$200,000 for economic growth initiatives

Noosa Mayor Tony Wellington says Council will invest at least $200,000 into new economic development initiatives this financial year. The focus will be on strengthening the resilience of the local economy.

$50,000 will be available for economic development grants to support projects that encourage business growth and development at the grass roots level.

“These include training programs to upskill local businesspeople, as well as initiatives to help create stronger business networks,” the Mayor said.

“Council will also invest in a campaign to attract new talent and business investment to the shire, filling identified skills gaps.

“We’ll be targeting the sectors we’re committed to growing,” the Mayor said. “These include health and wellness, the digital sector, rural enterprise, environmental industries, education and training, creative industries and professional services.”

Another economic development priority is the opening of the new Peregian Beach Digital Hub.

“We’ll be appointing a manager to run the facility. The Hub will provide a purpose-built environment for use by technology sector businesses. Hopefully both established and start-up businesses will utilise the space. We’ve already had very strong interest shown by a range of prospective tenants.

“The 2017/18 budget includes more business connection events, innovation programs, and support for business leadership groups. Our Economic Development team are both adventurous and seemingly tireless.

“This budget will deliver on Council’s commitment to the local economy as contained in our Local Economic Plan that we developed in consultation with the community,” the Mayor said.

The Local Economic Plan was adopted in late 2015 with a focus on diversifying the economy by supporting key growth sectors.

5 July 2017