Talks to begin on developing a regional-specific data hub

The Federal Government is calling for public input into creating a regional data hub to better inform local leaders and regional communities.

The proposed hub will “improve the evidence base for regional communities, local leaders, industry and all levels of government by bringing together key economic, demographic and socio-economic data to provide easy access to information about their regions”.

It is part of the Commonwealth’s $13.7 million Better Data Use to Support Delivery for Regional Australians program announced in the 2020–21 federal Budget.

Federal Regional Communications Minister Mark Coulton said: “The Regional Data Hub will provide an enduring source of information that helps community users, all tiers of government, and others to serve the interests of their communities”.

The types of data collated will be based on the feedback received through this consultation, with the Government proposing that it focuses on economic, social, and demographic themes.

Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Territories Nola Marino said: “Consultations will ensure the Regional Data Hub provides high-quality outputs to support regional data users.

“I encourage everyone with an interest to make a submission,” Ms Marino said.

Feedback can be provided via a 20-minute survey or a submission responding to the consultation paper.

Public consultations close at 5pm AEST on 2 July.