SENATOR THE HON MATTHEW CANAVAN Minister for Resources and Northern Australia

The voice of Northern Australia has been further strengthened, with the first meeting today of the Northern Australia Advisory Council in Townsville.

 

Minister for Resources and Northern Australia, Senator Matt Canavan, said the Council would provide a direct link to Government for the regions of the North to provide regular updates about issues, projects and priorities.

 

“The members of this Council know what makes Northern Australia tick.  They represent a wide range of industries that are essential for the jobs and economic wellbeing of the North,” Minister Canavan said.

 

“Our Government takes Northern Australia seriously. We have Members and Senators across the North. I’m proud to live in Northern Australia and I regularly visit the towns and communities across all parts of this expansive region.

 

“But we know the best way to deliver for Northern Australia is to listen to the people who create the jobs and run the local businesses.”

 

The first council appointees are:

Councillor Jane McNamara, mayor of the Flinders Shire

Mr Nigel Browne, a Larrakia and Wulna man, Larrakia Development Corporation chief executive officer

Ms Nicole Roocke, Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia deputy chief executive

Ms Colleen Costello, pastoralist

Mr Col McKenzie, Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators chief executive officer and marine tourism consultant

Miss Leesa Jeffcoat, Diocesan director, Catholic Education, Diocese of Rockhampton

Councillor Peter Long, mayor of Karratha, engineer and environmental scientist

 

The Council will advise on issues including industry development, Indigenous employment, infrastructure and long-term planning.

 

“We are delivering on our plan for developing Northern Australia. We’re investing in the roads, dams and infrastructure that will create new opportunities and support new industries,” Minister Canavan said.

 

“I look forward to working with this Council as we build on these investments.”