Regional Australia's engagement with China in the Asian century. Innovation, integration and impact.

Regional Australia is a major source of Australia’s economic growth and prosperity as it plays a significant role in shaping the nation’s economy, employment and exports. It accounts for about 40% of the national output, 65% of the nation’s exports by value, and 45% of tourism spending. Regional Australia is also home to over one-third (8.8 million) of Australia’s population and employs about one-third of the workforce (Regional Australia Institute, 2015).

Despite its significant contribution and tremendous future potential to the national economy, employment and social development, several challenges exist in capturing the full potential of regional Australia and what it can offer. Infrastructure, such as roads (transportation) and communications (internet and telecommunications), is a major issue in most areas of regional Australia. Furthermore, many areas lack appropriate social services such as hospitals and schools.