The state government should recognise Werribee as a key growth and development precinct, according to former Victorian premier Steve Bracks.
Mr Bracks, who will address a sold-out Committee for Wyndham breakfast on February 19, said the area had substantial attractions for business, industry, education and health service.
He said Melbourne’s west – “particularly the corridor around Werribee” – had significant advantages over other metropolitan regions in Melbourne.
“It has superior logistical advantages, which we undersell but could profit from much more,” he said.
“We have access to three major highways, standard-gauge rail and a curfew-free airport.
“Most capital cities would lust after such a logistical superiority, and that gives us an advantage in the choice of location of industry, where development will occur and how we can capitalise on that.”
Mr Bracks said the government should recognise Werribee as a key development precinct, invest in infrastructure and actively encourage industry to the area.
“A key issue is the improvement of infrastructure in the west where growth has outstripped the necessary infrastructure.
‘‘It’s important that we address the freeway system, the road system off the freeway, the separation between road and rail, and improved rail access into the city.
“This is one of the precincts that should be developed.
“Victoria has the Parkville precinct with biotechnology and the Monash precinct with IT, and we’ve got Werribee with life sciences such as horticulture and animal health. It requires significant intervention from government, which should say, ‘This is a precinct we want to develop’.”
Mr Bracks, who is patron of Western Melbourne Tourism, said Werribee’s numerous attractions could also be a boon for future employment growth.
“Don’t underestimate the pull of tourism,” he said.
