INTRODUCTION MOST SUSTAINABLE REGION Council’s vision, to be Australia’s most sustainable region – vibrant, green and diverse, sets the agenda clearly for the development of the Sunshine Coast economy. The importance of the economy to the Sunshine Coast community was reflected in the process of developing Council’s Corporate Plan 2009-2014, where the achievement of a robust economy was identified as being the highest priority for the region. The overall purpose of this Economic Development Strategy is to enable the creation of wealth, prosperity and jobs in line with the Council’s vision of being Australia’s most sustainable region.
Corporate Plan Priorities Through its community endorsed Corporate Plan process, Council resolved that:
“Our quality of life is dependent on a strong economy and in planning for the future we need to be aware of the constraints and opportunities arising from global financial conditions.” To address the development of the local economic and business environment, five emerging priorities were agreed: 1.1 A broad economic base Diversifying the economy to enable the creation of more jobs in a wider base of economic sectors, together with encouraging the growth in employment and output of individual businesses. 1.2. Support for local businesses Training and development to enhance the capacity of small to medium sized businesses, providing the right framework and legislative environment that allows businesses to operate without the burden of over regulation. 1.3. Infrastructure for economic growth Ensuring that the right infrastructure is in place through targeted development of land aimed at ensuring business growth, and improvements to soft infrastructure. 1.4. A sustainable tourism industry As the main industry it is important that we continue to grow the volume and value of tourism, which also generates business for all the other sectors of the economy. 1.5. A strong rural sector The retention of productive capacity is vital to the future sustainability of the region as well as contributing to the lifestyle and appearance of the region.
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SUNSHINE COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL
