Theme 2: Fostering Sustainable Economic Growth

A robust economy is at the heart of a thriving community and enables investment in environmental protection. While our remoteness is a key attribute, it also presents challenges for attracting new business and investment. We must also meet the challenges of fierce competition in the tourism sector. Council will partner with industry to build, diversify and promote the Douglas economy. Council will design and deliver infrastructure, strategies and services that support the local economy and businesses.

Outcomes

1

7

Initiatives

4 2

In Progress Cancelled Completed

Goal 1: We will build appropriate infrastructure and deliver services that connect and support businesses.

2.1.1. Ferry Gateway Infrastructure Plan – In Progress Ferry options report to be finalised soon and then workshopped with Council to finalise delivery strategy.

Goal 2: We will work with partners to promote the Shire as the World’s leading sustainable tropical destination and encourage business investment.

2.2.1. Innovation Hub – Cancelled / No longer relevant Progress is being made to fill this gap by a commercial enterprise, and an alternative way forward from Council for this operational plan initiative is being developed.

2.2.2. Continue to Investigate Opportunities in the Recreational Vehicle Strategy – Completed Presented to Ordinary Councill Meeting on 28 September 2021.

2.2.3. Eco-Destination – Completed Upgrade to the new version of criteria is complete. Desktop audit completed in May 2022 and results received. Corrective actions to be undertaken in 2022/23 and Eco Destination program to continue.

Goal 3: We will develop strategies that seek to diversify the Shire’s economic base.

2.3.1. Investigate Alternative Energy Solutions – In Progress Report to be presented to Council in the first quarter of 2022/23.

2.3.2. Economic Development Strategy – In Progress Queensland Small Business Friendly Charter adopted in November 2021. Draft Investment Prospectus will be presented to Council in July 2022. Priority infrastructure list in development with Capital Works Program for 2022/23.

2.3.3. Port Douglas Markets Review – In Progress Will be presented to Councillor workshop in late 2022.