REGIONAL COORDINATION NETWORKS

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS (14:59): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Regional Development a question about regional coordination networks.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.S.L. DAWKINS: Over the last decade, regional coordination networks (or RCNs) have operated in some form or another in most non-metropolitan areas of the state. Indeed, there are some metropolitan areas that have indicated an interest in their formation. The first of this type of group was established by the previous government as a trial in the Riverland and was based around membership by the most senior regional officers of state government departments, as well as local government bodies and the relevant regional development board or boards.

I note the government's intention to match the regional coordination networks to the new common regional boundaries under the chairmanship of senior public servants, including members of the senior management council. I ask the minister:

1. To what extent are local government bodies represented on the regional coordination networks?

2. Are all the new Regional Development Australia boards represented on the RCNs?

3. Will the minister bring back details of each RCN in the non-metropolitan regions, including the chair and other state government personnel involved and the frequency of meetings?

4. Will the minister commit to the future of the regional coordination networks?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Public Sector Management, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Government Enterprises) (15:01): This government is very much committed to regional South Australia. We have committed a great deal of resources and other commitments to regional South Australia. My understanding is that, in terms of the current regional arrangements, we have seen that Regional Development Australia, as a federal initiative, is the organisation that now brings together all levels of government to enhance the growth and development of Australia's regions. So it is in fact the RDAs which are the tripartite mechanism to bring those different levels of government together, and it is that which is now the major mechanism to provide that level of coordination.

As we know, a network of these committees has been established, not only throughout South Australia, but right throughout Australia, and their aim is to provide a strategic framework for the economic growth and sustainability in each region. They have been required to put in place mechanisms for regional planning that incorporate economic, social and also environmental matters. That is the main vehicle that brings those levels of government together. In relation to the other specific matters that the member raises, I am happy to take those on notice and bring back a response.