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PRIME MINISTER
STATEMENT BY THE PRIME MINISTER, THE HON P J KEATING MP
NATIONAL STRATEGIES CONFERENCE FINDINGS c
Today I wish to announce the publication of Shaping Our Future, the
proceedings of the National Strategies Conference of last year.
The themes emerging from this benchmark review of our long-term goals
show that the priorities and concerns of Australians are recognised and are
being acted upon by this Government.
The necessary strategic direction for shaping a rewarding future for Australia
is being firmly set in place by our past, present and future policies.
I commissioned the National Strategies Conference convened on November
24-25 1994 by the new Economic Planning Advisory Commission ( EPAC)
with the aim of defining national ambitions and opportunities, and considering
long-term strategies.
According to the EPAC overview, a basic vision for Australia that emerged
was of a country that is both creative and productive and inclusive and
ecologically sustainable. There was broad agreement on these as national
goals, and these are endorsed as goals by this Government.
Also according to EPAC, key future priorities for the achievement of these
goals were defined at the Conference as the following.
" consolidation and enhancement of Australia's emergence as a Global
Nation; further development of Australia's capacities as an Innovative Nation in
each of the economic, social and environmental spheres;
reinvigoration of the commitment to a Sustainable Australia through
ecologically sensitive activities and policy development; and
redefinition of a Social Charter to provide for social security, personal
and community development and civic engagement'. 4647
The proceedings of the Conference evoked a great sense of optimism. Many
participants spoke of Australia's great potential and opportunity. Australia
was seen as having the promise to be a role model for other countries. For
young Australians this is the most important message of all.
CANBERRA 9 February 1995
For further information on the Conference contact Glenn Withers, Director
EPAC, or Lynda Tin, Executive Manager, National Strategies Task Force,
( 06) 270 2444.
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