Representatives from a number of organisations, including Mildura Rural City Council, Wentworth Shire Council, Mildura Development Corporation, SuniTAFE, La Trobe University, Lower Murray Water, local schools, and health and welfare advocates, met this week to develop an action plan and digital economy strategy which will assist in lobbying NBN Co in a bid to have the Mildura Wentworth region nominated in the next 3 year rollout schedule that is due to be released by NBN Co in early 2012.

Local champion and MDC Board Director, Jenny Grigg, said the meeting was the first step in tackling an issue that is critical to our region’s economy and communities.

“Access to broadband infrastructure will improve our ability to grow and attract businesses and investment; it is vital for the health and education sectors and will help improve community inclusiveness,” Mrs Grigg said.

 

Mildura mayor Cr John Arnold said the organisation was committed to doing all it can to move our region further up the NBN roll out list.

 

“Working together collectively as a region is the best chance we have at getting NBN Co to reconsider when we receive access to broadband infrastructure,” Cr Arnold said.

 

Mayor Margaret Thomson of the Wentworth Shire said the NBN rollout must happen in this region as soon as possible. “With it we will have a competitive edge to attract business and people, without it we will lose opportunities to other regions. The rollout will give our youth an equal footing with our city cousins,” she said. “Council will set up an internal project team to ensure any pending rollout occurs as effectively as possible.”

“The Mildura Wentworth region has shown it’s more than ready for improved connectivity, from households, farmers, virtual schools and businesses. The NBN4Mildura –Wentworth Project Team will strongly advocate for the needs across this vast geographic region, for access to a broadband network that has capacity, coverage and reliability.” Mrs Grigg said.

 

NBN4Mildura-Wentworth will consult with community and business stakeholders in preparing a digital economy strategy and will also work with Regional Development Australia (RDA) Boards in the Loddon-Mallee and Murray regions to assist in the push for the NBN.

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