Record number of international trade officials visit South East and Tablelands
Regional NSW today welcomed its largest-ever international delegation, part of a NSW Government trade mission to showcase the South East and Tablelands as one of the best places to invest in Australia.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said this regional NSW trade mission, the third in 12 months, is part of a targeted investment strategy that is placing regional NSW front of mind for international and interstate investors.
“The NSW Government is transforming NSW’s attractiveness to interstate and global businesses who are now looking to take advantage of unprecedented trade and investment opportunities in regional NSW,” Mr Barilaro said.
“As a direct result of previous missions, we are currently evaluating investment leads including a $200 million energy business, a multinational freight and logistics business and a software development business that combined could create up to 100 jobs.
“For every $1 billion of foreign direct investment in Australia, 1,000 jobs are created and these are great examples of investment that will bring benefits for regional communities during drought, keeping money flowing through local economies.”
The delegation of 18 consular trade officials from a record 15 countries including Austria, Germany, Japan and the United States will learn about the region’s skilled workforce, innovative businesses and renewable energy and tourism sectors.
Mr Barilaro said trade missions, record infrastructure investment, financial incentives, fast-tracked planning approvals and concierge services have captured the attention of international and interstate investors and sparked interest in investment.
“The NSW Government has been busy building the infrastructure our agriculture, renewables, mining and tourism businesses, and most importantly our communities, need to thrive,” Mr Barilaro said.
“Our record investment includes the $884.9 million from the Regional Growth Fund for more than 1,300 projects and the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund for state-building projects like the Wagga Wagga and Parkes Special Activation Precincts.”
“We are doing everything we can to ensure our regions reach and exceed their potential and achieve our long term vision of a regional NSW where you can raise a family, lead a great lifestyle and build a business or enjoy a great career.”
The three day mission from Cooma to Moruya will include site visits and briefings at leading businesses and organisations including Snowy Hydro Limited, Thredbo Alpine Village and the $44 million Eden Breakwater Wharf development.