That is the question being asked by the Illawarra Business Chamber which wants a new clearer definition for state and federal funding and infrastructure priorities that recognise the value of regional economic centres such as Wollongong and Shellharbour. The chamber has outlined the importance of a greater commitment to regional growth centres in a submission to the Productivity Commission’s Transitioning Regional Economies Inquiry. 

Executive director Chris Lamont said a new definition would recognise the significance of the Illawarra in supporting business investment and the capacity to generate employment opportunities. He said the region has demonstrated the capacity to offer improved productivity, a reduced cost base, significant jobs growth and affordability.

But confusion exists over which parts of the region are classified as regional and, therefore, eligible for state and federal funding initiatives. And the chamber is concerned about the region being short changed.

“Regional Economic Centres offer a lower cost base and present productivity benefits that many businesses operating in high cost locations.  The competitive advantages of these centres need to be harnessed to provide the next wave of investment and jobs growth,” he said.