Regional cities ‘falling behind capitals’

The Federal Government has been urged to offer regional cities like Geraldton an infrastructure deal like the “city deals” offered to State capitals.

This comes on the back of the Australian Infrastructure 2019 Audit by Infrastructure Australia showing regional cities are in danger of being left behind in a widening infrastructure gap with the State capitals.

Regional Capitals Australia deputy chair and City of Greater Geraldton mayor Shane Van Styn said the report showed urgent planning was needed for Geraldton.

“The Federal Government should back the growth of our regional capital cities. There have been City Deals announced for many of the big metro cities, so the time is right to ensure our regional cities get their fair share of investment,” he said.

He said the City of Greater Geraldton would work with Regional Capitals Australia to lobby deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, and Assistant Minister Nola Marino, to secure a Regional Deal for Geraldton.