The election campaign period has created several forums soliciting positions or policy from candidates in respect of Economic Development and more particularly SME’s (Small & Medium Enterprise).
It is important to background some issues peculiar to our region and recognise some influences outside our Region that have impacted on this topic.
- 2011 Census data shows that mining activity, construction and agriculture were our biggest employers. The 2016 Census and anecdotal evidence will surely show a contraction in at least 2 of these sectors
- Economic activity is fundamentally influenced by resource commodity prices, prevailing weather conditions in the agricultural sector and building and construction projects both private and public.
- Retail in our smaller communities is declining and Emerald has become a “regional” shopping and business destination.
- Many businesses are closing due to changing spending patterns due to generally lower incomes and broader consumer cautionary spending as the national economy contracts.
- Online activity for goods and services and the presence of large retailers particularly department store concepts have impacted traditional local operators.
SWWCC is fully Australian owned and operated business with head office based in Macquarie Park, Sydney, NSW. SWWCC holds an Australian Telecommunications License and has developed a unique product enabling high speed internet access for regional and remote locations. This company will provide local employment opportunities while working with local IT businesses to maximise the potential of the technology and contribute to the local economy.
Most of you should have received this mail out this week which will be the same way you will receive your ballot paper for the Local Government Elections. In the 2012 elections voter turn out in our region was 66% which was one of the lowest in the State.
Emerald State High School ceremony this morning highlighted an outstanding group of