The Region On the back of its proud history of agricultural productivity and manufacturing innovation, an experienced supply chain and modern infrastructure are just a few of the attributes being used to promote and attract external investment to the region. The tourism, agriculture and renewable energy industries have continued to fuel new economic activity as local business gets on with driving the economy forward. The Western Downs is recognised as the Energy Capital of Australia, given advancement in renewable energy technology, legacies of the Coal Seam Gas Industry and Government incentives in relation to the provision of green, clean, renewable energy products. Council approved one large scale solar power development with additional development applications under assessment and numerous other projects intending to commence construction soon. This brings the total number of large-scale solar farms approved since 2016 to twenty-one, with three projects progressing rapidly towards construction as of June 2020. More than 2,000 construction jobs are expected to be created as a result of this investment in the region, ensuring the long-term sustainability and diversification of the region's economy. Positioned at the centre of a national transport network, the region's strategic location ensures greater accessibility and continued movement of freight within and through the Western Downs. Continuing upgrades to critical infrastructure such as the Warrego Highway, together with National building projects outside the administrative boundary, including the Toowoomba Bypass and Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport, continue to improve the region's access to international markets. A growing number of local jobs and affordable housing support opportunities for new residents to relocate to the Western Downs, and significant events and attractions also boost tourism and enhance the region's liveability. The Western Downs region has continued to realise sustainable growth, delivering quality services and improving the region's natural, economic, social and cultural environment. The Western Downs means business.
People Consistently enjoying population growth despite the trend of rural population decline, the Western Downs region welcomed 126 persons in the year to June 2019, representing a 2.5% increase over the past five years. Our residential population is expected to increase to 39,797 persons over the period to 2041, an average annual growth rate of 0.6% over 25 years. As at March 2020, the unemployment rate was 3.2%. This is significantly below the average for Queensland (7.5%)
WESTERN DOWNS REGIONAL COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 1 JULY 2019 TO 30 JUNE 2020
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