COVID, the 2022 floods and uncertain economic times have all impacted business and the community and with lessons learnt from the last five years, Council now has a new Byron Shire Economic Strategy providing a roadmap for the next 10 years.
"This strategy is about shaping the kind of economy we want for the future. One that is creative, sustainable and grounded in the wellbeing of our community and environment," Byron Shire Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye said.
"We need to keep the environment, our residents and our Indigenous custodians at the heart of the Economic Plan. Real progress depends on collaboration; Council cannot do this alone.
"Those who care for Country and contribute to our tourism, creative and agricultural sectors are best placed to guide the way forward."
"Reaching this milestone has been a long journey, and we sincerely thank the community and industry for their patience, commitment, and active engagement over the past five years," Mayor Ndiaye said.
Developed through extensive engagement with stakeholders and informed by previous strategies, the updated Economic Strategy sets a clear vision for the next decade, outlining priority areas and flexible Action Plans to drive investment and collaboration across Council, industry, and the community.
The Strategy is supported by Action Plans targeting key economic focus areas for Byron Shire:
- Business and industry
- Destination management and the visitor economy
- Events.
These 'living' plans will be further developed in collaboration with the Economic Activation Group (EAG) with membership including chambers of commerce and other local businesses, arts, tourism, and relevant government agencies.
"This group brings Council, business and industry together to shape a future that cares for Country and strengthens our communities.," Mayor Ndiaye said.
"Two of the key features of this new strategy are the creation of an economic baseline to be the foundation of tracking progress, as well as plans to develop relationships with academic institutions to develop a framework for best practice and research," she said.
The Economic Strategy and Action Plans are on Council's website. Expressions of interest for the Economic Activation Group will be open in early December.
