Non-metropolitan regions across the Western world face a number of complex developmental problems, including population decline, dependence on a narrow range of industries, outdated infrastructure and, often, a weakened political position. This unit is concerned with identifying the particular economic development problems confronting non-metropolitan regions today, and understanding their causes. Via a comparative analysis of regional development issues in Australia and Canada, GEPL445 explores the factors underlying regional performance and, in doing so, teaches a range of practical diagnostic skills and techniques. In addition, students learn a set of strategies and approaches that can be applied by governments and non-government organisations in order to foster successful local and regional development.