30,000
Gippsland Climate Change Network Inc
20,000
Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation
30,000
Latrobe City Council
300
NE Tracks Local Learning and Employment Network Inc
13,000
Northern Grampians Shire Council
50,000
Southern Farming Systems Ltd
25,600
VicRoads
10,000
Wangaratta Rural City Council
70,000
Warrnambool City Council
63,000
Wellington Shire Council
Wimmera Development Association Inc
Total
3,000
83,000
696,824
RESILIENT COMMUNITY PROGRAM
Organisation
Payment $
Alpine Shire
72,000
Benalla Rural City Council
99,000
Greater Bendigo City Council
61,560
Mansfield Shire Council
44,550
Murrindindi Shire Council
96,300
Pyrenees Shire Council
89,100
Volunteering Victoria Inc
99,000
Total
561,510
SMALL SCALE COMMUNITY AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANTS
Organisation
Great Ocean Road Coast Committee Inc
Payment $
900,000
Lions Club of Kerang Inc
Noweyung Ltd
The Bendigo Trust
5,000
315,000
50,000
Whittlesea Agricultural Society Inc
Wonthaggi Citizens Band Inc
Total
3,000
32,000
1,305,000
SMALL TOWNS DEVELOPMENT FUND
Organisation
Payment $
Mitchell Shire Council
118,561
Parks Victoria
200,000
Wangaratta Rural City Council
Total
50,000
368,561
SUSTAINABLE SMALL TOWNS DEVELOPMENT FUND
Organisation
Payment $
Ararat Rural City Council
115,000
Corangamite Shire Council
150,000
East Gippsland Shire Council
75,000
Greater Shepparton City Council
50,000
Hindmarsh Shire Council
71,500
Mount Alexander Shire Council
81,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
150,000
Shire of Towong
117,000
Swan Hill Rural City Council
150,000
West Wimmera Shire Council
117,250
Total
THE GOOD MOVE CAMPAIGN
1,076,750
Organisation
Payment $
Ararat Rural City Council
10,000
Ballarat City Council
10,000
Bass Coast Shire Council
10,000
Benalla Rural City Council
10,000
Borough of Queenscliffe
10,000
Buloke Shire Council
10,000
Campaspe Shire Council
10,000
City of Greater Geelong
10,000
Colac Otway Shire
10,000
Corangamite Shire Council
10,000
Department of Premier and Cabinet
225,000
East Gippsland Shire Council
10,000
Gannawarra Shire Council
10,000
Glenelg Shire Council
10,000
Golden Plains Shire Council
10,000
Greater Shepparton City Council
10,000
Hepburn Shire Council
10,000
Horsham Rural City Council
10,000
Indigo Shire Council
10,000
Macedon Ranges Shire Council
10,000
Mansfield Shire Council
10,000
Mildura Rural City Council
10,000
Moira Shire Council
10,000
Moorabool Shire Council
10,000
Mount Alexander Shire Council
10,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
10,000
Pyrenees Shire Council
10,000
Shire of Moyne
10,000
Shire of Strathbogie
10,000
Organisation
Payment $
Shire of Towong
10,000
Southern Grampians Shire Council
10,000
Surf Coast Shire
10,000
Swan Hill Rural City Council
20,000
Wangaratta Rural City Council
10,000
Warrnambool City Council
10,000
Wodonga City Council
10,000
Yarriambiack Shire Council
10,000
Total
595,000
TRANSPORT CONNECTIONS PROGRAM
Organisation
Payment $
Ballarat City Council
37,500
Bass Coast Shire Council
37,500
Baw Baw Shire Council
37,500
Benalla Rural City Council
37,500
Casey City Council
37,500
City of Greater Geelong
80,000
City of Whittlesea
37,500
Colac Otway Shire
37,500
Golden Plains Shire Council
37,500
Greater Bendigo City Council
42,500
Greater Shepparton City Council
37,500
Hepburn Shire Council
80,000
Latrobe City Council
80,000
Melton City Council
11,961
Mitchell Shire Council
47,551
Murrindindi Shire Council
37,500
Pyrenees Shire Council
37,500
South Gippsland Shire Council
37,500
Sunassist Volunteer Helpers Inc
42,500
Wellington Shire Council
35,000
Western District Health Service
37,500
Wyndham City Council
37,500
Total
944,512
VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE BUSINESS INVESTMENT FUND
Organisation
CT & SA Donovan
Cathedral Mountain Christian Centre Inc
Strzelecki Engineering Pty Ltd
Total
VICTORIAN BUSINESS FLOOD RECOVERY FUND
Payment $
60,000
100,000
25,000
185,000
Organisation
Payment $
Beechworth Honey Experience Pty Ltd
18,750
Campbells Wines Pty Ltd
56,250
Castle Tourism and Entertainment Pty Ltd
50,000
Cutri Fruit Pty Ltd
100,000
David Eldridge Pty Ltd
110,000
FJ Lenne Pty Ltd
50,000
FK Hensgen & JP Hensgen
25,000
Frewstal Pty Ltd
250,000
GE & DA Kennedy Pty Ltd
67,500
Goldacres Trading Pty Ltd
29,500
Grays Bakery Pty Ltd
50,000
Hazeldene's Chicken Farm Pty Ltd
250,000
Lamattina Beverages Pty Ltd
100,000
Manna Farms
20,000
Mattina Fresh Pty Ltd
40,000
McPherson's Printing Pty Ltd
Modern Specialised Vehicles Pty Ltd
100,000
50,000
Moira Mac's Poultry and Fine Foods Pty Ltd
200,000
Mortlock Hydroponics Pty Ltd
125,000
Olam Orchards Australia Pty Ltd
300,000
PR Adams Pty Ltd
31,000
Paarhammer Pty Ltd
50,000
Seven Fields Pty Ltd
125,000
Southern Stockfeeds (Operations) Pty Ltd
75,000
The Outdoor Education Group
50,000
True Foods Pty Ltd
50,000
Vegco Pty Ltd
120,000
Organisation
Vic Feed Group Pty Ltd
Total
Payment $
50,000
2,543,000
VICTORIAN COMMUNITY SUPPORT GRANTS
Organisation
Payment $
Alpine Shire
20,320
Baw Baw Shire Council
10,000
Corangamite Shire Council
40,000
Gannawarra Shire Council
91,627
Greater Shepparton City Council
27,000
Mansfield Shire Council
17,000
Moorabool Shire Council
26,822
Peninsula Health
23,868
Swan Hill Rural City Council
223,200
Yarra Ranges Shire Council
18,000
Total
497,837
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS PROVINCIAL CADETSHIPS PROGRAM
Organisation
Payment $
Ararat Rural City Council
4,250
Ausrapid Inc
8,000
Australian Eatwell Pty Ltd
3,750
Benalla Health
12,750
Bentrol Pty Ltd
1,000
BM Consulting Engineers
7,500
Buloke Shire Council
12,750
Campaspe Shire Council
3,750
Cardell Accountants Pty Ltd
3,750
Crossco Consulting Pty Ltd
1,000
Crowther & Sadler Pty Ltd
1,000
Dimboola Primary School
3,750
Dunstan Farmers Engineering Pty Ltd
4,250
Ecotecture Design Group
3,750
Gannawarra Shire Council
1,000
Gerard Brandrick & Associates Pty Ltd
1,000
Gippsland Lakes Community Health
3,750
Hofmann Engineering Pty Ltd
1,000
Macedon Ranges Shire Council
Messenger's Pharmacy
Murray Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network Inc
500
3,750
24,500
Murrindindi Shire Council
7,500
Rainbow and District Landcare Group
4,250
Ross Both & Associates Pty Ltd
4,750
Ryan Legal Services Pty Ltd
4,750
Smec Australia Pty Ltd
1,000
South Gippsland Shire Council
4,250
Organisation
Payment $
Stubbs Wallace Pty Ltd
500
Swan Hill District Health
4,250
Trewenack Pty Ltd
3,750
Warrnambool City Council
4,750
Total
146,500
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP AND CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAM
FOR BUSHFIRE AFFECTED COMMUNITIES
Organisation
Payment $
Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal
75,000
Total
75,000
ECONOMIC INFRASTRUCTURE
GRANT ANNOUNCEMENTS
In 2013-14 the following economic infrastructure projects were announced:
Organisation
Project
Announced
amount $
Economic Infrastructure Projects
Burra Foods Pty Ltd
Infant Formula Water Initiatives
1,500,000
Department of Environment and Primary
Industries
Mount Buffalo Chalet Redevelopment
3,270,000
Gippsland Plains Rail Trail Inc
Gippsland Plains Rail Trail - Traralgon- Glengarry
Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water
Corporation
Landsborough Valley Water Supply Pipeline Project
1,950,000
Latrobe City Council
Moe Rail Precinct Revitalisation Project Stage 1
3,000,000
Midfield Meat International Pty Ltd
Midfield Group Capacity Upgrade
1,500,000
Murray Goulburn Co-Operative Co Ltd
Murray Goulburn - Leongatha - Site and Energy Infrastructure
1,500,000
Pactum Dairy Group Pty Ltd
Ultra High Temperature Dairy Milk Processing Plant
Peninsula Searoad Transport Pty Ltd
Searoad Ferries Queenscliff Ferry Terminal Upgrade Project
1,325,000
Phillip Island Nature Park Board of
Management Inc
Nobbies and Summerland Peninsula Tourism Expansion Project
1,200,000
Port of Portland Pty Ltd
Portland Cruise Vessel Terminal
QBF No.1 Pty Ltd
Project Harvest - 35 MW Biomass Power Plant, Carwarp, Victoria
Queenscliff Harbour Pty Ltd
Queenscliff Fisherman's Wharf Precinct Rejuvenation Project
Warrnambool City Council
Warrnambool Regional Aviation Park
1,450,000
Wellington Shire Council
Port of Sale Cultural Hub Project
4,000,000
Wodonga City Council
Wodonga Central Business Area (CBA) Enabling Road
Infrastructure Project
2,100,000
Workco Ltd
Upgrade of Longerenong College Student Residential Facilities
1,110,000
Multinet Gas (Db No 1) Pty Ltd and
Multinet Gas (Db No 2) Pty Ltd
Supply of Natural Gas to Warburton
7,880,000
Vic Gas Distribution Pty Ltd
Supply of Natural Gas to Koo Wee Rup
5,250,000
Barwon Health
St Mary's Hall Redevelopment and Associated Health Support
Facilities
3,000,000
Karingal Inc
Kommercial Factory Development
600,000
250,000
243,053
3,000,000
500,000
Energy for the Regions Projects
Geelong Advancement Fund Projects
650,000
Organisation
Project
Announced
amount $
Latrobe Valley Industry and
Infrastructure Fund Projects
Australian Trailer Manufacturers
Pty Ltd
Relocation and Expansion of Australian Trailer Manufacturers
150,000
Covino Farms Pty Ltd
Covino Farms Processing Expansion Project
Drouin West Timber & Truss Pty Ltd
Drouin West Timber & Truss Future Fit Project
700,000
Gibsons Groundspread Pty Ltd
Gibson Ground Spread Expansion Project
150,000
Gippsland Body Builders Pty Ltd
Darcan Way Expansion And Equipment Upgrade
150,000
Longwarry Food Park Pty Ltd
Portion Pack UHT Line
500,000
Maffra Farmhouse Cheese Pty Ltd
Soft and Club Cheese Production Expansion Project
150,000
Morwell Shopfitters Pty Ltd
MSF Advanced Manufacturing Processes
150,000
Narkoojee Pty Ltd
Narkoojee Winery - Casual Dining Facility
50,000
Rotafab Pty Ltd
Machine Tool Modernisation and Integration
160,000
Safetech Pty Ltd
Safetech Capacity Expansion
150,000
STR Inspection Services Pty Ltd
STR Business Diversification Project - Non Destructive Testing
200,000
Victorian American Imports Pty Ltd
Standing Drive Infrastructure, Purchase, Development and
Production Expansion Project
173,800
1,500,000
GRANT PAYMENTS
In 2013-14 the following payments were made towards economic infrastructure projects:
Organisation
Project
Announced
amount $
Economic Infrastructure Projects
Australian Paper Pty Ltd
Optimised Fibre and Water Efficiency Project
1,500,000
Australian Tartaric Products Pty Ltd
Waste to Energy Biomass Boiler Project
Ballarat City Council
Australian Centre for Democracy at Eureka
Ballarat City Council
Redevelopment of the Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute - Stage 2
200,000
Bass Coast Shire Council
Local Roads to Markets Program - Glen Alvie Road
448,327
Baw Baw Shire Council
Hazel Drive Industrial Estates Transport Linkages
337,500
Bendigo Agricultural Show Society Inc
Development of the Victorian Regional Exhibition Complex - Bendigo
(Stage 2)
150,000
Bruck Textile Technologies Pty Ltd
Process and Wastewater Treatment Innovation for Enhanced
Sustainability of Textile Manufacturing
1,203,475
Burra Foods Pty Ltd
Infant Formula Water Initiatives
1,000,000
Campaspe Shire Council
Port of Echuca Revitalisation - Australia's Great River Port
Experience
1,087,000
Central Gippsland Region Water
Corporation
Labertouche Water Main Replacement Project
360,000
Central Goldfields Shire Council
Carisbrook Renewal Park
900,000
City of Greater Geelong
Geelong Library and Heritage Centre (GLHC)
2,000,000
City of Greater Geelong
Provision of Trunk Infrastructure for the Geelong Ring Road
Employment Precinct, Northern Gateway
1,500,000
Colac Otway Shire
Local Roads to Markets Program - Larpent Road Strengthening
Project (Rd 3)
Deakin University
Deakin University Student Accommodation Project
5,137,500
Deakin University
Regional Community Health Hub (REACH)
3,000,000
East Gippsland Shire Council
Bastion Point Ocean Access Project
1,500,000
Epworth Foundation
Epworth Geelong - Infrastructure to Establish the Site and Open
Access to Future Opportunities
2,000,000
Gippsland Plains Rail Trail Inc
Gippsland Plains Rail Trail - Traralgon- Glengarry
600,000
Glenelg Shire Council
Portland Bay Coastal Infrastructure
850,000
Golden Plains Shire Council
Infrastructure to Expand Intensive Agriculture for Food Security and
Economic Development
452,000
Greater Bendigo City Council
Bendigo Art Gallery Upgrade
Greater Bendigo City Council
O'Keefe Rail Trail Extension - Axedale to Heathcote
500,000
Greater Shepparton City Council
Vaughan Street Precinct Urban Renewal and Redevelopment
Project
700,000
900,000
1,500,000
145,000
2,525,000
Announced
amount $
Organisation
Project
Horsham Rural City Council
Horsham Town Hall Redevelopment
Horsham Rural City Council
Infrastructure Upgrade to Support Development at Longerenong
College
778,480
Loddon Shire Council
Local Roads to Markets Program - Bridgewater Raywood Road
(Rd 3)
176,345
Mansfield Shire Council
Mt Buller Mt Stirling EPIC Mountain Bike Trail Project Element Two
300,000
Mars Australia Pty Ltd
Utilities Efficiency Investment
200,000
Mildura Rural City Council
Mildura Airport Terminal Redevelopment
Murray Goulburn Co-Operative Co Ltd
Murray-Goulburn - Leongatha Water Recycling Project
200,000
Murrindindi Shire Council
Yea Wetlands Environmental Centre
700,000
North East Region Water Corporation
Bright Off River Water Storage
Olam Orchards Australia Pty Ltd
Olam Orchards Almond Processing Facility - Enabling Infrastructure
Projects
467,528
Paper Australia Pty Ltd
Australian Paper Gas Infrastructure
500,000
Parks Victoria
Great Ocean Walk Experience
Peninsula Searoad Transport Pty Ltd
Searoad Ferries Queenscliff Ferry Terminal Upgrade Project
750,000
Port of Portland Pty Ltd
Portland Cruise Vessel Terminal
243,053
Pyrenees Shire Council
Beaufort Economic Growth Project
South Gippsland Shire Council
Great Southern Rail Trail Extension (Foster to Welshpool) Project
200,000
The Sovereign Hill Museums Association
Gold Museum: Building for the Future
(Sovereign Hill 40th Anniversary)
250,000
University of Ballarat
Growing the University of Ballarat Technology Park
300,000
University of Melbourne
International Centre of Excellence in Water Management - Dookie
Infrastructure Upgrade - Phase 1
Victorian Farmers Federation
Cattle Underpass Program (CUPS)
537,093
Victorian Farmers Federation
Stock Over Underpass Road Safety (SOURS) Program - Extension
251,000
Wannon Region Water Corporation
Warrnambool Brine Management Project
107,000
Warrnambool City Council
Access to the Warrnambool Eastern Industrial Precinct
Warrnambool City Council
Warrnambool Intermodal Terminal Upgrade
Wellington Shire Council
West Sale and Bairnsdale Aerodromes
Western Region Water Corporation
Gisborne Recycled Water Scheme
744,130
Wodonga City Council
Logic Fatigue Management and Trailer Interchange Project
738,000
2,000,000
1,000,000
1,100,000
1,500,000
9,520
1,625,000
2,700,000
265,529
1,189,950
Organisation
Project
Wodonga Rendering Pty Ltd
Wodonga Abattoirs - Tri-Generation Plant
Announced
amount $
808,000
Energy for the Regions Projects
Envestra (SA) Ltd
Energy for the Regions - Expansion of Supply Capacity for Mildura
2,722,500
SPI Networks (Gas) Pty Ltd
Supply of Natural Gas to Huntly
2,580,000
Vic Gas Distribution Pty Ltd
Supply of Natural Gas to Koo Wee Rup
525,000
Vic Gas Distribution Pty Ltd
Supply of Natural Gas to Wandong-Heathcote Junction
494,000
Kommercial Factory Development
500,000
Alpine TF Pty Ltd
Alpine Trout Farm Food Processing Plant and Hatchery Project
300,000
Australian Sustainable Hardwoods
Pty Ltd
Australian Sustainable Hardwoods Value Adding / Expansion
200,000
Australian Trailer Manufacturers
Pty Ltd
Relocation and Expansion of Australian Trailer Manufacturers
30,000
DJM Fabrications (Vic) Pty Ltd
Business Sustainability and Growth - Rail Diversification Initiative
160,000
Drouin West Timber & Truss Pty Ltd
Drouin West Timber & Truss Future Fit Project
400,000
GBG Concrete & Construction Pty Ltd
Precast Concrete Panel Facility Expansion
Gippsland Body Builders Pty Ltd
Darcan Way Expansion and Equipment Upgrade
100,000
Lion-Dairy & Drinks Pty Ltd
Lion's Morwell Site External Electricity Line Upgrade
490,000
Maffra Farmhouse Cheese Pty Ltd
Maffra Cheese Company Capacity Expansion Project
112,500
Maffra Farmhouse Cheese Pty Ltd
Soft and Club Cheese Production Expansion Project
60,000
Morwell Shopfitters Pty Ltd
MSF Advanced Manufacturing Processes
90,000
Narkoojee Pty Ltd
Narkoojee Winery - Casual Dining Facility
45,000
Pinegro Products Pty Ltd
New Packaging Business - Pinegro Morwell
180,000
Pureharvest
Pureharvest Warehouse Extensions
150,000
Rotafab Pty Ltd
Machine Tool Modernisation and Integration
144,000
Safetech Pty Ltd
Safetech Capacity Expansion
Sage Computer Support Pty Ltd
Sage Technology Mobilisation and User Interface Unification
100,000
Steeline Gippsland Pty Ltd
Steeline Gippsland Expanding Capability Project
187,500
Geelong Advancement Fund Projects
Karingal Inc
Latrobe Valley Industry and
Infrastructure Fund Projects
37,500
30,000
Announced
amount $
Organisation
Project
STR Inspection Services Pty Ltd
STR Business Diversification Project - Non Destructive Testing
Victorian American Imports Pty Ltd
Standing Drive Infrastructure, Purchase, Development and
Production Expansion Project
110,000
WP Portelli & P Reidy
Elite Pack - Food Tray Production Expansion
125,000
Total
50,000
60,059,429
OUTPUT TARGETS
AND PERFORMANCE
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
AND REGIONAL CITIES
Unit of
Measure
2013-14
Target
2013-14
Actual
Note
Quantity
Economic development, service delivery and community capacity
projects funded
number
140
162
Energy for the Regions Program: number of towns included
number
8
1
Regional infrastructure projects funded
number
100
166
%
100
100
Participant satisfaction with implementation of RDV programs
%
80
80
Putting Locals First Fund projects recommended by Regional
Development Committees approved for funding
%
85
100
Regional councils participating at the regional expo
%
80
100
Coordination and implementation of actions within agreed
performance targets: Transport Connections Initiative
%
100
100
%
75
87.5
Rural councils participating in Rural Councils Victoria (RCV)
network
Quality
Timeliness
Grants acquitted within the timeframe specified in the terms and
conditions of the funding agreement: Local Government
Infrastructure Account
Note
1.
The remaining towns are currently subject to an ongoing tender process.
1
REVENUE AND EXPENSES
Controlled revenue and expenses for the year ended 30 June 2014:
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT
AND REGIONAL CITIES
2014
$’000
2013
$’000
Income from transactions
Output appropriations
59,329
23,440
136,000
123,986
Grants received
7,740
0
Interest
5,016
7,308
Other revenue
3,687
6,476
211,772
161,210
Grants and other payments
(155,191)
(143,177)
Employee-related expenses
(21,796)
(8,753)
(1,084)
(59)
(527)
(130)
(17,164)
(9,792)
(47)
(11)
(195,809)
(161,921)
15,963
(711)
Regional Growth Fund appropriations
Total income from transactions
Expenses from transactions
Depreciation and amortisation
Capital asset charge
Other operating expenses
Interest
Total expenses from transactions
Operating surplus (deficit)
The balance of the Regional Growth Fund Trust at 30 June 2014 was $235,730 million. The funds are held in trust to
meet existing commitments due in future periods.
The financial operations of Regional Development Victoria are included in the Financial Reports of the Department of
State Development, Business and Innovation.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Consolidated financial statements for the Department of State Development, Business and Innovation (DSDBI) and RDV
are contained in the 2013-14 Annual Report published by DSDBI.
This report contains RDV’s Output Targets and Performance and Revenue and Expenses for the year ended 30 June
2014.
COMPLIANCE
Compliance requirements in accordance with the Financial Management Act 1994 and the directions of the Minister for
Finances were managed by DSDBI on behalf of RDV.
Consolidated compliance reporting information for RDV for the 2013-14 financial year is contained in the 2013-14 Annual
Report published by DSDBI.
LEGISLATION
RDV is responsible for the following legislation:
 The Regional Development Victoria Act 2002.
 The Regional Growth Fund Act 2011.
 The Albury Wodonga Agreement (Repeal) Act 2003.
CONTACT INFORMATION
For more information regarding Regional Development Victoria (RDV) contact a representative in your region.
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT VICTORIA OFFICES
Bairnsdale - by appointment only
574 Main Street, Bairnsdale, VIC 3875
T 03 5152 0600
E information.bairnsdale@rdv.vic.gov.au
Ballarat
111 Armstrong Street Nth., Ballarat, VIC 3350
T 03 5327 2800 F 03 5327 2830
E information.ballarat@rdv.vic.gov.au
Bendigo
Level 1, 56-60 King Street, Bendigo, VIC 3550
T 03 4433 8000 F 03 4433 8099
E information.bendigo@rdv.vic.gov.au
Geelong
Level 2, Harrison Place, 237 Ryrie Street,
Geelong, VIC 3220
T 03 5215 6000 F 03 5215 6099
E information.geelong@rdv.vic.gov.au
Heywood - by appointment only
Winda Mara Aboriginal Corporation,
21 Scott Street, Heywood, VIC 3304
T 03 5527 2008
E information.warrnambool@rdv.vic.gov.au
Horsham
Wimmera Business Centre,
62 Darlot Street, Horsham, VIC 3400
T 03 5381 2762 F 03 5381 2514
E information.horsham@rdv.vic.gov.au
Leongatha - by appointment only
Cnr. Young and Bair Street, Leongatha, VIC 3953
T 03 5172 2533
E information.traralgon@rdv.vic.gov.au
Melbourne
Level 11, 121 Exhibition Street,
Melbourne, VIC 3000
T 13 22 15
E rdv@rdv.vic.gov.au
Mildura
131 Langtree Avenue, Mildura, VIC 3500
T 03 5051 2000 F 03 5051 2020
E information.mildura@rdv.vic.gov.au
Robinvale - by appointment only
50 Herbert Street, Robinvale, VIC 3549
T 03 5026 3798
ACCESSIBILITY
E thelma.chilly@rdv.vic.gov.au
Sale - by appointment only
66 Foster Street, Sale, VIC 3850
T 03 5142 0200 F 03 5142 0201
E information.traralgon@rdv.vic.gov.au
Seymour - by appointment only
Level 2, 8-10 Elizabeth Street, Seymour, VIC 3660
T 03 5799 0573
E information.seymour@rdv.vic.gov.au
Shepparton
79a Wyndham Street, Shepparton, VIC 3632
T 03 5895 4100 F 03 5822 2554
E information.shepparton@rdv.vic.gov.au
Swan Hill
C/- Department of Environment and Primary
Industries, 324 Campbell Street,
Swan Hill, VIC 3585
T 03 5036 4823 F 03 5032 9682
E information.swanhill@rdv.vic.gov.au
Traralgon
33 Breed Street, Traralgon, VIC 3844
T 03 5116 7300 F 03 5175 0324
E information.traralgon@rdv.vic.gov.au
Traralgon - Planning and Development
71 Hotham Street, Traralgon, VIC 3844
T 03 5172 2533
E information.traralgon@rdv.vic.gov.au
Wangaratta
Wangaratta Government Centre, 1st Floor,
62 Ovens Street, Wangaratta, VIC 3677
T 03 5722 7101 F 03 5722 7109
E information.wangaratta@rdv.vic.gov.au
Wodonga
111-113 Hume Street, Wodonga, VIC 3689
T 02 6059 0200 F 02 6059 0250
E information.wodonga@rdv.vic.gov.au
Warrnambool
Old Police Station, South West TAFE,
Gilles Street, Warrnambool, VIC 3280
T 03 5561 4135 F 03 5561 3851
E information.warrnambool@rdv.vic.gov.au
If you would like this publication in an accessible format, such as large print or audio, please phone 13 22 15 (voice calls),
or email rdv@rdv.vic.gov.au.
This document is also available in an accessible format on the internet at www.rdv.vic.gov.au.
Published by the Victorian Government
Regional Development Victoria
Annual Report 2013-2014
September 2014
Melbourne Victoria
© Copyright State of Victoria 2014
This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.
ISSN 1448-9341
Contact
Regional Development Victoria
Level 11, 121 Exhibition Street
Melbourne 3000
T 13 22 15
E rdv@rdv.vic.gov.au
www.rdv.vic.gov.au
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