A Natural Choice

With the economic growth of recent years set to continue the Peel Region is ideally placed to capitalise on some significant opportunities.

The centre of the Peel Region is less than one hour from Perth, providing a major competitive advantage over other regions in terms of its access to the International Airport and major shipping facilities. Prices for goods and services are better than or equivalent to the metropolitan area - another important factor in the Region's growth prospects.

Tourism

The Region offers many opportunities for the development of significant tourism related projects. Heritage related tourism experiences will be expanded with the development of a Heritage Park in Jarrahdale. The Park is planned to focus on the timber industry and its importance in the settlement and development of the State. And the continuing work on sustainable development of the Peel Region waterways will encourage further recreational attractions.

Construction

The Region continues to experience sustained population growth and it is projected that the population of the Peel Region will exceed 108,000 by 2011. This growth will stimulate the demand for building and construction services for residential projects, public infrastructure and tourist facilities.

Agriculture

It is well recognised that agriculture in the Peel region will be required to diversify to ensure longer term sustainability . The level and intensity of agricultural production can be increased with improved pasture species and land management principles. Opportunities exist for agroforestry and the production of specialist crops and animal products to meet niche markets.

Technology and Telecommunications

As telecommunications technology continues to evolve, an increasing proportion of the workforce is choosing to telecommute rather than travel to central offices. With its aquatic attractions and enviable lifestyle advantages, the Peel region could expect a significant increase in residents who work via modem.

Teleconferencing, mobile telephone networks and related telecommunications services are all available throughout the region. The Peel eCommerce project has extended the online capabilities of regional business and the climate and environment of the region also make it suitable for the establishment or relocation of Information Technology organsations. The telecommunications infrastructure within the major centres in the region is equivalent to that found in the metropolitan area including ISDN capabilities.

Aquaculture

The Peel Region is home to over 130 square kilometers of estuaries and inland waterways. The outstanding success of the Dawesville Channel project has meant that the health of the waters of the Peel-Harvey Estuary has never been better. The Commission together with other stakeholders is already investigating the opportunities for the establishment of an Estuarine Research Centre.

Aboriginal Economic Development

The Commission is assisting the regional aboriginal groups in a number of business planning strategies. The projects are planned to celebrate Aboriginal heritage and culture and include elements such as the performing arts, cultural education, historical and commemorative material and retail of traditional arts and crafts.

Industry and Commerce

The Commission is currently working with regional stakeholders to identify sites suitable for light industrial and commercial activity. These areas will provide the catalyst for the expansion of industry into the Peel Region. The provision of infrastructure is also being considered in an effort to raise the profile of the Region as a suitable location for businesses.