2017-04-11 P&E Agenda Attachment 1 to Item 1 Housing Needs Assessment

Within the ‘accessible, diverse and affordable communities’ theme, the strategy suggests that
Council aim to encourage accessible and affordable spaces and places for people to live, meet
and play, and influence housing affordability by encouraging a diversity of housing opportunities.

Key initiatives under this theme of relevance to the Housing Needs Assessment include that
Council will:

       Plan for an increase in the number of elderly people living independently;
       Advocate for flexible respite opportunities for older frail people and people with a
        disability;
       Undertake a Housing Needs Assessment (the current study) to inform planning and future
        advocacy;
       Work with government agencies, not-for-profit organisations and the business sector to
        explore innovative ways of tackling housing affordability;
       Continue to facilitate public transport, walking and cycling facilities to lessen reliance on
        private vehicles.


2.3.5    Noosa Shire Council Local Economic Plan
The Local Economic Plan for the Noosa Shire was released in 2015 with the aim of broadening the
economic structure of the local economy by “achieving growth in smart industry sectors that offer
high economic value and low environmental impact”.

The economic plan noted that the economic structure of the Noosa Shire is heavily reliant on
tourism, retail and construction. Tourism is identified as a key strength for the region’s economy
and an opportunity for the future, as well as a weakness in that there is a reliance on tourism in
the local economy. While acknowledging that tourism, retail and construction will continue to be
important components of the economy, it emphasises the need for diversification.

With regard to tourism, the plan notes that in the year ending June 2015, tourism contributed an
estimated $700 million into the local economy supported by growth in international and
interstate visitors (but declines in day trip visitors).

Key themes to achieve a strong economy include:

       Industry diversification;
       Effective land use planning;
       Enterprise support;
       Essential infrastructure;
       Skilled and connected businesses and implementation;
       Monitoring and reporting.

Priority industry sectors of competitive advantage identified to support economic growth and
provide employment opportunities are:

       Health and wellness;
       Digital economy;
       Environmental industries;
       Rural enterprise;




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