Whittlesea council is laying the groundwork for a decade of prosperity with the development of its Economic Growth Strategy for 2026-2036.
Building on its existing Strong Local Economy 2022-2026 plan, the new strategy aims to guide Whittlesea’s growth in line with the community’s long-term vision.
Whittlesea sits among one of Australia’s fastest-growing municipalities, with its population expected to surge by more than 40 per cent by 2040.
While around 2000 new jobs have been created annually over the past five years, employment growth has notably struggled to keep pace with the fast-growing population demands.
Whittlesea’s council has prepared a series of discussion papers focusing on four key areas in unlocking business growth and innovation, building jobs, skills and training, driving investment, infrastructure and industry, and growing economies through culture and connection all in an attempt to address challenges connected to growing population and employment demands.
More than 60 stakeholders from sectors in business, government, education, health and real estate have reportedly contributed through focus groups and interviews, helping identify the key opportunities and challenges shaping Whittlesea’s economic future.
Community consultation will reportedly open to the public in mid November, where residents are encouraged to register their interest to help shape the economic growth strategy plan.
For information: www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au.
