Swan Hill Rural City Council is investing in new data tools to better understand how people spend money across the region and identify opportunities to support local businesses and attract investment.
Using Spendmapp and CityCompass, Council will be able to see spending trends, visitor activity and areas where more goods and services could be provided locally. The information will help Council work with businesses to encourage growth, create jobs and build a stronger local economy.
Mayor Stuart King said the initiative aligns with Council's Economic Development Strategy and will provide valuable insights to guide future economic growth, investment and decision-making across the region.
"A strong local economy starts with understanding where the opportunities are.
"These tools will help us support local businesses, encourage people to spend locally and attract new investment that benefits our communities," Cr King said.
Although the municipality continues to grow, Council knows that more people are shopping online or spending money outside the region.
Council's Acting Director Planning and Development, Dennis Hovenden, said the new data would help Council better understand those trends and where opportunities exist.
"Spendmapp shows us where money is being spent and where we're missing opportunities to keep more of that spending in our local economy.
"It will help us identify gaps in the market, support existing businesses to grow and encourage new businesses and investment right across the municipality," Mr Hovenden said.
As part of the initiative, Council will also publish Monthly Economic Insights Reports, giving businesses, investors and the community a regular snapshot of spending trends, visitor activity and how the local economy is performing.
