Advocacy Alert: Outlook for 2018

29th January 2018

North Queensland is emerging from a tough period, with 2018 a critical year to continue that momentum.

The most recent PVW Partners’ Business Confidence Index indicated a rise in business confidence across Townsville by 6.1 points; a positive trend for the sixth consecutive quarter. There are currently 84 projects in the construction phase in Townsville North Queensland with a value of over $16.2 M and a number of opportunities available in the medium to long-term. It is also welcomed news that 12,200 people gained either full-time or part-time employment in the region across the past 12 months. This is off the back of over $2B worth of public infrastructure projects now underway and the private investment that has followed suit.

While we are moving ahead, we are not ignorant of the fact that there are a number of people and businesses still hurting. Our region continues to battle several social and economic issues such as crime, and even crocodiles, with these challenges impacting confidence, business and even visitation.

This year, we must all work harder and more collaboratively to secure further public and private investment, with our role at Townsville Enterprise to rally the troops and drive that action.

Our 2018 State and Federal Government Budget Priorities will still largely focus on securing vital funding commitments towards water and energy. In addition, projects seeking funding across destination/tourism development, critical enabling infrastructure, innovation and new industries and Defence will also form a part of our budget submissions, as we, and our partners, work towards establishing Townsville North Queensland as a globally recognised city and region.

Our recovery by and large is happening by design, not by accident or divine intervention. With our community taking up the challenge and by government listening and taking action, we are on the road to recovery, as we begin 2018 with confidence, optimism and our sleeves rolled up.

We look forward to continue working with our members and partners throughout 2018 and ensuring the region maintains an upwards trajectory towards long term prosperity. This year is not about being politically correct; it’s about driving change, and we will continue to be a loud voice for the region in securing the future of Townsville North Queensland.

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