About the project

During 2022 and 2023 we sought seeking feedback on the draft Economic Development Framework that was considered prior to being presented to Council for consideration at the November Council Meeting.

The framework centres around input from business and the community about how to deliver economic growth to the region and recognising the role of the natural environment in underpinning our economy.

It is shaped around four pillars: Living and working, natural world and the visitor economy, innovation and industry diversification and place shaping. The Economic Development Framework 2030 clearly states how Council will continue to drive investment, harnessing the region’s strengths and the skills of the growing community.

The Economic Development Framework is made up of several driving principles, including:

• Environment is our economy

Celebrate the interdependence between a healthy environment and economic wellbeing for Bass Coast.

• Inclusive economic growth and harnessing the power of community

Recognise economic prosperity is achieved when all members of society have the opportunity to participate and collaborate.

• Gender equality

Proactively drive equal opportunities, rights, and representation.

• Enable self-determination

Recognise and support the inherent rights of First Nations peoples to make decisions and determine their own future.

• Embrace our story

Celebrate our Bass Coast, the intrinsic values and history of place.

• Drive innovation and excellence

Foster a culture of continuous improvement, embrace creativity and disruption in the pursuit of excellence.

Annual actions will be developed prior to each financial year and presented to Council, taking into account changing economic conditions and the needs of the community, with a report presented each financial year.

View the adopted document here.

Development process

The first phase involves deep data gathering to explore the high-level challenges and opportunities for Bass Coast. We identify and contextualize the actual problem or opportunity.

This phase is supported by collecting information through business and industry surveys and the completion of a State of the Shire report. The data is the evidence base to inform discussion regarding the future framework.

Engagement Opportunity

  • Targeted stakeholder engagement in small groups online and in-person across the region from September to October 2022
  • Community can provide input and feedback through the open survey on Engage Bass Coast

This phase will examine key data and learnings gathered during the discover phase. We will filter through information and elaborate on the different components in the form of a Discussion Paper.

Engagement Opportunity

  • We are seeking feedback on the narrative captured in the Discussion Paper
  • The Discussion Paper will be published on Engage Bass Coast and will be distributed to those that have engaged with the project to date or registered via Engage Bass Coast.

The draft Framework will be created during this phase following feedback from the Discussion Paper. The draft Framework will be reflective of key findings in earlier stages and aspirational in nature.

Following the public exhibition period and summary of feedback the Framework will be presented to Council for consideration.

Engagement opportunity

  • The draft Framework will go on public exhibition, Council will seek feedback from the general community, targeted stakeholders and those that have engaged with the project to date.
  • There will be a series of community drop-in sessions across the municipality.

This phase involves the implementation of the Framework and delivering on actions identified over the next 4 years. A twelve-month action plan will be created each year.

Importantly as part of this phase, it will include reporting on progress including achievements and initiatives we do not progress.

Engagement Opportunity

  • Targeted stakeholder engagement and where appropriate broader community engagement of priority projects and initiatives.
  • A yearly report card will be produced and presented through Engage Bass Coast.