BIG GROWTH: Coffs Harbour’s unique diversity as a major regional city demands we be included in big population discussions. Picture: Trevor Veale
by Greg White
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has weighed into the divisive debate of whether Australia should slash the number of migrants by describing the current intake as “just right.”
It would appear Labor leader Luke Foley also agrees with her but while both are obviously looking at the issue as far as metropolitan services and infrastructure are concerned, Regional Australia Institute (RAI) is arguing the case for growth centres such as Coffs Harbour to be included in the population debate.
For several weeks RAI chief executive Jack Archer has drawn attention to one-sided views and talked up the position of major population centres in the bush and the economic and social benefits provided by growth.
“It is incredibly disappointing to see dismissive attitudes to the potential contribution regional Australia can make to a big Australia,” he said.
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