NSW Liberal Senator Arthur Sinodinos visited the Illawarra yesterday (9 July) calling on governments at all levels to assist with coherent economic plans to diversify the region’s economy.

The Senator said he supported the need for the region to present a strategic plan for economic growth that will serve the community for decades to come.

His agenda included discussions with senior representatives from the University of Wollongong held at the Innovation Campus.

“I had some very positive talks here at the Innovation Campus.

“They have some inspiring ideas about attracting and nurturing the best young talent in NSW and beyond.

“Importantly, they have an eye on the global marketplace and how to compete successfully with competitors at home and abroad.

“Wollongong is more than just a steel city and steps are being taken to broaden its horizons,” he said.

Senator Sinodinos, also Coalition Deregulation Taskforce Chairman, met the Illawarra Business Chamber and identified unnecessary red tape and other regulatory hurdles to business success.

He met also Wollongong City Council Mayor Gordon Bradbery, about the vibrant future of the region.

“One of the main themes that came from today’s talks was the need to bring together leaders across the region to advocate a plan that will map out how to grow the region through an increase in jobs and investment that will lead to a more vibrant community,” the Senator said.

Senator Sinodinos was the long-serving Chief of Staff to former Prime Minister John Howard. He entered the Senate last year following the retirement of Liberal Senator Helen Coonan.