DECEMBER 07, 2015: I have begun discussions on the formation of a regional innovation and entrepreneurship hub for Mackay following the announcement of the Coalition Government’s new Innovation and Science Agenda today.A total of $9 million will be allocated to the Incubator Support Programme and this presents a great opportunity for Mackay.I have started discussions with CQUniversity and the Mackay Regional Council about setting up such a hub in Mackay.This would help to turn around the region’s economic woes by encouraging diversification, providing valuable support for new start-ups and hence create new jobs.There is $3 million set aside for the next three consecutive financial years for incubators (hubs) to be set up, and there is funding to get entrepreneur and start-up experts “in residence” at these hubs to provide the necessary advice and information for people with ideas.This is about ensuring start-ups can get access to the resources, knowledge and networks necessary to transform ideas into new businesses.The Innovation and Science Agenda’s range of new initiatives will build on existing measures such as the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, Industry Growth Centres Initiative and the rural R&D system.There are also new initiatives for our young people to get the digital literacy and science, technology and maths skills they need for the jobs of the future.The region’s best resource is its people and we all need to work together to transform our future and unleash our best ideas.More information is available at www.innovation.gov.au