Kellie Sloane
Leader of the Opposition
NSW Liberal Leader
A Liberals and Nationals Government will establish a Regional Parliament in its first year, delivering on a commitment to reconnect with the communities that sustain NSW.
Under the policy, the NSW Parliament will sit for a full week in a regional city, with both the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council conducting Question Time, debating legislation and undertaking the full business of Parliament outside Sydney.
Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said it is important to bring the political process to regional towns and cities and remind those on Macquarie Street of the world outside the city.
"While travelling across NSW this year what I've heard from regional communities is that they often feel forgotten and their voice doesn't matter," Ms Sloane said.
"As someone who was brought up in the country, I feel strongly about addressing that."
"Regional NSW grows our food, powers our economy, supports our exports and drives so much of our prosperity. The regions do most of our heavy lifting and therefore deserve a Parliament that is prepared to come to them."
Under the plan the host regional centre would be selected following a transparent, competitive process overseen by a multi-party parliamentary committee.
Communities would then have the opportunity to bid to host Parliament, showcasing their region, industries and local priorities.
"This is not about symbolism. It is about making better decisions through better understanding," Ms Sloane said.
"When Members spend a week living, working and engaging in regional communities, they return to Sydney with a deeper appreciation of the impact government decisions have on families, farmers, small businesses and local industries."
The NSW Liberals and Nationals said the initiative would also deliver significant economic benefits to host cities.
Beyond the immediate economic injection, the annual sitting would place a national spotlight on the host region, showcasing its industries, attractions and investment opportunities to the rest of the state.
"Government works best when it is close to the people it serves," Ms Sloane said.
"An Annual Regional Parliament will strengthen democracy, improve public policy, benefit the host region and send a clear message that regional New South Wales is central to our state's future."
