Annual Business Plan

Transcription

1 Annual Business Plan Page 1

2 Table of Contents 1. SUMMARY OF KEY ACHIEVEMENTS AND LEARNINGS FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR OVERVIEW OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND STAFF OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS FOR THE COMING YEAR ACTIVITIES AND KEY PRIORITIES FOR THE COMING YEAR OUTCOMES AND KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS STRATEGIC CONTEXT STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION MARKETING STRATEGY RISK MANAGEMENT WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY Page 2

3 1. SUMMARY OF KEY ACHIEVEMENTS AND LEARNINGS FROM THE PREVIOUS YEAR The 2014/2015 has been a productive year for the staff at Regional Development Australia (RDA) Pilbara and several reports, projects and events were successfully undertaken. RDA Pilbara continues to work in collaboration with local, state and federal government departments as well as the not for profit sector and Indigenous corporations to achieve economic diversification and social wellbeing across the region. West Pilbara Communities for Children The WPC4C Initiative is funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services and has been allocated $5.1 million from The objectives of the WPC4C Initiative are to improve the health and wellbeing of families and the development of young children from birth through to 12 years of age. RDA Pilbara, as facilitating partner for the WPC4C Initiative, funds local community partners to deliver programmes that are aimed at creating child-friendly communities, healthy young families, supporting family and parents, early learning and school transition and engagement. The WPC4C Initiative has a strong focus on evidence-based programmes and supports early intervention and prevention service delivery for vulnerable and at-risk children. The key focus of the initiative is to provide a holistic approach to service delivery to families, particularly those who are vulnerable, disadvantaged or live in disadvantaged communities, to improve family functioning and safety, and child wellbeing and development. Based on feedback from local service providers and the West Pilbara Communities for Children s (WPC4C) community partners, the following families are considered most at risk of poor outcomes: Isolated families; Indigenous families and children; young parents; parents and families experiencing mental health issues/substance abuse issues; families lacking social and recreational support networks; families living on low incomes; families impacted by disabilities; and CaLD families. Key and Emerging Needs of the West Pilbara The Map & Gap Analysis Report (2012) acknowledged that there has been a high level of investment in the Pilbara, including in the education and care sector, from the government, the private sector and philanthropic organisations. However, it is important to note that the unprecedented growth in population has necessitated this high level of investment. At the present time, the emerging community needs and regional overview suggests that further investment is necessary. The following emerging community needs have been derived from direct consultations with local non-government organisations (including youth services, family support and providers of child care), parents and community members in the City of Karratha and the Shire of Ashburton: Page 3

4 Limited transition to school programmes. This is particularly the case for remote Indigenous communities and Indigenous children in town centres. Limited support programmes for parents to improve family wellbeing. For instance, programmes on personal development, budgeting, parenting, importance of children s education, drug and alcohol misuse, domestic violence, protective behaviours and impact of alcohol during pregnancy. Limited services for CaLD families and families caring for a child with a disability. These include specialised playgroups and school readiness programmes. Difficulties accessing transport. Limited public transport; limited services to assist individuals in gaining and retaining a driver s license particularly for Indigenous people. Limited affordable access to correct child restraints and resources on installing them. Limited initiatives that respond to increasing incidences of suicide in children. This is particularly the case in Indigenous Communities across the West Pilbara. Limited mental health services in Onslow. Low levels of community trust and motivation. Disadvantaged families express a lack of trust in services, which they believe to be all talk and no action. Negative attitudes, coupled with a lack of motivation, prevent some families from committing to change. Feedback from stakeholders suggests that this lack of motivation relates to a perceived lack of consultation and the provision of irrelevant services. Pilbara Regional Children s Services Plan The Pilbara Regional Children s Services Plan has been developed through the Regional Community Child Care Development Fund administered by the Department of Local Government and Communities and funded through the State Government s Royalties for Regions programme. RDA Pilbara has undertaken extensive consultation in conjunction with an in-depth desk-top analysis of services provided in the region for children and their families, which has resulted in the development of the Regional Children s Services Plan (the Plan). An adequate and sustainable children s services sector is paramount to the success of the Pilbara Cities Vision, as the provision of quality children s services is one of the first factors many families consider when deciding to move to the region. Children s services have an integral role in building liveable and safe communities, and it is widely acknowledged that they make a significant contribution to the social and economic wellbeing of communities. Page 4

5 The Plan identified five key strategic recommendation areas for implementation across the Pilbara. These implementation recommendations should ultimately have a positive impact on the outcomes of children s services across the region. 1. Provision of Professional Development and Mentoring Opportunities; 2. Develop an Integrated Early Years Network; 3. Develop a Pool of Qualified Educators to provide Respite Education and Care; 4. Increased Children s Services, including Education and Care Delivery in Indigenous Communities; and 5. Improve Literacy and Numeracy rates across the Pilbara. In collaboration and consultation with local and state government, children s services and key stakeholders throughout the Pilbara, implementation of the approved five recommendations will take place in the remainder of 2015 and into early Ten Year Community Plan for the Non-Government Organisations Sector in the Pilbara RDA Pilbara and the Pilbara Development Commission are working in partnership to support the Non-Government Organisations (NGO) sector deliver high level, equitable social and human services to meet the demand of a rapidly growing population in the Pilbara. In 2012 RDA Pilbara and the Pilbara Development Commission engaged a consultant to develop the Non-Government Organisations (NGO) Map and Gap Analysis Report to provide an accurate and evidenced based assessment of the position of the NGO sector across the Pilbara and identify how it could be supported accordingly. One of the key recommendations of the Report was the development of a strategic framework to inform and guide a coordinated approach to the delivery of NGO services and facilities across the Pilbara as a critical requirement for planning for the increased demand in services and to support a sustainable future for the sector in the region. RDA Pilbara has been successful in gaining funding through Lotterywest and with the funding from the Pilbara Development Commission the project will be completed by the end of March Comparative Analysis of Insurance and Banking Conditions in the Pilbara RDA Pilbara has commissioned an independent study to be undertaken to analyse trends in banking and insurance services in the Pilbara with comparisons to be made with other regional centres in Australia, including the impact of negative developments on both households and businesses. Page 5

6 The aim of the study is to: Gain an understanding of how insurance organisations and banks offer and price their products. Assess the likely impact of any differential pricing on businesses and communities in the Pilbara. Compare banking and insurance services in the Pilbara with other selected regional towns in Australia and with Perth. The outcome of the study will be an analysis of the prevailing conditions applied by insurers and banks to borrowers who are resident in the Pilbara, and how these conditions compare to; a) the Perth benchmark, and b) other selected locations in Australia. A task force to look at high insurance costs in cyclone areas in Northern Australia was announced by the Federal Government in April The RDA Pilbara Study will be used to inform this task force. North West Investment Portfolio RDA Pilbara is leading the development of the North West Investment Portfolio. This project has come about through the intention to review the 2012 Pilbara Plan and Investment Prospectus. The opportunity to incorporate the Kimberley and the Mid- West Gascoyne has extended the scope of the document. RDA Kimberley, the Kimberley Development Commission, the Pilbara Development Commission, RDA Mid- West Gascoyne, the Mid-West Development Commission, Gascoyne Development Commission, Pilbara Regional Council and Australia China Business Council Western Australia will all partner in this North West project. The project has two objectives: 1. To undertake a review and update of the Infrastructure studies and draw upon regional development plans in order to identify major future infrastructural and utility projects that are essential to the development of the three regions. 2. To undertake an in-depth identification, scoping and profiling of key private sector-led project opportunities across major productive sectors that have the potential to attract new investment and economic diversification into the three regions. The overall aim is to produce a unique document that can be used to inform and attract investment from key stakeholders in the public and private sectors from across Australia and potentially overseas. These would include institutional investors such as Superannuation Funds, venture capital and private equity investors. Such investments would aim to be both strategic in importance and enhance economic diversification. Page 6

7 Northern Regional Development Australia Alliance Eight RDA Boards located in northern Australia have been meeting to explore common interests and issues and to prioritise the most significant policy and investment opportunities for northern development. The RDAs included are: Northern Territory Kimberley Pilbara Midwest/Gascoyne Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday Fitzroy and Central West Townsville and North West, and Far North Queensland and Torres Strait. The Alliance has been formed to identify the barriers and opportunities to the development of Northern Australia, and provide constructive input to the White Paper developed by the Commonwealth government. Between the eight RDAs the coverage is the entire area of the coalition s 2030 Vision for Northern Australia, and the White Paper. The region contributes $96 billion to the national total of exports via seaports. With more than 636 million tonnes exported from seaports alone from Northern Australia, the region accounts for 74% of the national total of exports by sea. This alone underlines that Northern Australia is an important and growing part of the nation and is at the forefront of our relations with the dynamic Asian and Pacific region. The issues identified include energy, transport and water to meet the Commonwealth s vision for Northern Australia. In addition it was recognised that red tape reduction and regulatory reform would be needed to assist public investment, and to attract private sector investment. The Alliance recommends that while the challenges are huge in addition to other competing demands across Australia, a number of existing opportunities are mature enablers for growth. In addition to mining, tourism and primary production, Northern Australia has much to offer in terms of increasing and viable agriculture, tropical knowledge and health and tertiary expertise. The frontier spirit of Northern Australia also ensures anything the region does, is done with everybody s commitment and energy. The Northern Alliance of RDA Committees has called for a long term united approach to the development of Northern Australia and bipartisan leadership on the issue by all governments. Page 7

8 Australian China Business Council (ACBC) RDA Pilbara has taken a lead role in reinvigorating the ACBC Pilbara Committee. ACBC WA and the Pilbara Committee will work collaboratively to recognise the importance of relationship building between the Pilbara and China and to leverage commercial relationships in order to further social and economic development and investment in the Pilbara. It is intended that this Committee will inform and promote the North West Investment Portfolio. Western Australia s relationship with China has been thriving on a trade and investment relationship built upon the export of minerals, energy, agricultural goods and education services and Chinese investment in the Western Australian resources sector. Submissions 2014/2015 Defence Issues Paper 2014 Northern Australia Alliance Green Paper Commonwealth Marines Reserve Review Pilbara Development Commission Regional Investment Blueprint Inquiry into Commonwealth Indigenous Advancement Strategy Tendering Process WA RDA Newsletter The WA RDA Network News is a collaborative initiative between all nine of the RDA Committee s in Western Australia and RDA Northern Territory. The WA RDA Network News demonstrates how individual RDA committees are tailoring initiatives to target regionally significant issues and opportunities. It also highlights the synergies between the different regions and the obvious opportunities for partnerships and collaboration. Presentations in 2014/2015 Leadership WA Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce and Industry Business Breakfast Series International Women s Mining Conference Page 8

9 Karratha Districts Chamber of Commerce and Industry Partnership Economic Forum RDA Pilbara partnered with the Karratha Districts Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KDCCI) to deliver Karratha Coming of Age Economic Forum in November This was a collaboration between KDCCI, RDA Pilbara, Pilbara Development Commission, St Luke s College, Rio Tinto, North West Shelf Venture, City of Karratha, Red Dog Relay, Finbar, Landcorp, Horizon Power, First National Real Estate, ECM and Cherratta Lodge. The Forum showcased the industries and developments currently influencing the Pilbara region and celebrates the metamorphosis from mining town to a vibrant, regional Australian city. Women s Business Luncheon and Workshops RDA Pilbara is a Gold sponsor of the Pilbara Women s Network Women in Business Luncheon. These luncheons are provided by the Small Business Centre West Pilbara and the KDCCI. The Pilbara Women s Network luncheon aims to support and empower women who are working in the Pilbara through a series of valuable networking and professional development events. Two luncheons held in November 2014 and May 2015 were sold out with over 100 business women and representatives attending, travelling as far as Port Hedland. Newcomers WA RDA Pilbara in partnership with the Pilbara Regional Council managed a stall in November 2014 at the Newcomers Australia event. These events are a part of Newcomers Australia, a dedicated online resource exclusively connecting Temporary Foreign Workers (457 Visa Holders and Working Holiday Makers) and International Students with providers of employment, education, immigration and arrival/settlement services onshore in Australia. In addition to the website, the Newcomers Australia events are one of a kind events that target the Employment, Education, Visa and Settlement needs of both Australia's newly arrived and settled migrants, as well as temporary international workers, foreign students and the corporate expat community. The Newcomers Australia events connect participants with knowledgeable experts able to provide information and services for visas, employment opportunities, education options and a host of other settlement services all under one roof. Page 9

10 Collaborative Forums: Woodside Community Liaison Group Pilbara Development Commission Tourism Steering Committee City of Karratha Tourism Advisory Group Pilbara Development Commission, Pilbara Regional Council and RDA Pilbara Collaboration Forum WA RDA s Collaboration Meetings Regional Children s Services Plan Monthly Forum West Pilbara Communities for Children Committee Early Years Group Meetings in Tom Price and Karratha RDA Pilbara Consultation Strategy Reviewed RDA Pilbara conducted a review of the Consultation Strategy to ensure effective, meaningful and consistency that adheres to the following principles making it relevant, timely, transparent, inclusive, community-focused, interactive and deliberative, flexible and making it matter. Objectives for RDA Pilbara were identified as: To seek information and input into strategies or plans that may affect the community; To ensure the community has the opportunity for meaningful input and involvement in decision making; To ensure RDA Pilbara has enough information including community views, to make decisions ; and To ensure legislative requirements are met. Community consultation is just one of a number of community engagement tools adopted by RDA Pilbara Committee members to help them build capacity and make well informed decisions with a commitment to providing the views of the public. Consultation is not merely providing information, reaching an agreement or consensus, negotiation, voting on an issue where majority wins or simply promoting a decision that is already made. The level of consultation varies depending on the nature of the issue or strategy. Support for National Stronger Regions Fund The National Stronger Regions Fund (NSRF) is an Australian Government initiative to boost social and economic development in Australia s regions by funding priority infrastructure projects in local communities. The Australian Government has committed $1 billion to the fund over five years commencing from Page 10

11 RDA Pilbara continues to help implement the Australian Government s NSRF by: assisting applicants to identify infrastructure projects which contribute to long term economic growth and have been identified as priorities; bringing key eligible parties together including those who may provide a financial contribution to the project, to develop an application for an infrastructure project; and/or working with applicants to prepare eligible applications, supporting documents and evidence, which will support their claims against the assessment criteria. Pilbara Workforce Development Plan RDA Pilbara works collaboratively with the Pilbara Workforce Development Alliance to implement the Pilbara Workforce Development Plan released in July Now in its third year, significant progress has been made to implement the priority actions identified by local stakeholders contained within the Plan. During this period, all priority actions have either commenced, been considered/integrated into government operations or have been completed. The Alliance anticipates that a major focus for will be the strategic alignment to the Pilbara Regional Investment Blueprint, which once published will outline the Pilbara s long term economic growth and development aspirations. The Alliance will continue to monitor the progress of the workforce strategies included in the Pilbara Workforce Development Plan , and review and modify these as necessary to support the Blueprint. Pilbara Enterprise Zone RDA Pilbara is working closely with the Pilbara Regional Council and key stakeholders to create a world-class investment destination: the Pilbara Enterprise Zone(PEZ). The PEZ aims to create a long-term competitive environment for domestic and international investments, and to strengthen the capacity of the entire Pilbara region. This is consistent with the Federal Government s vision for the development of Northern Australia, and central to the continuing development of the State of Western Australia. Designated Area Migration Agreement RDA Pilbara is supporting the Pilbara Regional Council to create a Designated Area Migration Agreement (DAMA) for the Pilbara region. The Agreement establishes the process for sponsorship of workers from outside Australia into regional areas. The DAMA will cover labour categories including community and personal service workers, clerical and administrative workers, sales workers and labourers. This agreement once approved with the Federal Government will address workforce shortages during peak periods for the Pilbara region. Page 11

12 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) RDA Pilbara has signed MOUs with strategic organisations across the Pilbara to confirm its commitment to work collaboratively and in partnership to ensure the social and economic wellbeing of the region. Key organisations that have agreed to work together with RDA Pilbara and have signed MOUs include: Pilbara Development Commission Pilbara Regional Council Pilbara Institute Yaandina Family Centre Oz Help Foundation The Nintirri Centre Inc WA RDAs Northern RDA Alliance Inclusion WA Act Belong Commit V Swans Incorporated City of Karratha Page 12

13 2. OVERVIEW OF COMMITTEE MEMBERS AND STAFF Committee Members: Name Position Location Term Expiry Ms Fiona White-Hartig Chair Wickham 31/12/2017 Ms Lynnette Craigie Deputy Chair Newman 31/12/2017 Ms Jacqueline Minney Committee Member Karratha 28/02/2018 Mr Owen Hightower Committee Member Karratha 28/02/2018 Ms Veronica Rodenburg Committee Member Roebourne 28/02/2018 Ms Pennoschea Little Committee Member Hedland 28/02/2018 Mr Adam Handley Committee Member Perth 28/02/2018 Mr David Yakas Committee Member Dampier 28/02/2018 Ms Kerry White Committee Member Onslow 28/02/2018 Mr Damien Burton Committee Member Perth 28/02/2018 Ms Maggie Lewis Committee Member Newman 28/02/2018 Chair Fiona White-Hartig Ms Fiona White-Hartig has resided in the City of Karratha in the Pilbara region of Western Australia for the past 12 years. Five of those years were spent in Roebourne and the past seven in Wickham. Fiona is currently Chair of RDA Pilbara, Deputy Chair of Pilbara Regional Council, Councillor of City of Karratha, President of the Wickham Community Association, Chair of the Karratha Emergency Relief Organisation, President of Wickham Youth Group, President of the Karratha branch of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and a Roebourne Advisory Councillor, Board Member of the Pilbara Development Commission, Chair of the Pilbara Regional Road Group and Board member on both the Roebourne and Karratha Visitor Centres. Fiona has trained and worked extensively in politics, with youth, disability services and Indigenous engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Philosophy and Sociology from Murdoch University (1992) and her previous experience includes appointments with ACT Youth Justice, ACT Disability Services, Family and Children's Services, Karratha Youth Housing Project, Department of Premier and Cabinet and in the Not for Profit Sector. Page 13

14 Deputy Chair Lynnette Craigie Ms Lynnette (Lynne) Craigie is a long-time resident of the East Pilbara who has played an active role in the development and growth across the entire Pilbara. Lynne is currently Deputy Chair of RDA Pilbara, President of the Shire of East Pilbara, Chairperson of Pilbara Regional Council, Deputy President for the Western Australian Local Government Authority, Director of Horizon Power, Board Member of Australian Local Government Association, Chair of Newman Women s Shelter, Board Member EPIS (Home and Community Care) Newman and Board Member of Building Management Committee Newman. In her role on the various Boards, Lynne is able to advocate and promote RDA Pilbara and it is in this role that Lynne has heightened awareness of RDA initiatives and studies. Lynne in her role as Deputy Chair has worked well with the Chair and together they have promoted RDA Pilbara at a local and state government level and secured funding to support Regional Development Australia activities. Back Row: Front Row: Absent: Owen Hightower, Maggie Lewis, Veronica Rodenburg, Damien Burton, David Yakas Lynnette Craigie, Kerry White, Pennoschea Little, Fiona White-Hartig Adam Handley, Jacqueline Minney RDA Pilbara Committee Meetings Due to the vast distance of the Pilbara region, the Committee meet in Perth bimonthly. Additional meetings may be arranged to cater for discussions on important issues as they arise. The Annual General Meeting is scheduled for October each year. Meetings are budgeted for in each year s financial forecasts. Page 14

15 RDA Pilbara Staff: Chief Executive Officer - Diane Pentz Ms Diane Pentz has been CEO since December 2010 and has developed an extensive knowledge of the Pilbara and its vision for future growth and economic diversification. Diane has developed sound relationships with local, state and community organisations not only in the Pilbara but across Western Australia and beyond. Diane has over 27 years experience as a Town Planner and Policy Analyst and her focus is on visioning and achieving community and economic development through collaboration and consultation. Diane is passionate about establishing sustainable communities through building capacity and empowering local leaders to ensure local solutions to local issues. Diane and the team at RDA Pilbara constantly scan the environment to establish gaps and opportunities that can be filled to create a liveable environment for all communities within the Pilbara. Diane Pentz CEO Anita Watts Executive Assistant Georgia Evans Senior Programme Officer WPC4C Terri Sawyer- Waddington Senior Finance Officer Debbie Allcott Regional Development Officer Regional Development Australia Pilbara office is located at Welcome Lotteries House Unit 5, 7 Morse Court Karratha WA 6714 Phone: Fax: Page 15

16 3. OPERATIONAL PARAMETERS FOR THE COMING YEAR Over and above the funding that RDA Pilbara has received from the Federal Government Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, several other sources of funding have been secured. RDA Pilbara has two significant third party contracts. West Pilbara Communities for Children Initiative funded by Department of Social Services and the Pilbara Regional Children Services Plan funded by Department of Local Government and Communities. Project Name: Funding Body: Detail: West Pilbara Communities for Children initiative Department of Social Services (DSS) RDA Pilbara, as facilitating partner for the WPC4C Initiative, funds local community partners to deliver programmes that are aimed at creating child-friendly communities, healthy young families, supporting family and parents, early learning and school transition and engagement. Timeline: 1 st July th June 2019 Amount of Funding: Project Name: Funding Body: Detail $6,380, (inc GST ) Implementation of the Pilbara Regional Children s Services Plan Department of Local Government and Communities RDA Pilbara has developed an implementation plan to support the findings in the Pilbara Regional Children s Services Plan. These initiatives and requirements will be delivered over the next 11 months. Through extensive consultation a number of overarching trends and issues are prevalent across the Pilbara region which impact on the outcomes of children s services have been identified. These include the following: 1. Limited professional development opportunities 2. Lack of an integrated early years network 3. Lack of respite - education and care 4. Limited education and care service delivery in Indigenous communities 5. Low literacy and numeracy rates across the Pilbara Timeline June 2015 to April 2016 Funding: $90,000 Page 16

17 Project Name: Project Summary Timeline Outcomes Undertake environmental scan to support an advocating role in the Pilbara Develop submissions to support policy review in Western Australia. Two Per Year To provide input and recommendations to support and inform decision making where appropriate. Project Name: Project Summary Timeline Partners Outcomes RDA Pilbara Website and Newsletters Raise awareness of Federal Government funding initiatives for community development through the RDA Pilbara website and monthly newsletters. Ongoing Nil RDA Pilbara website updated monthly and Newsletter produced bimonthly. Project Name: Detail Partners Ten Year Community Plan for the Non-Government Organisations Sector for the Pilbara RDA Pilbara will develop a Ten Year Community Plan in collaboration with Pilbara Development Commission and the Resource Sector. RDA Pilbara has sourced further funding from Lotterywest. Pilbara Development Commission & Lotterywest Timeline End of March 2016 Funding $120,000 Outcomes To provide strategic direction for the NGO sector over the next ten years and to provide guidance around service delivery to alleviate duplication and gaps. Page 17

18 Project Name: Detail Timeline Partners Outcomes Information Portal of Completed Regional Studies RDA Pilbara in collaboration with Pilbara Regional Council has developed and continues to maintain an information portal that showcases all studies undertaken with a focus on the Pilbara. This information portal is updated monthly. Ongoing RDA Pilbara & Pilbara Regional Council To provide an information/library portal for stakeholders to access all studies undertaken in the Pilbara as required. Project Name: Detail Partnership Funding Outcomes Pilbara Tourism Product Development Plan RDA Pilbara will work in partnership with Pilbara Regional Council, the Pilbara Development Commission, Tourism WA, North West Tourism and Department of Parks and Wildlife in the implementation of the Pilbara Tourism Product Development Plan. RDA Pilbara, Pilbara Regional Council, Pilbara Development Commission, North West Tourism, WA Tourism and Department of Parks and Wildlife. Funding in Kind The Pilbara Tourism Product Development Plan will provide a strong framework for the long-term development of the tourism industry in the region. Various priority regional initiatives will contribute to the achievement of the vision in the short-term and support the long-term growth of tourism during the implementation of the plan. Project Name: Detail Partnership Funding Australia China Business Council Pilbara Committee RDA Pilbara will take a lead role in the reinvigoration of the Pilbara ACBC Committee with the purpose of recognising the importance of relationship building between the Pilbara and China and to leverage that relationship commercially in order to further social and economic development and investment in the Pilbara. Lead agencies RDA Pilbara, Pilbara Development Commission, Pilbara Regional Council. To be confirmed Outcomes Consulate General Regional Tour East x West Forum in China ITC Web based options for filtering projects Governance Structure Future strategic planning Page 18

19 Project Name: Detail Comparative Analysis of Insurance and Banking Conditions in the Pilbara An independent study of insurance and mortgage services and costs for residents and business owners in the Pilbara has been prepared between March and May 2015 with the following objectives: Gain an understanding of how insurance organisations and banks offer and price their products. Assess the likely impact of any differential pricing on businesses and communities in the Pilbara. Compare banking and insurance services in the Pilbara with other selected regional towns in Australia and with Perth. Partnership RDA Pilbara has undertaken this piece of work through selfgenerated funds. Funding $25,500 Outcomes An independent study of insurance and mortgage issues facing residents and business owners in the Pilbara. The aim is to investigate the price and availability of insurance and insurers. Also RDA Pilbara intends to gain an understanding of lending criteria for the Pilbara. The key information will be as follows: Insurance costs and the ability to obtain insurance in the Pilbara Insurance companies who are willing to provide cover to individuals and businesses located in the Pilbara Bank lending - first home buyers deposit, and mortgage conditions Bank lending - commercial loans and asset requirements Are these lending conditions/costs based on postcodes or how are they evaluated? Bank lending how do mortgage insurance prices vary? Compare banking organisations and brokers for both banking and insurance products and costs Compare pricing offerings and product range with other locations in Australia The project will deliver a comparative understanding of how insurance and banks offer and price their products relative to the specific market. Page 19

20 Project Name: Review the Cost of Doing Business Report 2015 Detail Partnership A study was commissioned by RDA Pilbara in early 2013 and an executive update undertaken in 2014 to look at the cost of doing business in the Pilbara. The focus was on those costs incurred by running a business/ngo in the Pilbara and how they compared to Perth as the benchmark. The review of the Cost of Doing Business in the Pilbara will involve an executive update of the 2014 Business Price Index to establish what significant changes have occurred over the period of the last year. This update will focus on the main costs affecting businesses and NGOs in the Pilbara. The study will help businesses and NGOs to better understand the cost structure of the Pilbara, and the resultant impact on their operations. It would also provide trend analysis and short-term forecasts to assist in planning. RDA Pilbara will undertake this study through self-generated funds. Funding $18,400 Outcomes The report will provide data and analysis including on: Regional Price Indexes (RPI) (household commodities) Resident Household Expenditure Forecasts Resource Sector Cash Costs Employment and Labour Costs Accommodation and Housing Costs Commercial and Industrial Rent Prices Utility Costs water, electricity, and gas Transport Costs Construction Costs Commodity Price Forecasts Business Cost Multipliers The report will also provide recommendations on cost mitigation strategies and observations on productivity issues. Page 20

21 Project Name: Detail North West Investment Portfolio The project has two objectives: 1. To undertake a review and update of the Infrastructure studies and draw upon regional development plans in order to identify major future infrastructural and utility projects that are essential to the development of the three regions. 2. To undertake an in-depth identification, scoping and profiling of key private sector-led project opportunities across major productive sectors that have the potential to attract new investment and economic diversification into the four regions. Partnership RDA Pilbara, RDA Kimberley, RDA Mid-West Gascoyne, Pilbara Development Commission, Kimberley Development Commission, Mid-West Development Commission, Gascoyne Development Commission, Pilbara Regional Council, ACBC WA Funding $132,000 Outcomes The overall aim is to produce a unique document that can be used to inform and attract investment from key stakeholders in the public and private sectors from across Australia and potentially from overseas. These would include institutional investors such as Superannuation Funds, venture capital and private equity investors. Such investments would aim to be both strategic in importance and enhance economic diversification. Project Name: Detail Partnership Funding Outcomes City of Karratha Tourism Strategy RDA Pilbara offers an advocacy role to support the development of tourism within the City of Karratha to support economic diversification. RDA Pilbara, City of Karratha, Dept of Parks and Wildlife, KDCCI, PDC, PRC, Australia North West Tourism, Pilbara Small Business Centre, Ngurrangga Tours, Karratha Visitors Centre, Roebourne Visitors Centre, Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation, NYFL, In kind To develop a comprehensive plan to rollout tourism initiatives and infrastructure to support the development of the tourism sector in the City of Karratha. Page 21

22 4. ACTIVITIES AND KEY PRIORITIES FOR THE COMING YEAR Statement of RDA Pilbara Priorities RDA Pilbara priorities have a regional impact and aspect. The priorities have been identified by RDA Pilbara in collaboration with key stakeholders, local government, state agencies, industry and community. These priorities are the drivers for RDA s actions and strategies that form the foundation of work plans and collaborations in delivering outcomes for the Pilbara. The development of the North West Investment Portfolio 2015, Review of the Cost of Doing business in the Pilbara 2015, Ten Year Community Plan for the Service Delivery sector, Comparative Analysis of Insurance and Banking Practices in the Pilbara and the reinvigoration of the ACBC Pilbara Committee all attribute to economic diversification and social wellbeing to support sustainability in the Pilbara. However, it is noted that there are several projects being planned to enhance the wellbeing of remote communities within the Pilbara and whilst these projects may not be of regional significance, RDA Pilbara recognises the importance of these projects to support the sustainable and place based solution for isolated and remote communities. RDA Pilbara will work in collaboration with its strategic partners to deliver tangible outcomes associated with each priority area. RDA Pilbara will achieve this through providing evidence to support robust decision making, advocacy and leadership to promote sustainable and measurable outcomes that support the vision and targets set for the Pilbara. The regional priorities indicated below have been identified and align with the aspirations of state, local government and the non-government organisation sectors as well as community aspirations. RDA Pilbara will contribute towards the realisation of these priorities through actions, advocacy and leadership as appropriate. Five Key Priorities: 1. Attracting and facilitating infrastructure investment in the Pilbara 2. Promoting economic diversification and capitalising on the Pilbara s competitive advantage 3. Supporting priority sector investment projects that meet the aspirations of longevity and sustainability 4. Supporting the community sector to promote liveability through place based solutions for local communities 5. Providing advocacy to support sustainable practices and development across the Pilbara. Looking forward RDA Pilbara will work in partnership with the Pilbara Regional Council on several initiatives including Designated Area Migration Agreement, Investment Portal, Online Information Portal, Pilbara Enterprise Zone, roll out of key tourism infrastructure and the delivery of the East X West Forum to promote investment opportunities for Chinese investment in the Pilbara. Page 22

23 RDA Pilbara will continue to support the Pilbara Development Commission to finalise the Pilbara Regional Investment Blueprint. RDA Pilbara will work in collaboration with all WA and NT RDAs to create cross regional partnerships. RDA Pilbara will work in collaboration with the resource sector to ensure appropriate community investment within the region. Close collaboration with the Indigenous organisations is also essential to inform planning and focus for the region. RDA Pilbara will collaboratively deliver events and promote business development across the Pilbara. RDA Pilbara constantly seeks opportunities to work in collaboration and in partnership with all key stakeholders to effect sustainable place based solutions for all communities across the Pilbara. RDA charter, regional plan and government priorities This Business Plan and the RDA Pilbara Regional Plan are the foundation documents which underpin the work of the RDA Pilbara committee. RDA Pilbara uses these documents to guide their work in developing and strengthening Pilbara communities with the aim of achieving long-term sustainability of the region. RDA Pilbara will support the RDA Charter by working with all sectors of the community, including women, young people, Indigenous Australians and people from a variety of cultural backgrounds. A key focus of RDA Pilbara will be on the economic, social and environmental issues affecting regional communities. In accordance with the RDA Charter, RDA Pilbara, in consultation with regional communities, businesses, not-for-profit organisations and all levels of government, will articulate local and regional priorities, identify and align resources, engage stakeholders and promote solutions. In doing this, RDA Pilbara will be working to address the government priorities for the Pilbara and supporting the growth and development of communities across the region. RDA Pilbara will support, promote and disseminate information on government policy initiatives for the benefit of local communities. To this end, the RDA Pilbara committee and Chair will have a strong understanding of federal, state and local government policies and initiatives, and the ways in which local communities can engage with them. RDA Pilbara will take a leadership role in bringing together organisations to take advantage of government programmes, policies and initiatives. RDA Pilbara will be an effective conduit between governments and regional communities. It will enable all communities within the region to provide input to governments about the strengths and weaknesses of the Pilbara region. Page 23

24 Needs, Challenges and Opportunities The base economic activity for the Pilbara is strong. The economy of the region, particularly the contribution from the resource sector, is the major driver of growth in the region. The Pilbara has impacts on the economic progress of the State and in turn, is impacted by developments in the State and Australia, including policy settings and competition for inputs needed for large scale expansion and diversification. The region is competing globally for skilled people and it must attend to factors which have been identified to make places attractive for people to live. The region has many assets that if relied on solely can relate in the future to challenges. The need to diversify the economy is paramount as is the need to provide a liveable and sustainable environment. RDA Pilbara has identified strengths, needs and challenges as well as opportunities that have informed the development of its vision for the region. Strengths The Pilbara is a resource region, one of the strongest anywhere in the world. Major economic activities in the Pilbara include mining of iron ore and base metals, and the extraction of oil, gas and salt. There is a small manufacturing and minerals processing industry and service industry as well as tourism, pastoralism and fishing activities. The largest export commodity in Australia is iron ore and approximately 95% of this is produced in the Pilbara. The region also produces 70% of Australia's natural gas. This is sourced from the Carnarvon Basin off-shore and is serviced and processed onshore from the City of Karratha at Dampier. The Pilbara accounts for almost two thirds of the commodity exports of the State by value, which is almost 20% of the total value of merchandise exports of Australia. This means that 20% of national goods exports are made possible by 0.2% of the national population. In 2012 the Pilbara (on and off shore) was responsible for $75.1 billion of the production value of minerals and petroleum, 74% of the Western Australian total. This is projected to grow strongly as construction projects currently underway are completed and production increases. Its location to the north of Western Australia and in the same time zone as many of the highest growth countries in the world provides interesting opportunities. These strengths provide a substantial platform for further growth and opportunity for business and industry. Needs and Challenges - Pilbara Futures Building on a Strong Base The Pilbara has a very strong base to build on. It has world-class economic activity and is well connected to the world. It has well established towns that are being upgraded by the day. It has an exciting future, but it must meet some challenges to improve its resilience to inevitable changing circumstances in the future and achieve true longevity and sustainability. Page 24

25 The business as usual trajectory for population growth is flat. This is the future for the Pilbara if it relies only on resources industries for its economic life. The Pilbara has a need for significant economic diversification. The fluctuations of commodity prices will influence the viability of new projects. The changes in the project lifecycle which sees a shift from construction to operation will serve to dampen population growth. The competing supply for both gas and ore products from other global locations, often with a lower cost base, will influence demand from overseas markets. Over the very long term resources have a lifespan and the community must plan to outlive this lifespan. The constraints to growth and diversification in the Pilbara are formidable. It is unlikely that economic and social opportunities in the region will be fully maximised without changes to the operating environment. The region needs much more than resources for its future. There are many challenges: An unbalanced structure of resources completely dominating GRP, with exposure to commodity price fluctuations and rising costs; Diversification is problematic given the small size of the local market and above all the current exceptionally high cost structure of the region; Shortages of land and accommodation are restraining commercial growth; and Existing essential infrastructure installations are at, or beyond, capacity and there are high costs associated with new power, water and transport supply capacity. Opportunities The four Pilbara Local Government Areas have a range of strategic and community plans and policies recognising and supporting environmental and sustainable considerations, activities and initiatives. Importantly underpinning development in all community sectors is the need for affordable housing, as this has an impact on attracting and retaining workers, accommodating tourists and encouraging permanent residency in the region. The Pilbara has a number of characteristics that provide the potential for future development of sustainable commercial scale algae industries. Other potential nonmining export sector projects include bio-fuels, hi tech greenhouse, aquaculture fish farming and fish processing factories. The growth of the tourism sector will be an action for the region from 2015 onwards as the construction phase of major projects wind down. The demand for informal flyin-fly-out accommodation has underpinned the viability of many of the short stay establishments across the region. There is likely to be capacity and need to change orientation to tourism to maintain business turnover. This in turn will spill over to many other areas of economic activity including retail and food services. RDA Pilbara will closely consider the recommendations in the Regional Investment Blueprint Implementation Plan that will be developed by the Pilbara Development Commission and will align priorities accordingly. Page 25

26 Key and Emerging Issues Within the Pilbara there is a need to concentrate on features that make the Pilbara attractive beyond resources. A resilient future builds on the strong resource base, but does not rely on it to meet all future needs. The urgent needs are to diversify the economy and ensure economic resilience. There is also a need to provide services and lifestyle features to support a large and more diverse population. RDA Pilbara work collaboratively with Pilbara Development Commission, the Chambers of Commerce and the Small Business Centres across the Pilbara to support economic diversification and promote the establishment of businesses. RDA Pilbara will take on a leadership role to promote the Pilbara and encourage investment in infrastructure that will support the delivery of a sustainable and liveable environment. The price indexes for the Pilbara are the highest of any region in WA and impact negatively on employment costs to businesses and NGOs. Over the five year period from 2007 to 2011 the gap between the Regional Price Index for the region and Perth had widened by 26 points which equates to an average increase in costs of nearly 5% per year when comparing the two regions. The ability to attract and retain a residential workforce in regional WA depends in part on the cost of living and amenity in key regional centres. A mismatch between demand and supply of land has resulted in Pilbara property prices and rents increasing significantly, increasing the probability of both companies and individuals making the FIFO choice. It is only in the very recent period that accommodation supply in the major centres has started to catch up with demand and accommodation prices are starting to moderate. A key new factor in the next stage of growth for the Pilbara is a change from the past impetus for growth. To date, development momentum has been driven by the needs of big organisations driving big projects, supported by big government intervention. This phase is coming to an end: the next phase will consist of a much richer mix of much smaller and diversified projects and initiatives and will need to arise from within the community and not be imposed from outside as much as it might have in the past. RDA Pilbara will strive to be recognised for making a positive, measurable and valued contribution to the Pilbara economy. The Western Australian Government s Pilbara Cities vision is to create attractive, sustainable local communities and places where people choose to settle on a permanent basis, to bring up families with access to high standards of education, health and diverse employment and career opportunities. The Pilbara Cities key focus areas are infrastructure coordination; land availability and development; community projects and engagement; and economic diversification. The purpose of focusing on these areas is to address the challenges associated with record population growth resulting from exponential growth within the resource sector. RDA Pilbara will develop a collaborative and inclusive approach to promote the Pilbara as a region for viable infrastructure investment. Page 26