The 2008-09 State of the Regions report continues to focus on the challenges of climate change, especially given the financial economic crisis engulfing the globe. The Report adds to the accumulated knowledge of previous reports on climate change, including discussion of the impact of emissions trading on regional households. Several case studies are presented to highlight the range of council strategies that are being implemented to reduce the impact of climate change on local and regional communities.
The state of Australia’s households is reviewed. Specific topics explored include household wealth and debt, the baby bounce, migration patterns and employment levels.
The report also provides an updated commentary of the state of Australia’s telecommunications – broadband infrastructure.
An extensive appendix of regional indicators underpins the findings of the main report and forms a valuable economic analysis of the state of Australia’s 65 designated regions.