A FORMAL framework designed to identify existing assets and potential growth capacity is being developed for the Limestone Coast.
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) has commissioned leading business advisory firm SED Consulting to undertake dual projects focusing on infrastructure and investment.
The work has been co-funded by the Limestone Coast Local Government Association (LCLGA) and will complement a jointly-funded regional growth plan under development.
Drains, bridges and roads will be among the focus of the audit, which aims to identify deficits and challenges relating to expansion and economic growth.
The audit will also look at power and energy, telecommunications, water and waste management.
Social and community infrastructure such as health services, sport and recreation, art and cultural facilities and emergency services will also be identified, along with “organisational infrastructure” like land development, grant access and leadership capacity.
RDALC chair Peter Gandolfi said the work would highlight any gaps, deficiencies or improvement areas.
“Regional South Australia faces many challenges when it comes to maintaining existing infrastructure and gaining the necessary private or government investment into large-scale improvements or new infrastructure initiatives,” he said.
“Access to up-to-date and consolidated information is required for effective planning prioritisation, particularly for local government and RDALC, but also for investors seeking to develop or expand operations in the region.”
The compiled information will used in a variety of planning contexts and could be accessed by a broad range of stakeholders.
“These could include community groups, local, state and federal government departments and investors and businesses exploring potential opportunities in the region,” Mr Gandolfi said.
He said regional groups and boards focused on areas such as transport, natural resource management, tourism, economic development and climate change adaptation will be able to use the information, which is expected to be released in August.
Meanwhile, a new Limestone Coast investment prospectus also being devised by SED Consulting will target potential investors and key industry sectors by promoting the region’s benefits and opportunities.
The web-based prospectus will align with government investment attraction strategies, including the Limestone Coast Regional Growth Strategy due for release mid-June to ensure the region has a strong presence overseas and across Australia.
LCLGA chair Erika Vickery said the work will provide information to enable parties to invest with confidence.
“We want to highlight strengths and competitive advantages, current and future opportunities with regard to locations, industries and projects, along with partners and important players,” she said.
