First Nations economic development

Regional leaders use the Regional Economic Development Strategy to look at new ideas that will deliver a stronger economy for the Sunshine Coast.

The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia’s most desirable regions, renowned for its natural attributes and diverse, vibrant communities. Like many regional economies however, the Sunshine Coast has faced a number of challenges in the last five years as a result of volatile global financial conditions.

This has inspired regional leaders to look at new ideas that will deliver a stronger economy for the Sunshine Coast and create a more prosperous community.

Regional Economic Development Strategy 2013-2033 provides a 20 year vision and blueprint for sustainable economic growth. Its goals and aspirations encompass and benefit all areas of the Sunshine Coast region from the rural hinterland to its urban coastal areas.

The strategy has been developed by regional business, industry and local government leaders and informed through valuable contributions from Sunshine Coast residents and community organisations.

The strategy seeks to ensure the region realises its full potential with a confident future and as an active participant in the global economy which in turn will deliver the lifestyle and opportunities for local residents and businesses alike. To do this, the region will pursue five essential pathways:

  1. Leadership, collaboration and identity
  2. Capital investment
  3. High value industries
  4. Local to global connections
  5. Investment in talent and skills.

The strategy aims to strengthen and extend the construction, retail and tourism industries all of which will remain significant elements of the regional economy for the foreseeable future.

The region will also vigorously seek new investment opportunities associated with seven high-value industries:

  • Health and wellbeing
  • Education and research
  • Tourism, sport and leisure
  • Knowledge industries and professional services
  • Agribusiness
  • Clean technologies
  • Aviation and aerospace.

All of these industries have the potential to generate higher paying, enduring employment opportunities on the back of the region’s ‘game changer’ projects: the development of the Sunshine Coast University Hospital and the Maroochydore City Centre; upgrade of the Bruce Highway; and expansion of the Sunshine Coast Airport and the University of the Sunshine Coast.

First Nations investment

In today's rapidly changing world First Nations businesses and economic communities are self-determining, resilient and diverse industries in themselves. There is high demand for access to First Nations knowledge, cultural tourism, community development practices and environmental practices/partnerships in the smart economy.

Council supports and encourages First Nations and ally investment through its Business ProgramCommunity Grants Program and partnerships with First Nations through Native Title and agreement making processes.

Council also supports increased First Nations supplier diversity through its end to end business procurement.

Related links

More information

Customer enquiries relating to the region’s Traditional Custodians, council’s Reconciliation Action Plan or other First Nations projects supported by council, can be emailed to the First Nations Partnerships team.