Challenges & Strengths
The G21 region is diverse in its physical, social and economic characteristics. This diversity inevitably brings with it a range of strengths across the region, but also presents some challenges.
G21's activities are spread across eight key subject fields, known as Pillars, around which work is being undertaken in response to the region's strengths and challenges.
Some G21 region challenges
Under-serviced communities
Pockets of entrenched disadvantage in our community, with displaced workers are potentially exacerbating this under-service.
A rapidly changing economy
Traditionally the Geelong economy has relied on heavy manufacturing, such petroleum refining, aluminum smelting, vehicle and vehicle-component manufacture and textile production. A difficult international economic climate and aging infrastructure is making it difficult for these industries. The economy must transition to employment such as education, health, scientific research, new-technology and service/tourism industries.
Health outcomes
The region rates lower that the Victorian average in some significant health-related indicators.
Education outcomes
Lower than the Victorian average in all but trades, with lower post-secondary qualifications and one in four children leaving school early.
Links to Melbourne
Strained road and transport links (rail and road) between Melbourne and the region.
Public Transport
A large region, with dispersed population centres creates an increase demand for public transport.
Ageing population
Creates shrinking workforce and presents challenges to health service provision.
Climate Change
Our climate is likely to be dramatically different in the near future, with varied impacts on agricultural enterprises, rising sea levels affecting coastal communities and water availability for urban, industrial and agricultural use.
Carbon Footprint
As we move to a carbon-constrained future, our carbon intensive industries will come under enormous pressure.
Some G21 region strengths
Strong educational institutions
Creates education opportunities for the community and is a source of economic and creative vitality.
Avalon Airport
Major infrastructure asset that is underutilised and has been constrained in its efforts to expand.
Port infrastructure and development capacity
Victoria’s largest bulk port that can service growing demand from agricultural products.
Research capabilities
Presence of two CSIRO facilities, Deakin University and Barwon Health provides intellectual horsepower to drive future economy.
Growing services and events sector
Injects more than $40 million into the local economy, creating the equivalent of 325 full time jobs each year.
Environment and Lifestyle
Recognised for its ideal lifestyle, the Geelong region is home to the best surf beaches, gourmet food producers and wineries as well as internationally recognised major events.
Geelong Football Club
A huge economic stimulus for the region whose success generates pride in the community.
Biotechnology
An emerging source of quality employment for our region based on the intellectual assets of bodies including Deakin University, Barwon Health and CSIRO.
Tourism infrastructure
Our Coastline provides us with an outstanding tourism opportunity which the region has successfully utilised. There is significant growth in tourism numbers, especially from the lucrative international sector.
Aquaculture and marine industry
Extensive and relatively pristine coastline provides significant opportunities for the rapidly expanding aquaculture and marine industries.
Developments arising from infrastructure such as the Ring Road
Will attract residents to the region, and creates distribution, logistics and agricultural development opportunities.
Growing the region in a sustainable way
Our great lifestyle and fantastic opportunities can be used to attract people to invest or live in the region ensuring the continued liveability of the region.
Connected-up government
Strong leadership, strength of vision and understanding of the importance of working cross boundaries are instrumental in successfully leveraging government funding.
NDIS
With the professional expertise of the TAC already located in the region, there is considerable opportunity to locate the National Disability Insurance Authority here also.