A new retail precinct is underway in Rupanyup, with designs released today for the project that will breathe new life into the region.
Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes today visited the site to view designs for the precinct.
Last year Rupanyup faced losing its only supermarket, a move which did not reflect the needs of the local community or the population of the district.
The Andrews Labor Government has invested $500,000 to support a community-led plan for a purpose-built shopping centre with a supermarket, café, pharmacy, council service desk and open spaces for events.
The Yarriambiack Shire Council and the Minyip Rupanyup Finance Committee has worked together to get the innovative community project off the ground, raising further funds to make the initiative a reality.
Rupanyup is home to Australia's first community bank, and the same team behind its success is driving this project.
There has been significant public consultation on the designs, with a project manager now appointed and building works set to begin in the coming weeks.
The precinct will be up and running by the end of the year, generating up to eight full-time jobs in the town.
As noted by Minister for Regional Development Jaclyn Symes
"Rupanyup's exciting new retail precinct is a great example of what a community can achieve by coming together with innovative ideas, and we're proud to have provided further support to get it off the ground."
"Like many small rural communities Rupanyup is facing the challenges of a declining population and retail sector –but this town is one of Australia's strongest and most active communities, and it's wonderful to see their fantastic solution go from strength to strength."
