Emerald Regional Forum puts Central Queensland in the driver’s seat

• Community leaders gathered in Emerald to chart priorities for the Central Highlands region.
• Emerald Regional Forum focused on unlocking growth in agriculture and mining.
• Part of the Crisafulli Government’s Regional Forum program giving communities a direct line to decision makers. 

The Crisafulli Government today hosted its second Regional Forum to help shape the future of the Central Highlands. 

The Emerald Regional Forum brought together business, community and civic leaders to discuss the next steps to drive economic development. 

It focused on unlocking new opportunities in agriculture and mining and identifying priorities to strengthen Central Queensland into the future. 

The forum featured a panel of leaders who shared insights and strategies to drive investment and create jobs. 

Minister Last said the forum was focused on ensuring the voices of regional communities were heard at the highest levels. 

“These regional forums are about making sure the people who live and work in regional Queensland have a genuine say in the decisions that affect their future,” Minister Last said. 

“Unlike the former Labor Government, we’re not flying in and telling people what they need. We’re here to listen and act, and deliver lasting solutions developed from the ground up. 

“After Labor turned its back on key industries like resources and agriculture, the Crisafulli Government is restoring confidence, backing our regions and working with local communities to support jobs and investment. 

“Central Queenslanders know the challenges and the opportunities in their region better than anyone. I want to hear directly from them about what’s working, what’s not, and how we can help unlock the region’s potential.” 

Regional Development Australia Central and Western Queensland Chair Tony Gambling said the forum would give locals a direct line to decision-makers.  

“Our region has enormous potential and today’s discussions will highlight the need for investment in the Central Highlands,” Mr Gambling said.  

“We're pleased to see the Queensland Government showing up, listening, and working alongside us for the future of regional Queensland."

Central Highlands Mayor Janice Moriarty said the forum would help to drive future growth across the region.