Capes Region Economic Development Strategy

Submitted by City of Busselton on 30 May, 2008 - 16:20.

The Shires of Augusta Margaret River and Busselton have embarked together to develop a Capes Region Economic Development Strategy.  The aim of the Strategy is to secure the prosperity of the Capes Region by enhancing economic opportunities and ensuring that council planning policies and development strategies support sustainable development.  A consultation process is underway with business and community stakeholders.

Message from CEOs

These are prosperous times in our Shires and we are experiencing high rates of population and economic growth.  This represents both an opportunity and a challenge, as we value our lifestyle in the Cape to Cape region and want to protect those things that make it unique. 

At the same time, if we are to secure our future prosperity we need to identify economic opportunities, and what our Shire Councils need to do in respect of our planning policies and development strategies to help drive them. The Strategy is being developed through an industry cluster approach to regional development.  Clusters are groups of companies and related organisations that collaborate to grow their business.  Utilising clusters allows a collaborative and team approach for businesses, regions and interest groups to develop quality, innovation, greater speed and critical mass which assists in resolving practical issues like training, infrastructure and procurement.

Local leadership and participation is essential to the success of the Strategy and we encourage and invite active participation by business people and community members.

James Trail                                         
Chief Executive Officer                          
Augusta Margaret River Shire Council       

Andrew Macnish
Chief Executive Officer
City of Busselton

Capes Region Business Confidence Survey 16 October 2008

All businesses in the Cape to Cape Region are invited to participate in the Capes Region Business Confidence Survey.  This survey is sponsored by the Shires of Busselton and Augusta Margaret River as part of development of an economic development strategy for the Capes Region. 

The survey will provide valuable information about the current trading conditions for business, their expectations and what conditions they need for growth.  The results of the survey will also build a picture of linkages between businesses in the Capes Region and with other regions.

The survey is being conducted by economics firm, ACIL Tasman.

 To complete the survey, please go to http://www.aciltasman.com.au/ and follow the links.  Please contact Sally Lee at ACIL Tasman with any queries on 9449 9600.

The survey period closes on 31 October 2008.