Bathurst technology centre holds bright future for Central West
September 7, 2007

The Federal Labor Candidate for Macquarie, Bob Debus, today pledged his support for the proposed Australian Centre for Science, Technology and Emerging Industries in Bathurst.

The technology park is being developed by local resident Tom Forgan in conjunction with Bathurst Council, Charles Sturt University, the Western Institute of TAFE and the NSW Department of Lands.

Mr Forgan has been involved in three similar projects, including the highly successful Australian Technology Park at Redfern.

“This is a visionary and innovative project that has the potential to secure a high-tech future and long-term jobs for our region,” said Mr Debus.

“As a centre for emerging industries, Bathurst would have unlimited potential for regional growth through the development and expansion of local industries and educational institutions.

“The park would secure jobs for future generations, attract skilled professionals to the area and boost skill levels in the local workforce.

“High-tech jobs would encourage Central West high school and university graduates to stay in the area rather than moving to metropolitan centres.”

Mr Debus said the commitment of all levels of government was needed to drive the project forward and he would support any application the project made for funding under the Regional Partnerships program.

“If I was to be elected, I would work with project developer Tom Forgan to advocate to a Rudd Labor Government and the NSW Government that the technology park become a reality,” he said.

“As a former NSW Minister, I appreciate the benefit of cooperation between all levels of government. I have already spoken to Tony Kelly, the NSW Minister for Lands, Rural Affairs and Regional Development, and he understands the potential of this enterprise for the Central West.

“The NSW Government has made a good start by contributing land and temporary office space in the Mapping Department for anchor tenant IBM, which is working on data processing and software management.”

Mr Debus said the park’s position — near Charles Sturt University, TAFE and the NSW Department of Lands — would give tenants access to training, research and advanced computing. The park would include centres for research, education, skills-based training and advanced manufacturing.

“Federal Labor understands the importance of investing in long-term projects that will generate jobs and expand business activity,” said Mr Debus.

“I can see a bright future for Bathurst with this project and would work with Kevin Rudd to maximise support from a Labor Government.”

Mr Debus said the Central West could become an industrial and high-tech hub if a proposed industrial park next to Wallerawang Power Station also went ahead.

“This is an exciting way of engaging industry in Lithgow and providing training and jobs for young people from the area,” he said.

“Gerard Martin, the State Labor Member for Bathurst, is working with the Lithgow Council and local businesses to boost the economy with this project. I am committed to working with them towards the same goal.”