2015-11-10 - P&O Agenda - Item 18, Attach 1&2 - Draft Noosa Shire Local Economic Plan

1. Executive Summary
    Noosa is recognised as one of Australia’s most desirable places to live, work and visit, thanks to its
    outstanding beauty, mild subtropical weather and enviable lifestyle opportunities. A strong economy
    is necessary to underpin and sustain these attributes. This Plan looks beyond tourism-driven
    economic growth and employment, towards a more resilient and diversified economy. Furthermore,
    it complements existing community values whilst considering opportunities for careers and
    businesses to flourish.
    The aim of the Noosa Shire Local Economic Plan (the Plan), is to broaden the economic structure of
    the local economy by achieving growth in ‘smart’ industry sectors that offer high economic value and
    low environmental impact. Particularly those that export outside of the Shire and align with our
    environmental and social values.
    Noosa’s economy relies significantly on the tourism, retail and construction sectors and is home to
    approximately 7,400 businesses which are mainly small or micro businesses. It is also home to a
    range of very successful entrepreneurs and skilled businesspeople.
    In line with the rest of the nation, Noosa has an ageing population. In 2011 the median age for the
    Shire was 46 years compared to 38 and 36 years in the SEQ Region and the State respectively.
    Three of the top 5 employment sectors in Noosa are primarily geared towards population and
    tourism driven industries. They are Retail, Accommodation & Foods Services, and Construction. The
    Retail and Accommodation and Food Services sectors also offer the lowest wages, and this combined
    with high proportion of part-time work in the region sees Noosa Shire report a median household
    income below that of the SEQ Region and the State.
    The Shire has an unemployment rate of 7.3%. Gross Regional Product was $2.6 billion in 2013-14,
    growing 2.5 % per annum over the last 5 years which is above that of the SEQ Region at 2.2% and
    2.1% for the State.
    This Plan identifies industry diversification, effective land use planning, enterprise support, essential
    infrastructure, skilled and connected businesses and implementation, monitoring and reporting as
    key themes to achieve diversification. Healthcare and wellness, digital economy, environmental
    industries, rural enterprise, creative industries and professional services are recognised as priority
    industry sectors of competitive advantage that will support economic growth and provide
    employment oppprtunities.
    This Plan was developed in line with Councils Sustainability principles and in collaboration with the
    community. Community opinion was sought via two public workshops and through Council's on-line
    community engagement portal, Your Say Noosa. A Project Focus Group made up of representatives
    from the community, business and industry reviewed information obtained at community
    consultations. The Group then identified gaps, and contributed, tested and prioritised ideas.
    The delivery of this Plan will be the result of collaborative projects undertaken in partnership with
    business and industry, government agencies, as well as business representative groups and
    organisations. An annual Action Plan will be developed to guide implementation of this Plan as a
    part of Councils operational planning and budget process.




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