Australia's Regions and their Potential for Economic and Population Growth

Abstract

This paper considers the economic processes shaping the future of settlement in Australia and argues that complex forces are at work, and that towns and regions that can identify and develop new industries have considerable potential for growth. The paper begins by discussing the evidence relating to urban growth also amongst Australia’s regional cities and then moves on to consider the role of innovation in shaping the future of both industries and regions. The paper provides an example of innovation contributing to a potential new future for an established rural industry and concludes with a discussion on the implications for communities, industries and governments.