Aim for a $33bn powerhouse

Council unveils high tech plans for growth

By Kirra Livingstone

THE Sunshine Coast Council has endorsed three annual reports, with the Regional Economic Development Strategy (REDS) report revealing a gross regional product (GRP) of $23.73 billion for the last financial year. 

The reports, including the Community Strategy, Environment and Liveability Strategy, and REDS, were approved at the ordinary meeting on October 24, highlighting progress and future goals. 

The GRP has seen a 72 per cent increase over the past 11 years, with the Council on track to achieve its goal of a $33bn economy by 2033. 

Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the council would be focusing on five strategic pathways to achieve the growth projections: Leadership, sustainability and equity, business retention and expansion, and investment and growth. 

Cr Natoli described the three strategies as the foundation of the Council’s long-term vision to make the Sunshine Coast Australia’s top region. 

“Through the Regional Economic Development Strategy, we are committed to building an innovative, adaptive, resilient, and climate-ready economy that strengthens our region now and into the future,” she said. 

Other highlights from the REDS report include creating 107,283 local jobs in high-value industries including aviation and aerospace, clean tech, and tourism. 

The Community Strategy also introduces a new action plan addressing key community concerns such as housing affordability, cost of living, and homelessness.

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