Hunter Economic Update

Download publication | presentations | view video from the May 2012 breakfast

Media Release
Thursday, 10 May 2012

Capacity constraints restrict export growth

The balance between the resource-related sectors and the debt and trade-exposed elements of the economy has tilted towards the weaker sectors, according to Hunter Valley Research Foundation’s (HVRF) Director of Research Simon Deeming.

“Combined with State and Federal Government fiscal conservatism, greater pressure has been placed on monetary policy to sustain balanced economic growth. However, those within the weaker sectors should manage their enthusiasm,” he cautions.

“While the Reserve Bank is acting to support (and will probably further support) these industries by cutting interests rates, and therein boosting demand and lowering the currency, it is only acting while capacity constraints (equipment, labour, infrastructure) hinder the upside of commodity exports.”

Read more: Hunter Economic Update

Sydney Lunch Transcripts

The Hon. Nick Greiner and Dr Wej Paradice's speeches are now available to download

49th Annual Luncheon at Parliament House on 2 May 2012 featured:

• The Hon. Nick Greiner AC, Chairman - Infrastructure NSW
  Infrastructure priorities for NSW and the Hunter
  Download transcript | View video of speech
  
  
• Dr W.E.J. Paradice, CEO - Hunter Valley Research Foundation
  Information as critical regional infrastructure
  Download transcript | View video of speech

More information about the Sydney Luncheon

Official building commencement

HVRF CEO Dr WEJ Paradice met with Stibbard Homes directors Neil Albert and Sam Stibbard on 24 February to sign the final contract giving the go ahead to commence the $900,000+ refurbishment of the Research Centre.

The plans include repairing and modernising the dilapidated Macquarie Building to bring it into line with the Stage 1 extension completed along Throsby Creek in 2007.

In recognition of the contribution of $698,000 from the Federal Goverment through the Regional Development Australia Fund, the Hon. Greg Combet, Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Minister for Industry and Innovation will officiate at a building commencement ceremony at the Foundation's Maryville site on Friday, 9 March.

The main construction phase will commence on Monday, 12 March.