Regional Cooperation: The Kimberley Regional Group of Councils
Tracks
Plenary 1
| Wednesday, July 23, 2025 |
| 3:15 PM - 3:35 PM |
| Plenary One |
Overview
Paul Rosier, Kimberley Regional Group and Vernon Lawrence, Kimberley Regional Group and Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley
Speaker
Paul Rosair
Executive Officer
Kimberley Regional Group
Regional Cooperation: The Kimberley Regional Group of Councils
Presentation Overview
The Kimberley Regional Group (KRG) of Councils is a collaborative alliance comprising four Kimberley Shires: Broome, Derby West Kimberley, Halls Creek, and Wyndham East Kimberley. United by a shared vision to enhance the region’s diversity and livability, the KRG works to deliver positive social, economic, and cultural outcomes for local communities and the wider world.
This presentation will explore the formation and operations of the KRG, focusing on its role in influencing both state and federal policy. The KRG has become a trusted partner for government, driving strategic initiatives and spearheading projects that create real change in the Kimberley.
Key areas of focus include the KRG’s advocacy on policy agendas such as FBT tax exemptions for housing, community safety, crime prevention, housing management, alcohol and drug issues, emergency management, juvenile justice, and the allocation of Federal Financial Assistance Grants.
The KRG operates as a voluntary, collaborative group under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which allows for quick decision-making and the delivery of projects without the constraints of complex legislative processes. This flexible approach empowers the KRG to effectively address the region's unique challenges.
Through this regional cooperation model, the KRG continues to make a significant and lasting impact on the Kimberley, enhancing the region’s prosperity and improving the quality of life for its people.
This presentation will explore the formation and operations of the KRG, focusing on its role in influencing both state and federal policy. The KRG has become a trusted partner for government, driving strategic initiatives and spearheading projects that create real change in the Kimberley.
Key areas of focus include the KRG’s advocacy on policy agendas such as FBT tax exemptions for housing, community safety, crime prevention, housing management, alcohol and drug issues, emergency management, juvenile justice, and the allocation of Federal Financial Assistance Grants.
The KRG operates as a voluntary, collaborative group under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which allows for quick decision-making and the delivery of projects without the constraints of complex legislative processes. This flexible approach empowers the KRG to effectively address the region's unique challenges.
Through this regional cooperation model, the KRG continues to make a significant and lasting impact on the Kimberley, enhancing the region’s prosperity and improving the quality of life for its people.
Biography
Paul is the Executive Officer for the Regional Capitals Alliance WA (RCAWA) and the Kimberley Regional Group (KRG). He founded NAJA Business Consulting, helping organisations navigate government planning, funding, and approvals. Previously, Paul held senior state government roles, including Director General of the Department of Regional Development and Lands, overseeing the $10.5 billion Royalties for Regions Program. With expertise in regional development, land management, Aboriginal affairs, and more, Paul is the creator of the Property Optimisation and Evaluation Matrix (POEM), improving local government property management across Australia. He is a regular contributor and speaker at National and International Symposiums.
Vernon Lawrence
Secretary - Kimberley Regional Group and CEO - Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley
Kimberley Regional Group and Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley
Regional Cooperation: The Kimberley Regional Group of Councils
Presentation Overview
The Kimberley Regional Group (KRG) of Councils is a collaborative alliance comprising four Kimberley Shires: Broome, Derby West Kimberley, Halls Creek, and Wyndham East Kimberley. United by a shared vision to enhance the region’s diversity and livability, the KRG works to deliver positive social, economic, and cultural outcomes for local communities and the wider world.
This presentation will explore the formation and operations of the KRG, focusing on its role in influencing both state and federal policy. The KRG has become a trusted partner for government, driving strategic initiatives and spearheading projects that create real change in the Kimberley.
Key areas of focus include the KRG’s advocacy on policy agendas such as FBT tax exemptions for housing, community safety, crime prevention, housing management, alcohol and drug issues, emergency management, juvenile justice, and the allocation of Federal Financial Assistance Grants.
The KRG operates as a voluntary, collaborative group under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which allows for quick decision-making and the delivery of projects without the constraints of complex legislative processes. This flexible approach empowers the KRG to effectively address the region's unique challenges.
Through this regional cooperation model, the KRG continues to make a significant and lasting impact on the Kimberley, enhancing the region’s prosperity and improving the quality of life for its people.
This presentation will explore the formation and operations of the KRG, focusing on its role in influencing both state and federal policy. The KRG has become a trusted partner for government, driving strategic initiatives and spearheading projects that create real change in the Kimberley.
Key areas of focus include the KRG’s advocacy on policy agendas such as FBT tax exemptions for housing, community safety, crime prevention, housing management, alcohol and drug issues, emergency management, juvenile justice, and the allocation of Federal Financial Assistance Grants.
The KRG operates as a voluntary, collaborative group under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which allows for quick decision-making and the delivery of projects without the constraints of complex legislative processes. This flexible approach empowers the KRG to effectively address the region's unique challenges.
Through this regional cooperation model, the KRG continues to make a significant and lasting impact on the Kimberley, enhancing the region’s prosperity and improving the quality of life for its people.
Biography
Vernon Lawrence is the Chief Executive Officer of the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley. He initially joined the Shire as Director of Corporate Services before transitioning into his current role.
A Chartered Accountant by profession, Vernon brings a diverse range of experience across various sectors. His background includes working in professional services with Deloitte in Taxation Services, serving at the South African Revenue Service, and acting as Managing Director and shareholder of a privately owned business in the transport service industry. Additionally, he has significant experience in local government.
With extensive expertise in financial management, long-term financial planning, and risk management, Vernon is committed to ensuring the Shire maintains a strong financial position. His priorities include securing sustainable funding for asset management plans and leveraging information technology to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of Shire processes.
