The capacity for detailed research into business and industry developments in western NSW communities will be enhanced with the launch of the Western Research Institute (WRI) to be based at Charles Sturt University’s Bathurst Campus.

This independent research body is the result of collaboration between State and Federal governments, business, industry and community agencies from the Central West, Orana and Far West regions.

Through collaboration and consultation across these regions, which covers nearly three-quarters of the State, the Institute will focus on the support of business decision making, strategic planning and economic development.

Funding for WRI has come from CSU, the NSW Department of State and Regional Development, Federal Department of Employment, Workplace Relations and Small Business, Regional Development Boards and Area Consultative Committees and its first corporate sponsor, Advance Energy.

Minister for State and Regional Development Harry Woods will be the guest speaker at a luncheon following the launch. The lunch will be held in the CSU Dining Room at 1.00 pm.