Council’s draft 10-year Economic Development Strategy is now out for community consultation. The draft strategy sets out a bold new direction for the region’s economic future.
The strategy prioritises purposeful growth, regenerative principles and resilient communities. The strategy was developed in collaboration with the business community, subject matter experts and Yarra Ranges locals.
The first stage of engagement, undertaken in 2021, asked residents and businesses for their ideas on how to facilitate economic growth, strengthen business resilience, create jobs, attract investment and improve liveability in the Yarra Ranges.
The resulting draft strategy is now open for feedback.
Yarra Ranges Mayor, Cr Jim Child, said that strong strategic planning for the next 10 years would be crucial to economic growth in the Yarra Ranges.
“The economic conditions that enabled us to flourish in the past are changing, with new technology, climate change and global trends having impacts on our businesses and community,” Cr Child said.
“We’re setting out to build a sustainable economy, one that not only meets the needs of our community, but also our environment.”
“We feel this draft strategy sets a clear vision for how we’ll continue to regenerate the Yarra Ranges and ensure that our businesses become more resilient and able to thrive in the face of change.”
“This draft document has been shaped by a great depth of local expertise, so I encourage our community to take a look and let us know if we’ve captured everything they wish to see and to let us know if we’ve missed anything.”
“I look forward to working with our community to make these goals a reality.”
Residents can visit Council’s online community engagement platform, Shaping Yarra Ranges, to learn more about the Economic Development Strategy, see the Action Plan and share their feedback on the draft.
There are also two webinars for residents and businesses to join, and Council’s Economic Development Officers will be available at the Civic Centre, and Community Links for face-to-face engagement opportunities. You can find details of dates, times and locations here.
Visit Shaping Yarra Ranges to have your say.
