Levelling the playing field:

OPEN FOR OPPORTUNITIES... The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence is the cornerstone of the Goulburn Murray Regional Prosperity Plan, aiming to deliver $150M back into the economy through a circular economy model. Pictured is Kaiela Institue executive chairman, Paul Briggs AO. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

A prosperity plan for all

TACKLING disadvantage and opening new opportunities to the most vulnerable, so that everyone can participate on a level playing field and contribute to the collective wealth of the region is central to the Goulburn Murray Regional Prosperity Plan.

Driven by the Kaiela Institute, a First Nations-led analysis and policy think tank, with support from education partners University of Melbourne, La Trobe University and GOTAFE, the Plan seeks to build a thriving First Nations economy to generate new income, opportunities and shared prosperity for the benefit of all people.

“In Shepparton we have been relentless in our desire to make radical changes to extreme disadvantage,” said Paul Briggs AO, executive chairman of Kaiela Institute. “Designed by the region, for the region, the Plan marks an historical turning point. it is a watershed moment for our region that promises to restore a thriving First Nations economy. This, in turn will create new productivity and prosperity for everyone.”

OPEN FOR OPPORTUNITIES… The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence is the cornerstone of the Goulburn Murray Regional Prosperity Plan, aiming to deliver $150M back into the economy through a circular economy model. Pictured is Kaiela Institue executive chairman, Paul Briggs AO. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

“By working in close collaboration with Yorta Yorta and First Nations people, the region can create a thriving economy with circular economic flows building shared prosperity and regional growth.”

The Munarra Centre for Regional Excellence is a key enabler of the 15-year Plan, aiming to deliver parity on life expectancy and quality of life for Yorta Yorta people, whilst generating an additional $150M gross regional product (GRP) per annum through economic stimulation; provided by employment and business growth for both established and upcoming First Nations-led business initiatives.

The Plan flips how we view and understand the place and role of First Nations people in the regional economy from a prevailing deficit model to a positive and contributory model.

Taking responsibility, the region will share in the value generated from a place-based circular economy model, whilst also fostering understanding of, and respect for, the social, cultural and economic contributions of Yorta Yorta and First Nations people.