Rockhampton Regional Council through Advance Rockhampton has today released a draft version of the new Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan.
Mayor Tony Williams expresses the importance of these documents, declaring they will shape the economic future of Rockhampton.
"Over the coming 5 years these two documents will guide councils' economic development focus to support growth in Rockhampton."
"Rockhampton already is the Economic Capital of Central Queensland and with a seven-year commitment to economic development through our investment into Advance Rockhampton we want to build on that, creating jobs of the future and ensuring our region continues our progression to becoming a more vibrant, diverse and a progressive place to live, visit and invest."
"Growing Rockhampton's liveability, visitability and investability depends on the future success of this strategy and action plan. I want to see future jobs growth and we know Rockhampton's current and future industries will be the main contributors to jobs and growth across Central Queensland" Mayor Williams said.
Key industry sectors and growth opportunities outlined through community engagement and verified by the economic analysis include:
- Defence
- Irrigated Agriculture
- Coal Mining and mining services
- Non-coal resources
- Renewable Energy
- Transport and Logistics
- Professional Services
- Residential Construction
- Aged Care
- International Education
- The Visitor Economy
- Major Events
As the region's lead economic development, Advance Rockhampton has been working diligently to bring these documents to fruition and is now seeking feedback from the community.
"The Rockhampton Region Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan (2023-2028), maps out a vision for growth and economic prosperity that will drive our community forward, grow industry opportunities and create future employment across the region. The region is currently home to 82,000 people with a $5.5B economy supporting 36,000 jobs – by committing to this strategy and actively pursuing opportunities the Rockhampton region has the potential to become a $20B economy and home to 148,000 people by 2041," Advance Rockhampton Executive manager, Greg Bowden said.
"Residents, key stakeholders and the local business community are invited to share their thoughts on the documents to ensure they meet the expectations of the broader community."
The approach taken in the strategy is to focus on five key pillars to achieve the economic mission including:
- Future Jobs & Investment Attraction
- Infrastructure and Future Growth
- Regional Promotion & Major Events
- Regional Collaboration & Partnerships
- Talent Retention and Attraction
Within each of the pillars there are goals and outcomes that are required to be achieved to set the region on a successful future trajectory.
The public consultation will be managed by Advance Rockhampton through their website, social media and will be advertised in local newspapers.
To have your say head to the Advance Rockhampton Website from tomorrow https://www.advancerockhampton.com.au/RREDS-RREAP
Consultation is open from November 23 and closes December 14.
