Wanneroo centre for economic development: City leading the way

The City of Wanneroo’s Economic Development Strategy ‘Strategic Economic Growth 2016-2021’ was adopted by council at Tuesday’s council meeting, with the document aiming to consolidate support for local business, stimulate investment, drive economic growth and diversify our economic base.

With a population of 195,000, Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said it was crucial to create more local jobs for the rapidly increasing number of residents.

“Currently the City has 11,600 local businesses and 53,000 local jobs,” Mayor Roberts said. “On average 1,600 new jobs are created within the City each year, however with our growing population we need to be adding another 2,800 jobs annually, which is a huge challenge, but achievable.”

The strategy outlines five key economic development program areas: industry diversification; employment locations; investment attraction and advocacy; business support and workforce development, and; regional economic development.

“The City has a very important role to play in economic development through our ability to influence and coordinate key elements that drive economic growth,” Mayor Roberts said. “The big three industries in Wanneroo are construction, manufacturing and retail, but over the next 20 years Wanneroo will aim to become a leader in agribusiness, clean technology and advanced manufacturing and engineering – it is so exciting to be part of this change.”

The Neerabup Industrial Area is also highlighted as a key focus area, with the potential to provide 20,000 jobs, while other challenges outlined include the provision of critical transport infrastructure and retention of land for employment purposes.

“By working with key partners such as State and Federal governments, the Wanneroo Business Association, the local business community and other local governments, we have the ability to put our region forward as an economic powerhouse and provide the necessary foundations for our rapidly expanding population.”