GSEM event at Parliament House
Greater South East Melbourne (GSEM) gathered in the historic Federation Room at Parliament House on 19 March for an insightful event advocating for greater recognition and understanding of GSEM as a key region for investment and support.
The room buzzed with more than 70 regional leaders and decision-makers, including MPs, CEOs, mayors, and community influencers.
Together, we discussed a shared vision for a region that's not only an economic hub but a beacon of innovation, livability, and cultural diversity.
The event was also an opportunity to reflect on the significant changes the region has undergone over the past 30 years, being home to significant economic and population growth.
The transformation journey of the GSEM region is not over, it is shifting from its manufacturing roots to a diverse, multifaceted economic powerhouse with advanced manufacturing biotech, education, healthcare, the arts, retail, and agriculture all represented.
But what stood out most were the conversations about our future. This is a region with so much opportunity. Investment in infrastructure such as a world-class airport that could connect us to the world. With a commitment to supporting thriving communities, the people of the south east have much to look forward to.
Special thanks to our host Gary Maas MP, speaker Brad Battin MP and panelists the Hon Sonya Kilkenny (Minister for Planning and Minister for the Suburbs), Margaret Fitzherbert (GSEM Independent Director), Cr Jude Dwight (Mayor, Knox City Council) and Fred Harrison (CEO, Ritchies Supermarkets) for their powerful insights and compelling discussion on the region's priorities and potential.
This event demonstrated how the south east is an important region for Melbourne, Victoria and Australia. The panel discussed how far we have come and how, with the right decisions and timing, how far we can go to support the 1.5 million residents in Greater South East Melbourne.
We're grateful for the opportunity to share GSEM’s vision with the all sides of politics. Our goal is to ensure that our collective voice is heard at the highest levels.
The takeaway? The south east has been on a journey over many years and together with other levels of government we can collaborate, innovate, and build a future that will serve generations to come.