The state’s business chamber is leading the push for a new economic zone that would see north coast businesses better compete against their south-east Queensland counterparts.
The zone, extending from Grafton to the border, is one of 10 ideas put forward on how to grow the Northern Rivers at an economic development forum in Byron Bay.
“It will discourage this movement of business from New South Wales into Queensland simply because of cost differences,” said the CEO of the NSW Business Chamber, Stephen Cartwright.
Getting the rail line reopened is also a priority, with a case study showing the economy of regional Victoria has forged ahead thanks to improved rail and passenger services.
“But it’s just economic infrastructure. So lifestyle infrastructure, things like community arts centres, education facilities, health facilities and community-based facilities have been really important,” said Justin Hanney from Regional Development Victoria.
