The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) says the business hub initiative put forward by the Torres Shire Council (TSC) is a positive step in the development of commercial opportunities in the region.

A TSRA grant of $150,000 was provided to the TSC for a planning and design documentation project for a Torres Strait Tourism Information and Business Centre.

The TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, said the establishment of a centre for the Torres Strait region would provide employment opportunities for indigenous individuals and businesses.

“A centre as proposed by the TSC would provide information to visitors and local residents on the Torres Strait region such as where to stay, shop eat and what cultural tourism packages were available,” Mr Stephen said.

“A vital part of economic development in the region is to promote of local businesses and the services available, and a place to educate visitors about the Torres Strait experience would greatly help this.

“I congratulate the TSC in putting this initiative forward and look forward to working with them and appointed consultants Kleinhardt in getting the project to the next stage.”

The funding was provided through the TSRA’s Economic Development Programme Area.