THE Northern Rivers has been named 9th worst economic region in...

THE Northern Rivers has been named 9th worst economic region in Australia with 22% of the population on benefits.  

http://www.northernstar.com.au/news/northern-rivers-9th-worst-economic-region-nsw/2672320/

The Australian Local Government Association research found the average Northern Rivers household had $609,000 in wealth and assets in 2015 - up from $550,000 in 2012.

The average Australian household's wealth was estimated at $713,000, with Sydney's Eastern Beaches figure reaching the highest amount at $1.73 million.  Employed residents in the Northern Rivers earned on average $38.40 per hour and worked 32.1 hours a week.  But the unemployment rate has reached 7.6%, compared to 6.5% in 2013 and 6.9% in 2010.  The number of Northern Rivers residents receiving benefits is also on the rise, reaching 22.1% in 2015 - up from 20.9% in 2013 and 19.6% in 2010.  The research found the average mortgage burden for homes in the region is 37.2% of the dwelling's value, with homes worth an average of $383,000.

Unemployment, low incomes and lack of a future has led to an Ice epidemic in the Northern Rivers

http://www.northernstar.com.au/news/casino-ice-addict-warns-destroys-life/2646522/

And a record increase in domestic violence across the area:

http://www.northernstar.com.au/news/surge-in-domestic-violence/2610684/

What the NR needs is a new industry that can provide jobs and an economic future for its young people.  But wait a minute the NR DID have an emerging industry that did just that.  Metgasco poured $120 million into the local economy and had a track record of hiring and training locals and placing work with local businesses.

What a shame to see so much potential for a real future for the region p****ssed away over a misinformation campaign driven by green politics and fueled by fear and ignorance.