The City of Busselton, in association with key stakeholders, is preparing a new Economic Development Strategy.
This important planning document will outline key strategies to ensure sustainable long-term growth across the region for the next five years and beyond.
It comes on the back of the newly released Economic and Demographic Profile, which captures population movement, growth projections and industry trends in the Busselton Local Government area.
The profile provides an economic snapshot of the region and is an important reference tool for planners, businesses and developers across both the private and government sector.
Workshops to commence development of a new strategy have been held with representatives from local business, the chambers of commerce and industry in both Dunsborough and Busselton, the local tourism association; government agencies and community representatives.
The aim of the workshops was to identify current and future economic drivers and brainstorm ways to capitalise on these trends in order to achieve future economic returns to the community.
Once compiled, the Economic Development Strategy will inform the economic and business development policies, projects and initiatives of the City of Busselton, along with other stakeholder organisations in government, private industry and the community.
The strategy will focus on Local Government’s role in shaping local economic development and consider regional strategies. The City can partner with the Shire of Augusta Margaret River through the auspices Capes Regional Organisation of Councils (CapeROC).
The Economic Development Strategy is part of a broader suite of high level plans that underpin the City’s approach to resource allocation and community service.
Director of Community and Commercial Services, Naomi Searle said that the need for a strategy for economic growth is an identified community priority.
“The City consulted extensively with residents and businesses during the development of the Community Strategic Plan review earlier this year.
“Throughout this, we were given a very clear message that residents want and expect Council to develop workable strategies for a strong local economy that sustains and attracts existing and new business, industry and employment opportunities. This is what we intend to do.”
The Economic and Demographic Profile is available on the City’s website.
