Nillumbik Shire Council has endorsed the exhibition of the draft Economic Development Strategy that will provide a plan for the local economy over the next 10 years.

The community is now invited to have their say on the draft strategy that aims to strengthen the economy and support local job growth through a range of initiatives.

Council endorsed the exhibition of the draft strategy at its ordinary meeting on Tuesday (Jan. 28).

Mayor Cr Karen Egan said Council wanted to support local businesses to grow and thrive.

“We are 100 per cent committed to improving and enhancing the business services provided,” Cr Egan said.

“We are already seeing this in the array of business events offered, including the very first women’s networking event in March.”

Cr Egan said Nillumbik was in a good position to take advantage of the population growth in neighbouring municipalities.

“Our scenic natural environment, range of leisure activities and lifestyle businesses, our thriving arts community, plus our prime location, place us in a position to capture the visitor market,” Cr Egan said.

The four objectives of the draft strategy are:
• Improve economic development practices to assist local businesses
• Create vibrant activity centres and employment precincts in Eltham and Diamond Creek
• Facilitate economically and environmentally sustainable use of land within the Shire’s green wedge
• Showcase Nillumbik’s visitor, recreation and cultural economy.

Nillumbik Council will implement actions based around each of these objectives in collaboration with independent work and strategic industry partnerships. This action plan is in the draft strategy.

Three drop-in information sessions will be held where staff will be available to answer questions about the draft strategy.

Session one: Monday, March 2, 4pm-8pm. Eltham Library, Panther Place, Eltham

Session two: Wednesday, March 11, 4pm-8pm. Hurstbridge Hub, 50 Graysharps Rd, Hurstbridge

Session three: Thursda , March 12, 4pm-8pm. St Andrews Community Centre, 35 Caledonia St, St Andrews

To have your say on the draft strategy, go to https://participate.nillumbik.vic.gov.au/ecodev

Consultation will be open until 5pm Friday, March 20.

• For more information email business@nillumbik.vic.gov.au or phone 9433 3128.