Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor and Member for Goulburn Pru Goward have welcomed the findings of a Regional Australia Institute (RAI) study highlighting the “strong potential for growth” for Goulburn.

Speaking at a launch event in Goulburn, Mr Taylor said the “Prosperous Futures: Understanding the Potential of Australia’s Regional Cities” report compared case studies on the two successful regional cities of Goulburn and Orange.

“The study goes beyond looking at competitiveness; it suggests ways for Goulburn to convert its advantages into economic growth. It’s my strong opinion that Goulburn is poised for a prosperous future. It is ideally situated along the Hume Corridor to attract new businesses, tree-changers, retirees, young families. Pushing hard to fill telecommunications gaps, for services such as Headspace, encouraging more decentralisation opportunities and expanding tertiary education opportunities, is what I am focusing on for Goulburn,” he said.

Ms Goward said the time was right for Goulburn to capitalise on its natural and strategic advantages.

“Thanks to the now fully operational Southern Highlands-Goulburn pipeline, uncertainty over water security is almost entirely a thing of the past and I am confident that Goulburn will grow faster than at any time in the last twenty years.

“We need to ensure we have a first class hospital, capable of supporting not only Goulburn’s growing population but the people in surrounding towns. I continue to advocate for a substantial investment in our hospital, as well as improved rail services and strong public schools. A university campus in Goulburn is also long overdue,” Ms Goward said.

She said Goulburn’s future as a dynamic regional centre, as a tourism hub and as a city with a strong manufacturing sector relied on state, federal and local investment, as well as business confidence. “I am confident that Goulburn has the leadership team to realise on our great natural advantages”.

Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Geoff Kettle said council was playing a central role in identifying growth prospects. “Jobs bring confidence to the community. Now Goulburn’s water is secure, more businesses are choosing Goulburn for relocation. Recent approvals such as the Macarthur Grange Brewery, applications for a new motel, a major conference centre and residential development in the CBD, send the message that Goulburn is the ideal location for both businesses and families.”