The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development is to open a regional office in the NSW city of Moree to assist nearby communities connect to the Inland Rail.
Announcing the new office, Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack said the presence of Departmental staff along the Inland Rail corridor would allow local people to talk to Government face-to-face about the opportunities and potential benefits Inland Rail and other activities offered.
“It’s vital that our Public Service understands and serves the public and what better way to do this than employ local people to work with and among local communities,” Mr McCormack said.
“Regional officers play a vital role in guiding and connecting local communities and industry to information, support networks, local procurement and employment opportunities.”
He said that in addition to supporting local communities and businesses, the Moree office would play an integral part in supporting the Government’s $44 million 2019-20 Budget initiative to develop strategic business cases for the Inland Rail Interface Improvement Program.
“This program will maximise connections to the national freight rail network – integrating regional lines and connecting local communities to the long-term benefits that flow from Inland Rail,” Mr McCormack said.
“The Moree office will complement the regional engagement activities of other offices already established by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development in Toowoomba, Dubbo and Wodonga.”
Minister for Finance, Senator Mathias Cormann said large-scale infrastructure investment was a catalyst for economic growth through job creation and industry and regional development.
“Connecting regional communities to domestic and international markets will ensure our producers and manufacturers remain globally competitive,” Senator Cormann said.
