Canberra continues to gain momentum as a regional hub – and this week a whole bunch of red tape was removed to allow the ACT to better engage with the region.

As part of last week’s Council of Australian Government’s meeting, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr and NSW Premier Mike Baird signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to create better transport links between the jurisdictions, and assist Canberra Airport’s growth for inbound tourism and as a regional freight hub.

 

 

Certainly, the Canberra Business Chamber (CBC) is happy with the result.  “The Canberra Region is just that – a region consisting of, not divided into, many towns and centres that are working hard together to improve outcomes for the whole,” CEO, Robyn Hendry said. 

“We have long advocated for measures that build up the whole region because the success of us all relies on us acting as a single entity. Businesses, customers and visitors are being encouraged to see all the region has to offer and look past borders.” 

 

 

The announcement will also better align the development of a new town centre on the ACT’s north-west border. The potential of this area to manage future population growth is recognised by both the ACT and NSW governments and, because of the MoU, Ginninderry may be approved as the first cross-border precinct.

 

 

Projected to be home for at least 12,000 people, the Corkhill family’s Riverview Group has been working on the development for the last decade. Gininderry is expected to be powered by 100% renewables, and there will be environmental conditions to protect the local catchment.