MANY parts of regional Australia have suffered as a result of the end of the mining boom and decline of local manufacturing.
Regions like Ipswich, which once thrived in these prosperous industries, are experiencing the 'brain drain' - unable to attract and retain skilled workers as employment opportunities diminish and businesses that once defined these areas disappear.
These communities have been served a challenge; how do they reinvent and reinvigorate themselves in order to stay relevant, competitive and attractive in this changing environment?
Fortunately, local Australian small businesses are tackling this challenge head-on. Ipswich is a prime example - once known as a cradle for coal mining and railway infrastructure.
The area has undergone a major shift in its economic landscape, diversifying towards a serviced-based economy where knowledge and information are crucial in driving business growth and productivity.
What's happening in places like Ipswich is indicative of the transformation taking place across a number of regional Australian towns.
Our ever-changing digital landscape combined with the breakdown of traditional industries is facilitating innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship as vibrant businesses disrupt and challenge the status-quo.
Access to new technologies and fast broadband is helping to drive a movement of 'Silicon Suburbs' in
regional Australia led by bold entrepreneurs.
We've already begun to see the benefits of access to the NBN network in regional towns as the expanding footprint now reaches more than quarter of the roll out and is scheduled to be completed within the next few years.
I've seen first hand in places like Ipswich, how the tech start-up explosion has replaced what was once a coal mining hub with young entrepreneurs taking the chance on a new business idea from their hometown.
We're now increasingly seeing businesses improve their productivity by going completely 'virtual' as files, administration, emails, communication and accounting are digitally recorded and accessible any time, anywhere in the cloud.
These applications and the growing ability to drive sales by offering e-commerce services is predicted to see a $4b boost to our Gross Domestic Product each year.
Job growth, innovation and opportunity are no longer restricted to businesses within the major cities.
Universal access to fast broadband will allow small and medium businesses in the region to enjoy similar access to their big city counterparts.
With the roll out of the NBN network set to be complete by the year 2020 a digital future is imminent - Ipswich is set to thrive if businesses choose to accept the challenge.
BEN SALMON GM Business NBN
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