Invest Region

INVEST CAPRICORN COAST REGION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

Bill Ludwig Mayor Livingstone Shire Council

As one of the faster-growing detailed strategic initiatives and supporting activities that, in conjunction with enabling projects, will facilitate areas outside the southern future economic growth. corner, the Capricorn Coast While Council has a critical role to play as both a ‘champion‘ and facilitator of economic growth, the region offers unrivalled successful delivery of a plan of this scope and magnitude investment and commercial can only be achieved in partnership, and with collective input from every business and industry sector. These opportunities, as well as premier sectors must include local business, tourism, service lifestyle options. Importantly, our delivery, construction, primary production and resource industries. Extensive engagement with the community region is well-positioned with the and all sectors was undertaken in the development of critical infrastructure required this plan. to service a diverse and growing It is equally critical that our EDP has input and support from all tiers of government to ensure that, where economy. necessary, our plan is as closely aligned as possible with current and future regional, state and national economic The Invest Capricorn Coast Region Economic development strategic initiatives, many of which have Development Plan (EDP) documents our current been considered and referenced in the EDP. economic status, our assets, opportunities and future goals. The primary aim of the plan is to provide a Council is fully committed to taking a continuing roadmap that links these key elements together with proactive role in working collaboratively and

Version 1.0 2018 Council’s commitment to theon-goingdevelopment opportunities. long-termthat in-turngenerate job will creation further catalyst formuch-needed attracting private investment infrastructure for , isproviding the toGovernment provide enabling andwater power trunk which includesthecommitment from theQueensland fourmillion Thisfundingsuccess, inthepast years. and fundingcommitments totalling more than$130 and Australian governments major andleveraged grants theQueensland with strategicpartnerships has forged through major well-targeted project delivery, Council By playing apro-active growth role economic indriving • • • • • • • including: pipeline enabling delivered,key orinthe projects being economic projects. Thesuccessofthisapproach isevidentwith EDPinitiatives ofidentified major andassociated delivery to facilitate and,where appropriate, implement the theprivateconstructively with andgovernment sector Panorama Drive strategiclinkroad. grounds; and andEmu Park Multi-sports Barmaryee Causeway Lake Masterplan redevelopment Station Quarter, theYeppoon Railway Precinct Precincts Emu ofANZAC Park Centenary and Foreshore Innovation andCommunity Resilience Hub’) (‘The The Centre ofExcellence for Management, Disaster Centre Revitalisation the multi-faceted Foreshore andTown full potential. inenabling to uscollectively ourregion’s realise part vital Youreconomies. play inputwill andvalued a support from whichbase andregional to ourlocal grow both focus onbuilding astronger more andresilient vibrant Plan helpenableEconomic Development will usallto forward theInvest Region Coast Looking Capricorn management andcommunity resilience. significantly study options inthefieldofdisasterexpand development foster will education andtraining andAustralian governments, this Local, Community Resilience Hub’). (‘The by Jointly funded Excellence for Management, Disaster Innovation and million theconstructionofa$6.225 TheCentrewith of management, education andtrainingopportunities, disaster role isalsotakingCouncil insupporting alead establishment enterprises. ofnew anddiversified our rapidlygrowing population,andfacilitate the developments more-than-adequatelyboth will service onlyminutes frompositioned Yeppoon’s towncentre, retail, commercial andindustrial hub. Strategically into region asignificant Coast transitioning theCapricorn Homemaker Centre playCoast will apivotal role in aswell astheestablishmentbeyond, oftheCapricorn commercial developments over and thenext decade Park, which cater will Industry for innovative stages ofTheGatewayof further Business and Livingstone Shire Council Mayor Ludwig Bill

3 Invest Capricorn Coast Region Our Identity: CAPRICORN COAST REGION

We are a region of lifestyle, diversity, sustainability, innovation and untapped opportunities. We are driven and future focused. We embrace the opportunity to determine our own future. The Capricorn Coast region is a popular tourism destination and a thriving community in a region full of potential and possibilities for future business, industry and the community.

This is the Capricorn Coast region. 5 Invest Capricorn Coast Region

OUR GOAL:

A diverse, strong, innovative and sustainable local economy providing employment and business Coast Region Capricorn opportunities for current and future generations. Invest

7 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Acronyms 9

Capricorn Coast Region 10

Economic Context 14

Strength and Opportunities 18

Strengths 18

Opportunities 20

Stakeholder Engagement 26

Economic Development Plan Overview 28

Economic Development Plan Strategic Initiatives 30

Local Business and Industry Development 31

Investment Attraction 35

Technology and Innovation 38

Monitoring and Tracking Action Plan Progress 40

Enabling Projects 42

Working in Partnership 52 – TradeTIQ – and Investment Queensland SAF and CentralWest RDAFCW Development –Regional Fitzroy LSC –Livingstone Shire Council Manufacturing, Infrastructure andPlanning ofStateDSDMIP -Department Development, andthe CommonwealthDevelopment Games Tourism ofInnovation, DITID -Department Industry Works ofHousing andPublic DHPW –Department and Training Business Small ofEmployment, DESBT -Department CE –Capricorn Enterprise CCC –Capricornia ofCommerce Chamber ATO Initiative ASMTI -Australian Singapore MilitaryTraining ADF – A cronyms –Singapore Armed Forces –AustralianTax Office 9 Advancing the Capricorn Coast Region CAPRICORN COAST REGION

The Capricorn Coast region encompasses Livingstone • Picturesque volcanic plug and mountain-backed rural Shire in at the southern end of environments the . The Capricorn Coast is a region • Hosting state and national sporting and major leisure of lifestyle, diversity, sustainability, innovation and events such as Yeppoon Triathlon, and CQUniversity untapped opportunities. We are driven and future Village Festival focused. We embrace the opportunity to determine our future. The Capricorn Coast region is a popular tourism • Award-winning range of restaurants showcasing our destination supported by a thriving community full of delicious local produce potential and possibilities for future investment and • Superior fishing, crabbing, sailing, boating, and water- business development. based recreational opportunities.

The Capricorn Coast region offers an outstanding range In addition to these assets, the Capricorn Coast region of lifestyle and business opportunities that stem from: has a strong agricultural sector comprising beef cattle, • Vibrant beachfront, urban and village environments pineapples and a range of tropical fruits, including mangos, lychees, dragon fruit and macadamias. The • A modern boat harbour district is renowned for pure gold pineapples, the • Fantastic wide beaches popularity of which is growing rapidly on a national level. The Capricorn Coast region is the only place in Australia • Numerous islands including Great Keppel Island able to grow pineapples all year round. (popular for its clear blue water and white sand beaches)

• Rainforest retreats and limestone caves

• National parks and coastal headlands as well as walkways/bikeways

• Multiple golf courses, vacation stays and other tourist attractions YEPPOON CAIRNS

TOWNSVILLE

MACKAY

LIVINGSTONE ISSAAC REGION SHIRE CAPRICORN REGION CENTRAL COAST REGION HIGHLANDS REGION

WOORABINDA BANANA SHIRE ABORINGINAL SHIRE

BRISBANE

The region is also home to one of Australia’s most important defence force training facilities at , where the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and other allies, such as the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and United States (US) Military conduct regular training exercises every year. The foundation of the economy is local small business, including retail stores, accommodation providers, restaurants and cafes, engineering and various service businesses. Small businesses make up 99% of all businesses in the region. Living and working in the region is affordable, with very competitive rent and purchase prices for land, housing, commercial and industrial uses. Notwithstanding how great the community is right now, there is enormous potential for additional growth in agriculture, tourism, education, health and wellbeing services, and technology and innovation industries. Livingstone Shire Council believes in the incredible potential of the Capricorn Coast region and is investing heavily, in partnership with the Queensland and Australian governments (over $100 million), in multiple strategic projects that Coast Region Capricorn Invest will lay the foundation for future growth. 11 • Facilitate positive outcomes through relationships ROLE OF LOCAL with key local service providers; partnerships with adjoining jurisdictions and organisations; GOVERNMENT interpretation and dispersal of important baseline data on key statistics, demographics, trends and other IN ECONOMIC pertinent information; convening partners to identify pathways, resources and responsibilities for achieving DEVELOPMENT priorities. Local governments play a key advocacy role in facilitating • Regulate through a sound regulatory framework, and local economic development and are structured to service provide certainty for existing businesses, potential the local community and are attuned to local needs, investors and the community. constraints and opportunities. By facilitating growth • Plan direct and facilitate future growth by working and investment opportunities in the local economy, with the community and development industry. Local governments can also support broader community wellbeing goals. Local Government must champion • Provide Services: provide a range of important and the local economy and be a driving force for economic valuable services for the local economy, including growth. infrastructure, waste collection, placemaking and multiple other services. Local governments have numerous levers to create an environment conducive to economic growth, investment • Collaborate: Public-private partnerships are an and job creation. The diagram below highlights the core extremely effective means of delivering mutually areas of Local Government influence: beneficial initiatives that require the different capabilities of private and government sectors. • Advocate for good ideas, policy change and infrastructure investments from the Queensland and Local Government’s work should be complementary to Australian governments. private sector efforts, not competitive or duplicative.

An Invest Capricorn Coast Leadership Alliance will be Advocate established to work with Council Provide Facilitate and Capricorn Enterprise to Services provide strategic guidance and/ Economic or recommendations on regional Development economic development outcomes Leadership and strategies, including the Plan Regulate actions detailed in the Invest Capricorn Coast Region Economic Collaborate Development Plan. 13 Invest Capricorn Coast Region ECONOMIC CONTEXT Capricorn Coast’s regional Small businesses (those with 20 or fewer employees) are the backbone of Capricorn Coast’s regional economy economy is nothing short of comprising 99% of the region’s 5,500-plus registered dynamic and diverse. businesses (ABS 2016). With commercial rental rates of nearly half that of In terms of Gross Regional Product (GRP), construction is ’s, and – on the residential front – a median the top performing sector; aided by the delivery of major house price of $400,000 (in comparison to Brisbane’s local projects equating to a staggering $100-plus million $650,000), Capricorn Coast region is an affordable and in the last four years. Additionally, continued growth enviable destination in which to live, work, stay, play – in agricultural and manufacturing sectors is reflected in and invest. increased GRP contributions over the past decade. The region is resilient, nimble and forward-thinking; with Tourism remains the region’s largest employer a clear goal to embrace new technologies and support (1,150 people); injecting $151 million into the local innovation to achieve long-term economic sustainability economy (in the year ended September 2017). In fact, and growth, and – perhaps most importantly – the Capricorn Coast’s tourism sector is more lucrative than constant creation of local jobs. Queensland’s. Case in point: Tourism contributed 10% to Capricorn Coast region Vs 6% to the state’s economy (in Continual monitoring of demography and key industries/ the financial year 2015-16). While tourism is important sectors to identify trends will allow Capricorn Coast to the local economy, other service sectors – including region to harness opportunities locally, state wide and education and healthcare – are also vital and growing beyond. Through these efforts, Capricorn Coast region employment sectors. will remain diverse, strong, innovative and sustainable.

15 LOCAL ECONOMY JOBS

TOP FIVE SECTORS (2015 - 2016) Jobs added in Livingstone between 838 Sept 2016 & Sept 2017 $63.6M $72.1M $98.9M $104.6M $145.3M UNEMPLOYMENT RATE LIVINGSTONE DECEMBER 2016 SHIRE YEPPOON 47.8% AGRICULTURE, Live and work in TOURISM HEALTHCARE MANUFACTURING FORESTRY & FISHING CONSTRUCTION 7.0% Livingstone CENTRAL QLD $1.3 1150 jobs 903 jobs 853 jobs 855 jobs 868 jobs BILLION Source: ID Profile (2017) ROCKHAMPTON 5.9% 34.5% LIVINGSTONE Work in Rockhampton LIVINGSTONE SHIRE OF BUSINESSES ARE ECONOMY SMALL BUSINESS 12.6% (Comprising less than Work elsewhere 5.9% QLD Source: ID Profile (2017) OPEN 20 employees) 98.7% Source: ABS 2016 Census Source: ABS (2017) Source: Department of Employment PEOPLE AFFORDABILITY POPULATION GROWTH MAY 2017 42 5-year Avg Annual Growth to 2016 MEDIAN HOUSE PEOPLE 39 38 37 PRICES YE JUNE 2017 37,055 LIVINGSTONE 2016 2.1% $650,000

$475,000 CENTRAL QLD COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL AUSTRALIA 55,691 LIVINGSTONE QLD REGIONAL QLD 0.8% OFFICE RENT LAND PRICES BRISBANE BRISBANE $400,000 2036 AGE DEMOGRAPHICS 2016 AVG. $524/SQM AVG. $270/SQM MEDIAN AGE (YEARS) LIVINGSTONE LIVINGSTONE Source: QGSO (2017); QLD AVG. $277/SQM AVG. $150/SQM ABS (2017); Lucid Economics Source: ABS 2016 Census LIVINGSTONE QLD BRISBANE 1.6% Source: Savills (2017); Realcommercial.com (2017) Source: ABS QLD Dept of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy TOURISM 167,000 FUTURE JOBS overnight visitors EXPECTED FUTURE EMPLOYMENT in YE Sept 2017 OVER GROWTH 2015-2020 IN 500,000 THE FITZROY REGION VISITOR NIGHTS 618 IN YE SEPT2017 670 742 LIVINGSTONE 2018 742 TOURISM 1,711 10%10% 440 QUEENSLAND $151M HEALTHCAREEDUCATION PUBLIC ADMINTRANSPORT ACCOMMODATION PROFESSIONAL RETAIL SERVICES in visitor expenditure 1,150 JOBS 6.2% in YE Sept 2017 SUPPORTED BY 6.2% TOURISM 2015-16 OF ECONOMY BASED ON TOURISM 2015-16 Source: Department of Employment Source: Tourism Research Australia (2017); ID (2017) Lucid Economics JOBS

Jobs added in Livingstone between 838 Sept 2016 & Sept 2017 UNEMPLOYMENT RATE LIVINGSTONE DECEMBER 2016 SHIRE YEPPOON 47.8% Live and work in 7.0% Livingstone CENTRAL QLD

ROCKHAMPTON 5.9% 34.5% LIVINGSTONE Work in Rockhampton 12.6% Work elsewhere 5.9% QLD

Source: ABS 2016 Census

Source: Department of Employment AFFORDABILITY MAY 2017 MEDIAN HOUSE PRICES YE JUNE 2017

$650,000

$475,000 COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL OFFICE RENT LAND PRICES

BRISBANE BRISBANE $400,000 AVG. $524/SQM AVG. $270/SQM LIVINGSTONE LIVINGSTONE AVG. $277/SQM AVG. $150/SQM LIVINGSTONE QLD BRISBANE Source: Savills (2017); Realcommercial.com (2017) QLD Dept of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy FUTURE JOBS EXPECTED FUTURE EMPLOYMENT GROWTH 2015-2020 IN THE FITZROY REGION 618

670 742 2018 1,711 742 440

HEALTHCAREEDUCATION PUBLIC ADMINTRANSPORT ACCOMMODATION PROFESSIONAL RETAIL SERVICES

Source: Department of Employment 17 STRENGTHS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Strengths The Capricorn Coast region is home to a growing business community, offering extensive investment opportunities with key strengths that can easily be built on to grow the local economy.

Key Strengths

Lifestyle and Amenity

High quality lifestyle afforded by a year round moderate climate, multiple natural attractions and all the amenities needed to support a comfortable contemporary lifestyle. The region is the ideal place to work and live, without the hassle of capital city living.

Natural Assets Islands, Beaches, and Rainforest Retreats

The region boasts a wealth of recreational tourism assets that provide a foundation for future growth in tourism. From beaches, islands and the Southern Great Barrier Reef to rainforest retreats and limestone caves, the region offers outstanding exploring, camping, fishing, boating, and water-based recreational opportunities. support business and industry.support hostingmultiple Capricorn networking and developmentStart-Up events to ofCommerce, Chamber and Enterprise such astheCapricornia Capricorn andAustralian governments the Queensland Council, andorganisations with Town isstrong Centre Business Revitalisation Project. andsupport leadership including$53million for theregion, projects within theYeppoon Foreshore and $100 million iscurrently invested being inavariety ofenabling infrastructure andAustralian additional growth. Over governments,Queensland to support thebusinesscommunity,side with frombacking strong the financial with are proactive, progressive andforward thinking. isworking sideby Council region’s Coast The Capricorn community, groups business andindustry leadership Proactive ofcropsadditional hectares intheregion. the Livingstone Shire, to irrigate used which couldbe over 1,000 for expansion by providing 4,000MLofwateropportunities to Weirapproved, thefuture Rookwood major unlock project will contributing $88million toIf economy theregional in2015-16. enjoys region astrong Coast The Capricorn agriculturalsector, Climate, Water Soils and andotherareas. Brisbane is justaquickhalf-an-hourdrive, one-hourflights offeringdirect to inRockhampton Gladstone, oneofAustralia’s andthe airport ports, largest isalsocloseto productwest ensures distribution.Theregion streamlined Astrong region. the broader southand andrail road network to thenorth, conveniently accessibleto the mining, resource andagriculturalassetsof ofCentral Queensland, intheheart islocated region Coast The Capricorn Accesibility -Central Location the priceofBrisbane. $650,000 andcommercial rental inBrisbane rates half are nearly housepriceis$400,000 Themedian to Queensland. compared tovacant $231,000across priceis$175,000 compared landsale andsetuphome.business, acquire Themedian property affordable isavery place region to conduct Coast The Capricorn AffordablePremises Housing and Land, many residents Coast work. catchment,much larger city includingthenearby ofRockhamptonwhere on thecurrent a lifestyle alsoserves Coast andamenities.TheCapricorn investments aconsiderably greater noimpact populationwith cansupport infrastructure feel. community Existingandpending avillage coastal with to has itsidentity offer.retained asa region Coast Capricorn the Regardless, growth rateQueensland’s for sometime, of areflection what has the region Population hasexceeded region growth Coast intheCapricorn Population Investment and Growth 19 Invest Capricorn Coast Region Opportunities The following sectors have considerable potential for growth:

Tourism Sport and Leisure • Adding new tourism product and experiences including luxury accommodation conference/event Tourism is already an important part of the economy venues and other niche products such as health and providing 8.2% of all jobs and directly contributing wellness experiences, agriculture/food tourism and nearly 10% to the local economy. Some assets are Indigenous experiences underleveraged. Great Keppel Island in particular could support substantially more visitors with its proximity • Increasing access to the Southern Great Barrier Reef, to the Capricorn Coast. Regular transport from Rosslyn fishing, islands and other natural attractions Bay Harbour to Great Keppel Island and its surrounding • Expanding agritourism and eco-tourism experiences islands provide visitors direct access to the Southern across the region Great Barrier Reef for swimming, snorkelling and fishing • Improving the accessibility and legibility of as well as unique eco-island adventures. attractions to the drive market, including grey nomads Opportunities for expansion include land based eco and and backpackers nature-based tourism, sports/eco-based tourism (working • Improving the general appeal and attractiveness with local schools and sporting organisations), agri-based of the region’s communities and precincts through tourism (particularly cattle stations), rock climbing, beach placemaking and water sports and fishing. There is a rich array of attractions in and surrounding Yeppoon. Capitalising on • Increasing the tourism profile of the Capricorn Coast these opportunities will foster longer stays and increased region’s unique existing attractions such as Koorana value-add from visitors. Actions required to achieve these Crocodile Farm, , Cooberrie Park, goals include: Great Keppel Island retreats, Byfield based B&B’s and retreats and via industry • Targeted industry product development training development and marketing programs opportunities for tourism operators to build their capacity to attract and increase visitation to the • Development of locally distinctive events and better Capricorn Coast region promoting existing events focused on business, sports, recreation, music, culture and celebrations.

The Great Keppel Island and the Capricorn Resort re- development proposals remain incredible opportunities for future tourism growth. Investment in these iconic tourist resorts would create over 1,000 jobs locally and further promote the Capricorn Coast region as a destination of choice for both national and international visitors. higher crop usingournatural topography. coastal yields of theexisting andproduce supply chainsintheregion couldleverage manypotential. Aquaculture opportunities enormous with Aquaculture isanotherindustry throughcapacity production intheregion’s feedlot north. centre onexpanding beef-fattening opportunities of allagriculturalproduction by value. Investment upapproximately making activity intheregion, 70% Cattle isthemostvaluable processing agricultural agri-tourism opportunities. farm-to-plate diningexperiences, andfostering and food producers andrestaurants,local thedevelopment via of by leveraged premium further prices.Thisproduce canbe the production ofhigh-quality produce to organic achieve Current trends inwellness andhealthy support eating abundant rain) to maximiseproduction. exceptional natural assets(climate, high quality soil and The challengenow isto take advantage ofthearea’s small-scalefarmsthat have local successfullyfield tested. in several otherhigh-value crops suchastropical fruits plants. processing food There are value-add opportunities at options to expand onexisting operations including region’s Coast Capricorn producers are pineapple looking $88 million to The economy theregional in 2015-16. andcattle. pineapples Agricultureespecially contributed atraditionalstrengthAgriculture ofthearea, hasbeen Value-Added Processing Agriculture, Aquaculture and expand upon - and benefit from -the wellness market. -andbenefit expand upon wellness culture,perfect platform offersa theregion to andanalready established region entire Coast Capricorn environmental green the clean, conditionsacross the andalternative massage fitness, yoga, therapies.Given remedies, herbal foods, and industries, suchasorganic rangeofactivities inawide provides opportunities Growth over thelastfew inthewellness sector decades amenities andactivities. to live that inanarea provides high-quality lifestyle, theirtraditionalhomeandchoose retirees downsize anumber ofactive hasseen over thelastdecade village resort-style retirement living. Theadvent ofthe55+ major attractor for theseestablishments, inparticular presents region a Coast theCapricorn with associated thehighin particular, level ofamenity andlifestyle profile.demographic care,For aged or retirementvillages care andretirement to inresponse living anageing aged for isincreasing services, healthcare Demand andWellbeingHealth 21 Invest Capricorn Coast Region Digital Technology and Innovation

Council will endeavour to support business and SMEs that do not embrace the new digital economy industry in their uptake of digital technologies. will be competing against new market entrants Existing businesses can be expected to leverage new that use technology in a way that better meets technologies to engage more often and meaningfully their customers’ needs. The rise of Uber, Netflix with their customers, broaden their markets, operate and Facebook have all been started by using smart more efficiently and/or pursue new ventures. technology to feed consumer demand for these services. Capricorn Coast region businesses need to Research shows digital investment provides a be digitally enabled to ensure they can keep up with threefold return over traditional investment. Access emerging digital trends. to high-speed broadband provides a game-changing opportunity to leverage the Capricorn Coast region’s All of the benefits associated with a digital economy outstanding amenity and lifestyle features to attract require suitable digital connectivity and, where new residents, businesses and investors not bound by appropriate, Council will support and invest in digital geography. infrastructure. Investment in digital infrastructure and technology also helps lower business’ operational costs, Australia’s rapidly growing digital economy has increase the ease of doing business and assist them overtaken many traditional industries such as (and future investors) to increase revenue streams by agriculture, retail and transport to be worth around 5% using digital marketing tools such as iBeacons, sensors of GDP, or $79bn. By 2020 it is forecasted that growth and Wi-Fi. will have continued reaching $139bn or approximately 7% of GDP. The Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management, Innovation and Community Resilience - ‘The Hub’ According to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Yeppoon Town Centre, is designed to support an Queensland Digital Readiness Study (2016), Small to innovation hub where start-up businesses can co- Medium Enterprise (SMEs) that have advanced levels locate. This will create opportunities to partner and of digital engagement are: access new digital programs, thus improving the • 1.5 times more likely to be growing revenue, and productivity and competitiveness of key industries and earned 1.4 times more revenue per employee in the increasing local jobs through the incubation of new previous year businesses. • More than eight times more likely to be creating jobs, and created an average of 12 additional jobs in Council is developing a “smart region strategy” to the previous year encourage innovative people and businesses to relocate • Seven times more likely to be exporting to the Capricorn Coast region; but most importantly • More than 14 times more likely to be innovating by to advance our economy, attract investment, build our offering new products or services prosperity and improve our communities lifestyle. • SME revenue growth was almost 20% higher for each step up the digital engagement ladder – that’s a big digital dividend for business. Service Industry Defence and Mining

Consultation with a variety of stakeholders revealed The Capricorn Coast region incorporates the 454,000 that – due to lack of choice or unavailability of hectare Shoalwater Bay Training Area which occupies products and services – many residents choose to approximately 25% of the region. shop online or outside the region, by travelling to The major expansion of facilities and increased Rockhampton or further afield. Development of the military training exercises planned for the Shoalwater Capricorn Coast Homemaker Centre and The Gateway Bay Training Area offers a host of opportunities Business and Industry Park will enhance opportunities for local suppliers to provide services and products for keeping business local and enable more new to the Australian Defence Force, Singapore Armed businesses to invest in the region. This will provide Forces and the United States Military. Business residents greater “choice” in a wide variety of products and industry need to stay abreast of tendered work and services, thereby filling gaps in the market. packages and proposal requirements and build The Capricorn Coast Homemaker Centre is designed servicing capacity by partnering wherever possible to to support “big box” retail outlets selling items such take advantage of supply opportunities. The Gateway as hardware, whitegoods, furniture and plumbing/ Business and Industry Park is the ideal location for a electrical supplies. The Gateway Business and military logistic hub to provide localised storage and Industry Park accommodates for a variety of mixed distribution capability to the Shoalwater Bay Training uses including manufacturing and engineering, garden Area. centres and machinery repair shops, as well as any Existing and new service industries can also capitalise variety of trades and local services. on the growth of the mining sector and major projects Professional and government support services are such as the Carmichael Mine and Rail project in the future growth prospects, particularly as additional Galilee Basin, as well as opportunities arising from digital technology and capacity is added by investment the 27 coal mines currently operating on our doorstep in service and industry opportunities. in the nearby Bowen Basin. The Gateway Business and Industry Park is a prime location to co-locate manufacturing, engineering and mining support service industries. Invest Capricorn Coast Region Capricorn Invest

23 Education and Research

The choice of schools and education providers in the The international education and training sector Capricorn Coast region is exceptional. The region hosts (Queensland’s second largest service export) is growing more than 25 child care centres, kindergartens, primary rapidly. Over a third of Queensland’s international and secondary schools (both public and private). Yeppoon students study in regional areas. Attracting international is home to two nationally renowned boarding schools – students to take advantage of the Capricorn Coast region’s St Ursula’s College and St Brendan’s College – which cater close proximity to CQUni could lead to the establishment for male and female boarders from across Australia and of an international student hub. overseas at fees substantially less than those charged in Beyond educational offerings, there are opportunities capital cities. for local research initiatives that could be associated Local students can pursue higher education through with various universities. These initiatives could work CQUniversity (CQUni) located 20 minutes’ drive away cooperatively with local business and industry to in Rockhampton. CQUni is Australia’s largest regional generate considerable innovation as well as support university and offers more than 300 university and TAFE the growth of any identified high-value industry qualifications through a range of flexible study options opportunities. For example, establishing a research and practical learning experiences. centre on Great Keppel Island would provide multiple reef, marine biology, climate and related research The Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management, opportunities. This could leverage existing access and Innovation and Community Resilience (‘The Hub’) has infrastructure on the island, as well highlight its position been designed to provide specialist Disaster Recovery and as a premier tourist destination on the Southern Great Resilience training for students and emergency services Barrier Reef. The Centre of Excellence for Disaster personnel. Management, Innovation and Community Resilience Maintaining and attracting skilled workers remains (‘The Hub’) will function as a Disaster Management a challenge. The Capricorn Coast region is in direct Training Centre hosting specialist accredited disaster competition with the allure of capital cities, many people coordination and resilience training courses. – particularly youth and professionals – opt to live and work in capital cities rather than regional areas. The region, however, hosts most of the amenities and services that capital cities provide at a lower cost. Recognising this, efforts are being made to align training with local skills requirements to mitigate the outflow of talent through job containment and optimising local workforce diversity. development opportunities. development opportunities. exchanges andinvestment attraction andindustry and pave theway for andeconomic future cultural,social to Xinba, China, establishwith afoundation relationship the City ofYangzhong and aTown Friendship Agreement hasenteredCouncil aFriendship City Agreement with region. the economy Coast oftheCapricorn community, promote investment andgrow opportunities for our andculturalopportunities the economic and investment countries missionsto to both broaden andSingapore through ofChina trade trading partners hasestablishedCouncil relationships themajor with advantage andpromote foreign investment inourregion. and trainingstrengths to showcase ourcomparative andagribusiness,tourism,assets, food andeducation it isessential that we promote ourabundant natural intheglobal economy canplay region apart Coast ofthedigital age. Toopportunities ensure theCapricorn change, constraints ongovernments borrowing andthe population aging, pressure onnatural resources, climate by manyimpacted factors suchastheriseofAsia, The global economy ashift andisbeing isundergoing Attraction International Investment • • • • • • • • • to:not limited exist for internationalOpportunities investment inbut (“Weekend at the Coast”). internationalCQUni students experiences visitor Education Tour activities Packages planned ForcesSingapore Armed States andUnited Military opportunities Aquaculture export Park Industry to establishcompanies inTheGateway Business and (METS) andservices technology Mining equipment, student hub Establishment ofaninternational Value-added exports food agriculturalproductivity Increased City ofYangzhong) sharing with innovation energy Green (technology Island Resort) andtheCapricorn Key tourist attraction redevelopments (Great Keppel 25 Invest Capricorn Coast Region Stakeholder Engagement During preliminary consultation in the development of this plan, local business and key stakeholders contributed to the identification of many of the competitive advantages and future growth opportunities as outlined in this document. At the same time, they highlighted a variety of matters to consider for the future economic growth of the Capricorn Coast region.

Feedback from consultation key stakeholders highlighted the following opportunities:

Diversification GREAT KEPPEL ISLAND AGRICULTURE Healthcare FOOD & SPORTS TOURISM Regional Digital Linkages FORESHORE Skills Education Rookwood Weir Retirement Village AIRPORT Tourist Resort Aquaculture SMALL BUSINESS & Accommodation GROW BUSINESS PADDOCK TO PLATE TOURISM Defence EVENTS More Local Jobs Gateway Business & Industry Park Sustainability Attract Entrepreneurship MARKETING Investment Eco-Tourism Art & Culture Convention Centre IDENTITY LIFESTYLE REGIONAL Capricorn Resort RELATIONSHIPS Key Issues to Consider Consultation with stakeholders highlighted a variety of key considerations including:

• Need for local job generation (many residents travel to Rockhampton every day for work)

• Promotion of the regions investment identity and limited awareness of the potential of the area at state and national level

• Expansion of healthcare/aged care/retirement living services

• Difficulty in finding local skilled workers

• Tyranny of distance away from major markets and many suppliers/service providers

The Economic Development Plan will seek to address these issues through local business and industry development, investment attraction and other targeted activities. Invest Capricorn Coast Region Capricorn Invest

27 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN OVERVIEW

GOAL: A diverse, strong, innovative and sustainable local economy providing employment and business opportunities for current and future generations. The Economic Development FUTURE GROWTH Plan is structured to work in tandem with the enabling ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN projects that Livingstone Shire ENABLING Council currently has underway PROJECTS 1. Local Business and Industry Development OUTCOMES in partnership with other tiers of Proactive business expansion and retention program Local Employment government. Ensuring alignment across skills, jobs, and local residents Placemaking designed to drive visitation and customers The Economic Development Plan provides a foundation Local Business Advocate for greater infrastructure investment from for three strategic initiatives and supporting activities that Opportunities Queensland and Australian governments will work with the enabling projects to facilitate future ECONOMIC Economic Growth economic growth and the achievement of these strategies. DEVELOPMENT 2. Investment Attraction The Plan is a “living” document, in that it will evolve as PLAN Community Vibrancy needed to meet future challenges and opportunities. Marketing the region as a desirable tourism destination Promoting investment opportunities across the region The diagram on the right provides an overview of the Economic Vitality Economic Development Plan, which has been informed Proactive targeting and engagement with prospective investors through preliminary consultation with business, industry and government agencies including a detailed review of 3. Technology and Innovation the economy and the region’s competitive advantages and future growth opportunities. Improving digital engagement and take-up amongst local businesses Deploy digital infrastructure to increase business Foster an environment that encourages entrepreneurial innovation

ACRONYMS ATO – Australian Tax Oce DSD - Department of State Development ADF – Australian Defence Force LSC – Livingstone Shire Council CE – Capricorn Enterprise RDAFCW – Regional Development Australia CCIQ – Capricorn Chamber of Commerce Fitzroy and Central West DSITI – Department of Science, Information SAF – Singapore Armed Forces Technology and Innovation TIQ – Trade and Investment Queensland 3. Technology and Innovation and 3. Technology Attraction Investment 2. Development Industry and Business Local 1. and business opportunities forand businessopportunities current andfuture generations. A diverse, strong, innovative andsustainable economy local providing employment GOAL: ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN DSITI CCIQ CE ADF ATO ACRONYMS Technology andInnovation Foster anenvironment that encourages entrepreneurial innovation digital infrastructure toDeploy business increase Improving digital engagement andtake-up businesses amongst local investors andengagementProactive prospective targeting with Promoting investment across theregion opportunities Marketing asadesirable theregion tourism destination and Australian governmentsQueensland Advocate for greater infrastructure investment from toPlacemaking drive designed visitation andcustomers Ensuring alignment across skills, residents jobs, andlocal Proactive businessexpansion andretention program – Capricorn Enterprise

– Australian Defence Force – Australian Tax Oce – Capricorn of Commerce Chamber – Department ofScience, Information – Department TIQ SAF RDAFCW LSC DSD Fitzroy andCentralWest –Singapore Armed Forces - Department ofState Development -Department – Livingstone Shire Council – Trade andInvestment Queensland –Regional Development Australia Economic Vitality Community Vibrancy Economic Growth Opportunities Business Local Employment Local OUTCOMES 29 Invest Capricorn Coast Region ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN STRATEGIC INITIATIVES

Strategic Initiatives 1. LOCAL BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT 2. INVESTMENT ATTRACTION 3. TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION positive impact on both the local and regional economy. andregional thelocal onboth impact positive to developindustry andgrow have will aprofound and businessand ofassistinglocal benefit The collective and development Plan. ofthisEconomic Development featuredenterprises prominently during theconsultation small-to-medium inlocal ofbuilding capacity importance is dominated The enterprises. by small-to-medium acrossLike Australia, economy mosteconomies ourlocal job growth comesfrom existing businessandindustry. 60%-80%ofinvestment economies, In mostmodern and Why? businesses. to local potentially provide more support residents to buy to andvisitors lingerlongerand local, key are locations attractive andinviting encourage will Ensuringpublicplacesin future growth opportunities. security, andenable themto take fulladvantage of and othercurrent trends canhelptheirexpansion and to-date information regarding grants, assistance programs Ensuring, businesseshaveissues andopportunities. up- employers provides essential insights into trends, local economy.of thelocal Proactive engagement local with isfundamental toand industry assuringthesuccess Ensuring thegrowth andsustainability business oflocal Overview Development andIndustry Business Local 1.

Link to Council’s Corporate Plan toLink Corporate Council’s • • • sustainable economic growth.sustainable economic that and generate creation jobs, opportunities wealth tosector create projects andundertake enterprises government both andtheprivate with partnerships Strategy EC4:Establish initiatives including businesses andindustries insuitable locations. retention, growth anddiversification of existing establishment ofbusinessesandindustries andthe Strategy EC2:Facilitate, encourageandenable the for ofthecommunity. thebenefit opportunities Strategy EC1:Identify andcapitalise oneconomic

31 Invest Capricorn Coast Region 1. Local Business and Industry Development

ACTION LEAD AGENCY STAKEHOLDERS MEASURE TIME FRAME

1.1 Proactive business expansion and retention program

1.1.1 Directly engage LSC Economy and Local businesses Business satisfaction survey Annual individually with local business Places owners

1.1.2 Assist local businesses to LSC Economy and Local businesses, The number of businesses that Annual connect to various Queensland Places in partnership Queensland accessed programs and Australian government with CE and Australian This is in addition to, or in programs Government, partnership with, the support Austrade, DSDMIP, that CE, CCC, DSDMIP, DHPW, DHPW, ATO, CE, Austrade, ATO and RDAFCW CCC, RDAFCW provide to local businesses

1.1.3 Provide seminars and LSC Economy and Local businesses, Conduct quarterly seminars / Annual workshops for local businesses Places in partnership business and workshops on industry relevant topics with CE industry groups, This is in addition to, or in Austrade, DSDMIP, partnership with the seminars/ DHPW, ATO, CE, workshops that CE, CCC, CCC, RDAFCW DSDMIP, DHPW, Austrade, ATO and RDAFCW facilitate for local businesses

1.1.4 Using EconomyID, provide LSC Economy and LSC Economy and Provide quarterly updates Annual regular economic updates to the Places Places local business community

1.1.5 Provide a Business Capricorn Enterprise Local businesses Number of businesses that Annual Development Program for local in partnership with accessed program businesses LSC Economy and Places

1.2 Ensuring alignment across skills, jobs and local residents

1.2.1 Identify existing skills LSC Economy and Local businesses Individual meetings with Ongoing gap through analysis and Places and business and businesses – research and report discussions with businesses industry groups on actions required to address skills gap

1.2.2 Engage with education LSC Economy and Education and Quarterly meetings with Ongoing providers regarding filling skills Places training providers education and training providers gaps

1.2.3 Facilitate access to local LSC Economy and Yeppoon and Increasing membership and local Annual jobs for local residents through Places Capricorn Coast jobs advertised for local people Yeppoon and Capricorn Coast Region Joblink Region Joblink ACTION LEAD AGENCY STAKEHOLDERS MEASURE TIME FRAME

1.3 Placemaking designed to drive visitation and customers

1.3.1 Implement Yeppoon LSC Economy and Community and Number/value of initiatives Annual Placemaking Strategy in Places in partnership local business, implemented from Priority collaboration with community with LSC Community Keppel Coast Initiatives List members Engagement Arts, CQUni, LSC Council financial investment Livability and Wellbeing, LSC Community financial and in-kind Infrastructure. investment

1.3.2 Integrate placemaking LSC Economy and Community and 100% compliance with Council Annual into all appropriate Council Places in partnership local business, policies prescribing placemaking initiatives within the public with LSC Community Keppel Coast considerations realm Engagement Arts, CQUni, LSC Number/value of placemaking Livability and initiatives undertaken Wellbeing, LSC Infrastructure.

1.3.3 Undertake placemaking LSC Economy and Community and Number/value of placemaking Annual initiatives wherever a Places in partnership local business, initiatives undertaken substantial impact on with LSC Community Keppel Coast Community response indicated community and visitor Engagement Arts, CQUni, LSC through feedback to Council and perspectives can be achieved Livability and social media Wellbeing, LSC Infrastructure.

1.4 Advocate for greater infrastructure investment from the Queensland and Australian governments

1.4.1 Develop advocacy LSC Office of Mayor LSC Livability and Development of annual advocacy Annual document and keyDRAFT selling & CEO, LSC Economy Wellbeing, LSC document messages for Government and Places Infrastructure, LSC Finance and Business Excellence, Queensland and Australian Government

1.4.2 Conduct annual trips to LSC Office of Mayor Queensland Minimum two trips per year Annual Brisbane and Canberra to meet & CEO and Australian with key political figures and Government senior staff

1.4.3 Submit grant applications LSC Economy and LSC Livability and Submit four growth and economic Ongoing to applicable programs for Places Wellbeing, LSC development funding grant community, business and Infrastructure, applications on behalf of LSC as infrastructure projects LSC Finance and approved by Council Business excellence, Assist a minimum of five local Local businesses; businesses apply for eligible grants Queensland to grow their business and Australian Government Capricorn Coast Region Capricorn Invest

33

2. Investment Attraction fishing. By capitalising on these opportunities we intend to grow the region’s reputation as a unique bush to beach Overview holiday destination, fostering longer stays and increasing value-add to local business from visitors. Thoughtful and targeted investment marketing and promotional activities will generate private sector Why? awareness of the Capricorn Coast region’s potential as Local job and business growth are the principle economic an attractive investment option. Ensuring a distinct drivers supporting the region’s future prosperity. New coastal investment identity, the promotion of “open for private and public sector investment and enhanced business”, combined with marketing the liveability of the tourism product and services will deliver new jobs and Capricorn Coast will raise the investment profile of the ensure local business and industry growth. We will use region. Aggressively pursuing and engaging prospective better branding, marketing and business development investors within identified targeted sectors will ensure activities to promote the key elements and essence of the efforts are focused in areas that offer the greatest chance Capricorn Coast region as a leading tourist, business and of success and optimal benefit to the community and investment location. economy. Livingstone Shire Council acknowledges that new Link to Council’s Corporate Plan business investment is essential for the growth of • Strategy EC2: Facilitate, encourage and enable the existing businesses, and local employment opportunities establishment of businesses and industries and the and economic diversification. To this end, Council will retention, growth and diversification of existing do everything within its power to leverage its existing businesses and industries in suitable locations. capital assets such as The Gateway Business and Industry Park and the Capricorn Coast Homemaker Centre. • Strategy EC3: Promote Livingstone Shire as a desirable destination for investment, business, We will continue to work with Capricorn Enterprise and industry, tourism and living. other partners to increase tourism assets and unlock new opportunities attached to ecotourism, sports tourism, agri-tourism, rock climbing, beach and water sports and Invest Capricorn Coast Region Capricorn Invest

35 2. Investment Attraction

ACTION LEAD AGENCY STAKEHOLDERS MEASURE TIME FRAME

2.1 Marketing the region as a desirable tourism destination

2.1.1 Capricorn Enterprise Capricorn Enterprise LSC, Local tourism Develop unique identity Annual continues to build on the attraction and (brand) as per the Capricorn Coast region’s destination operators, initiatives outlined in the unique identity (brand) local businesses, Capricorn Destination business and industry Tourism Plan and the LCS/ groups CE Annual Agreement

2.1.2 Capricorn Enterprise Capricorn Enterprise LSC, Local tourism Range of marketing Annual continues to develop the attraction and materials per the initiatives suite of marketing materials destination operators, outlined in the Capricorn to promote the Capricorn local businesses, Destination Tourism Plan Coast as the premier business and industry and the LCS/CE Annual destination on the Southern groups Agreement Great Barrier Reef

2.1.3 Capricorn Enterprise Capricorn Enterprise LSC, Local tourism Develop a Capricorn Coast Annual continues to develop and attraction and region tourism and lifestyle implement a focused destination operators, marketing campaign as per tourism and lifestyle local businesses, the initiatives outlined in marketing campaign to business and industry the Capricorn Destination promote the Capricorn Coast groups Tourism Plan and the as the premier destination LCS/Capricorn Enterprise on the Southern Great Annual Agreement Barrier Reef

2.2 Promoting investment opportunities across the region

2.2.1 Develop a suite of LSC Economy and TIQ, DSDMIP, RDA, Range of marketing Annual marketing materials for Places Austrade, CE materials including the Capricorn Coast region website content, Capricorn to promote it as a viable, Coast region investment diverse investment prospect prospectus, investment video brochure, The Gateway Business and Industry Park investment prospectus

2.2.2 Conduct targeted LSC Economy and DSDMIP, RDA, TIQ, The number of enquiries Annual marketing campaign/ Places Austrade, CE from new investment program to raise awareness prospects inside and and recruit investment to outside the region the region ACTION LEAD AGENCY STAKEHOLDERS MEASURE TIME FRAME

2.3 Proactive targeting and engagement with prospective investors

2.3.1 Research to target- LSC Economy and DSDMIP, RDA, TIQ, Tailored research into Annual specific industries and Places CE, CQUni, Austrade, identified opportunities potential investors private enterprise Develop a list of potential industries that match the regions needs

2.3.2 Proactively engage with LSC Economy and DSDMIP, RDA,TIQ, CE Number of potential Annual potential investors regarding Places investors contacted and opportunities to invest in success stories from these the region contacts

2.3.3 Research national LSC Economy and DSDMIP, TIQ, CE, Tailored research into Ongoing and offshore market Places Austrade identified opportunities opportunities for goods that The number of local can be produced locally businesses connected with new markets

2.3.4 Leverage from Sister- LSC Economy and DSDMIP, TIQ, CE, Form a Sister City Annual City partnerships, and Places Austrade, ADF, SAF relationship with the international partnerships City of Yangzhong and to attract investment and Xinba Town Friendship new jobs; ADF and SAF Agreement, China, to Shoalwater Bay Training promote investment Area military exercises opportunities in the region expansion. Synthesize and build on partnerships with Singapore to capitalise on infrastructure and local supply investment opportunities under the ASMTI agreement with the SAF and ADF expanded military training exercises at the Shoalwater Bay Training Area 3. Technology and Innovation

Overview Remaining abreast of new technologies will help local businesses and industry access new markets, become more efficient and develop new products and services. High speed digital connectivity allows professionals and businesses to locate and operate wherever they want. In this respect the Capricorn Coast region is a very attractive lifestyle choice for non-geographically limited businesses. For these reasons Council will support the ongoing evolution of a digitally enabled environment and entrepreneurial culture to optimise the Capricorn Coast region’s appeal to digital economy innovators.

Why? Spurring creativity and fostering an environment of entrepreneurship will lead to new business ventures, new jobs and increasing levels of innovation and knowledge creation within the local economy.

Link to the Council’s Corporate Plan • Strategy EC1: Identify and capitalise on economic opportunities for the benefits of the community.

• Strategy EC2: Facilitate, encourage and enable the establishment of businesses and industries and the retention, growth and diversification of existing businesses and industries in suitable locations.

• Strategy EC4: Establish initiatives including partnerships with both government and the private sector to create enterprises and undertake projects that generate jobs, wealth creation opportunities and sustainable economic growth. 3. Technology and Innovation

ACTION LEAD AGENCY STAKEHOLDERS MEASURE TIME FRAME

3.1 Improving digital engagement and take-up amongst local businesses

3.1.1 Provide specific LSC Economy and LSC Community Provide four workshops Annual workshops and learning Places Engagement, LSC opportunities for local ICT Services, DSDMIP, businesses regarding new DHPW, CCC, Startup digital technology (digital Capricorn, CE marketing, social media training)

3.1.2 Identify local digital LSC Economy and Local businesses Identify two digital Ongoing and innovation champions Places community champions, to share benefits of digital appoint a Councillor digital literacy and adoption with champion the community and local business

3.1.3 Develop a Smart LSC Economy and LSC Community Year 1 Region Strategy to ensure Places Engagement, LSC that the region’s business ICT Services, DSDMIP, and community embraces DHPW, CCC, Startup the global digital trend to Capricorn, CE advance our economy, attract investment and build our prosperity

3.2 Deploy digital infrastructure to increase business

3.2.1 Deploy digital LSC Economy and Industry provider Digital infrastructure Year 1 infrastructure across major Places in partnership deployed Year 2 tourism, small business with DHPW, DITID, Year 3 and industrial precincts to LSC Community provide cost-effective digital Engagement and marketing opportunities Capricorn Enterprise for business to encourage visitors and increase retails spend

3.3 Foster an environment that encourages entrepreneurial innovation

3.3.1 Host guest speakers to LSC Economy and DSDMIP, DHPW, CCC, Host two functions with Annual inspire and encourage local Places Startup Capricorn, CE guest speakers residents and businesses to start new ventures

3.3.2 Provide support, LSC Economy and Local community, start- Provide support to four Annual advice and contacts to local Places ups, Startup Capricorn local start-ups residents and businesses that want to start a new venture

3.3.3 Support a business LSC Economy and Startup Capricorn ICT Develop feasibility study Ongoing incubator-style enterprise Places Network, CQUni, start- and concept that can create an ups environment of new business ideas and ventures

39 MONITORING AND TRACKING ACTION PLAN PROGRESS

As with any plan, tracking and it is impacted by multiple factors. While many of these are beyond the control of one organisation, being monitoring progress is essential strategic, planning and taking action in accordance with for ensuring that efforts remain identified needs and opportunities both mitigates risk and maximises return. The actions stipulated in this plan focused on initiatives that have been determined on that basis. Their successful delivery is dependent on Council, the community, deliver the greatest return to the government, local businesses and industry organisations economy and community. We working closely together in partnership. will do this in several ways: There are a variety of economic indicators that change on an annual and/or quarterly basis that we can reference to • Track the progress Plan implementation and outcomes provide insights on the state of the economy, including: acheived • Gross Regional Product (GRP) • Monitor general economic progress • Employment, by industry • Continually engage with the business community • Unemployment rate • Adjust priorities according to new information and opportunities. • Building approvals

No organisation can fully control what takes place in the • Median house prices economy and should not be soley held accountable for • Population growth it; however, by undertaking these actions we can ensure that the Economic Development Plan is always optimally • Tourism visitation and expenditure. attuned to supporting positive economic forces. These indicators should be tracked and published No organisation or business can fully control what annually as an economic scorecard, coinciding with a takes place in the economy as the capacity to manage review of the individual initiatives and tasks contained in the strategic initiatives program of work. 41 Invest Capricorn Coast Region ENABLING PROJECTS

Multiple infrastructure projects have the capability to boost local economic capacity and performance by catalysing new investment. There are four project categories:

• Game Changer projects that deliver substantial and immediate economic impacts

• Aspirational projects are not achievable in the short term (due to resourcing or market limitations) but could be future game changers

• Enabling Infrastructure Projects are those those that can reasonably be expected to deliver as core services, which are essential to economic growth

• Community Development projects that add to the identity, liveability and appeal of the area, such as placemaking and youth/senior support initiatives. 43 Invest Capricorn Coast Region Game Changer Projects

Yeppoon Foreshore and Town Centre Revitalisation

The Yeppoon Foreshore and Town Centre Revitalisation equipment and placemaking along Anzac Parade and the project represents a $53 million investment into the main foreshore section are included. region, jointly funded with the Australian Government Finalisation of the project will see the Yeppoon foreshore contributing $10 million, the transformed, creating a hive of resident and visitor $29 million and Council $14 million. The overall objective activity and spend, enhancing future private sector is to revitalise existing public spaces and increase investment across the region. tourism, recreation and commercial land uses within the Yeppoon Foreshore and Town Centre precinct. This With its beachside location and proximity to the project includes the completed Keppel Kraken Water Play, revitalised Yeppoon Foreshore and Town Centre the the Yeppoon Town Centre carpark and car wash business current site of the Council chambers is a prime future site (with associated tenancies), pathway connections and for high-end tourism development to fully complement public art. the transformation.

The Yeppoon Foreshore and Town Centre Revitalisation http://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/855/Yeppoon- project also includes a lagoon pool, which includes a Foreshore-and-Town-Centre-Revita shallow-depth children’s play area as well as an informal lap swimming area, plus shaded areas in and around the lagoon. The two-storey pavilion overlooking the lagoon will offer new dining and entertainment opportunities. Upgrades to Appleton Park skate bowl and playground • • • • • • • • • • • • uses,including: and industry assessment for light-to-medium business (low impact) approval haspreliminary offeringsimpleself- park five minuteslocated from Yeppoon Centre. Town The on56hectares businesspark master planned owned The Gateway Park isaCouncil Business andIndustry Storage/sales activities orhireSale premises Retail warehouse storeProduce Metal product manufacturing orwelding repair workshop Machinery utility Local facility sports Indoor entertainment Indoor Garden centre/landscape supplies display/salesShowroom activities Manufacturing/processing activities https://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/832/Gateway jobs. local Park hasthepotential to generateIndustry hundreds of active businesses,TheGatewaywith Business and 12,000m2 are available for purchase. fullydeveloped Once in2017andlotsranging from 2,000m2to developed Stage 1of the project iscomplete (2016)and Stage 2was • • • • • • • • Funeral parlour. washCar Vehicle depot Veterinary clinic activities Transport Telecommunications facility Take-away store food Storage premises and Industry Park Industry and GatewayThe Business 45 Invest Capricorn Coast Region The Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management, Innovation Capricorn Coast and Community Resilience Homemaker Centre (‘The Hub’)

The Capricorn Coast Homemaker Centre is a dedicated The Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management, “Homemaker Centre” fronting the Yeppoon-to- Innovation and Community Resilience, known as ‘The Rockhampton Road. The site is in a central location on Hub’ is a $6.225 million project jointly funded by the nine hectares of land close to town and is earmarked for Australian and Queensland governments and Livingstone large format retail, bulky goods and associated businesses. Shire Council. It is a cyclone-proof three-storey building Stage 1 went to market in 2016 and commenced in Yeppoon Town Centre, designed to function as a development in 2017. Stage 2 will be developed in future strategic hub for managing and coordinating disaster years subject to demand. The total development has the situations and recovery efforts and building community potential to add around 300 local jobs to the Capricorn resilience. Coast region and, with the right tenancy mix will retain Additionally, and potentially more importantly, the local spend within the community. Council received centre can also function as a state-of-the-art centre $3 million funding from the Queensland Government of excellence for an education and research facility to through the Works for Queensland (W4Q) program which encourage entrepreneurship, and provide flexible co- is an initiative to assist with local job creation. working space via a high-technology learning space. The centre has the potential to become a hub of innovation and economic development for the Capricorn Coast region, providing a catalyst for future employment.

http://www.livingstone.qld.gov.au/1228/LDCC-and- Community-Education-Resilience opportunities for service personnel are expanded. personnel for service opportunities exercises tourism canbolster ifleave intheregion defence growth opportunities, industry direct Beyond aswell. andsupply products enhanced services find theircapacity suppliersto provide will Local sectors. and tourism cattle, horticulture seafood, in thebeef growthInfrastructure potential alsounlock fundingwill of Stanage Baysealing Road. result ofinvestment infrastructure, inlocal suchasthe a greater asa valueregion Coast flow Capricorn to the butitisanticipatedarea, that ensure theexpansion will presently accruesto Central thebroader Queensland year.economy Themajority every ofthisbenefit injectArea anestimated $10million into theregional forceDefence exercises at theShoalwater Bay Training to $140 million dollarsover thenext few years. intheorder activities accommodate of$120 theexpanded improvements to theShoalwater Bay Training to Area Australian Force Defence intends to deliver infrastructure over thenext regions Inaddition,the 10years. Coast approximately $1billion inRockhampton andCapricorn invest will Partnership, theSingaporeGovernment Force estimates that through theComprehensive Strategic to tripleinthenext TheAustralian 20years. Defence doubleandtimeontheground atwill isexpected least Initiative. Forces Thenumber ofSingaporeArmed troops expand Training undertheAustralia Singapore Military intheworld trainingareas andissetto military best asoneofthe Shoalwaterthe region. Bay isrecognised established approximately in1965andoccupies 25%of Shoalwater hectare The 454,000 Bay Training was Area Training Expansion Area Shoalwater Bay region. region. an exciting for Coast growth Capricorn opportunity brighter future for asset.Thispresents coastal thisvalued the Causeway to Lake, aview mapping outamuch with surroundingto identify theconstraints andopportunities iscurrentlyCouncil theState workingwith Government beyond. accessto ,access to support theislands and for and there creating istheopportunity anew oceanside upgrading furniture andother infrastructure alsoneed ramps, amenities,lighting, landscaping, parking, picnic renaissance ofon-the-waterexpected Existing activities. the improvements to to support theshoreline are needed as thefirststep towards restoration. same time,At the dredging Thelakethese activities. desperately needs yet current lake conditionscanonlyminimallysustain skiing, kayaking, boating, andfishing sailing isgrowing, environment to conduct suchas traditionalactivities and environmental functionality. for asafe Demand by siltation,impacted which itsrecreational haslimited theCausewayrecreation activities, severely Lake hasbeen apremierOnce attraction coastal for rangeof awide Revitalisation Causeway Lake 47 Invest Capricorn Coast Region Lower Fitzroy River Infrastructure Station Quarter, Project – Rookwood Weir Yeppoon Heritage Railway Precinct

The proposed $260 million Rookwood Weir will create The Yeppoon railway line was officially closed in 2004 an additional 4,000 ML of water to support high-value creating a vacant 2.4 hectare site in Yeppoon’s Town agricultural and industrial activities in the Capricorn Centre, approximately 1 km from the beach. The Coast region. An additional 1,000 hectares of high- site is currently being master planned by Economic value irrigable crops in the region are possible, with an Development Queensland with a view to redeveloping it. estimated production value of $1 billion. This will create Conceptual plans include a mix of residential, retail and 2,000 brand new jobs across Central Queensland. commercial, bringing new opportunity to the western https://www.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au/assessments- end of the Yeppoon Town Centre. In combination with and-approvals/lower-fitzroy-river-infrastructure-project. the Centre of Excellence for Disaster Management, html Innovation and Community Resilience - ‘The Hub’ and the Yeppoon Foreshore and Town Centre Revitalisation project, the inclusion of the Station Quarter Precinct will transform the Yeppoon Town Centre.

https://www.dilgp.qld.gov.au/economic-development/ yeppoon-heritage-railway-precinct.html 49 Invest Capricorn Coast Region Aspirational Projects

Great Keppel Island Great Keppel Island currently provides a variety of high- quality, largely nature-based visitor experiences including fringing coral reefs and 17 pristine white sandy beaches. No other island in the Great Barrier Reef provides the same amenity. The quality of these natural assets and the island’s close proximity to the coast provides enormous scope for development of new tourist targeted infrastructure and experiences. The island is served by ferry services and a landing strip accommodating a variety of aircraft. Approvals are in place for a premier eco-luxury resort comprising 700 villas, 300 apartments, an 18-hole championship golf course, beachfront hotel comprising 250 5-star suites, day spa, restaurants, swimming pools and retail shops, a 250 berth marina with yacht club and ferry terminal and a commercial airstrip with potential for direct flights to , Brisbane and Cairns. The Queensland Government has committed $25 million towards the construction of water supply and electricity infrastructure to connect Great Keppel Island to mainland services. Great Keppel Island Council is working with the Queensland Government and Great Keppel Island tourism operators to deliver this major project to further facilitate and enhance the realisation of Great Keppel Island’s full development potential as an iconic tourism destination. Capricorn Resort Capricorn Resort is located approximately 10 km north of Yeppoon and encompasses 22,000 acres, including 20 km of beachfront, a 280-room resort and associated amenities such as a restaurant, golf courses and pools. The resort owners are currently preparing an environmental impact statement for a $600 million redevelopment of the site, to include a 300-room five-star resort, Wagyu cattle farm, residential community and village centre, airstrip and refurbishment of the existing 280-room resort.

The closures of the Keppel Island Resort and Capricorn Resorts have had a major impact on the local economy. The redevelopment of one, or preferably both of these resorts will do much to bolster the local economy. Direct Air Link Closure of the during major flood events severely impacts the local economy, often shutting down air-based business activity for weeks at a time. More importantly, however, this projects a message of uncertainty for investors. Development of direct air links catering for regular passenger transport would address this “all too frequent” occurrence, and substantially bolster the Capricorn Resort local tourism sector, particularly the re-developement of Capricorn Resort and Great Keppel Island. Direct air links Opportunities exist to develop uniquenew tourism Opportunities telling, interpretation andexperiential engagement. throughtourism andbusinessappeal appropriate story- to much leveraged enhanceourgeneral that better canbe history hasa richIndigenousandEuropean The region Product ofNew TourismDevelopment ofthevenue.appeal enhancethediversity and wouldmaker further space reality experiences ora uses suchasacinema,virtual and like coincident events. supportive with Development conventions,meetings, trainingworkshops, tradeshows settings for regional event major seeking organisers constitute anenticing draw Coast by the Capricorn for tourism industry. Theabundant attractions provided local ability to attract business andleisure events to grow the would significantly capacity) the increase person region’s development ofaConvention Centre (1,000to 2,000 to hostmajor conventions andtradeshows. The hasnofacilities region Currently Coast theCapricorn Convention Centre tovisitors theregion. generated, whichbe would create asignificant in increase theBruceHighway,with considerably more traffic would it. Ifthere was amajor touring coastal route inparallel to km 40 destination to 50km anddrive access between Highway)(Bruce outthe must andassuch,visitors seek highway notliealongthemajordoes North-South isthat region it A challengefor Coast theCapricorn TouringCoastal Route For Visitors and environmental andcreate jobs. impacts, new local revolution at costs level, abroad-scale toenergy reduce local is extremely to take advantage well positioned ofthis an average of300days ofsunshine ayear, theregion With region. Coast andCapricorn industry the energy are rapidlytransforming Renewable technologies energy StorageAnd Alternative Generation Energy services. transport for futurefurther expansion to enable passenger regular investigated that region couldbe Coast on theCapricorn infrastructure is aconsiderable amount ofexisting airport Finally,access option for trainingservices. military there for anall-weather airport alongwith freight services, accessibility airlinksincreases forDirect businesses local it easyfor interstate to visitors accessthedestination. fashion to Hamilton Island Howe Island andLord making would ofthedestination thereach increase inasimilar

looking for,looking however, often struggle to find. Australian are visitors andoverseas both opportunities farm oraworking cattlea crocodile station. Theseare culture, Aboriginal orafarm-staylocal experience at products that provide memorable engagements with economic opportunities. opportunities. economic to ensure project prioritiesand alignment between discipline fiscalandorganisational requires political, isnotdifficult, however,lap. thisefficiency Achieving landinthecommunity’sdevelopment opportunities ifunforseen for possible shouldplanned 10years be For example, building now aroad that might have been market emerging opportunities. to support delivery to by deliver timingtheir impact greater economic and community growth butthey may prioritised alsobe normaleconomic infrastructure. Theseprojects support the provision andmaintenance ofessential community standardBaseline projects fall within for expectations Enabling Infrastructure Projects • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Community Projects Development Complex Sports events attraction at Barmaryee Sporting strategic linkroad Panorama Drive –northern opportunities sport Promotion climbing ofrock andother unconventional Extension campusto ofCQUni Yeppoon ofMt.JimCrowvicinity alongYeppoon oflookouts Development inthe Road Placemaking initiatives at multiple locations Extension ofexisting Rail Trail Pineapple Redevelopment ofYeppoon showgrounds of anew jetty/pier) Extend Yeppoon Foreshore (includingcreation north infrastructure rampsandmarina numberIncrease ofboat Yeppoon High School and schools ofEmu ParkExpansion High andPrimary Hospital Coast ofCapricorn Expansion gardens ofnew botanical Development Tree andRoss Creeks. Bike-way, across Fig connections includingped-bridge Yeppoon Walk –Roslyn Bay Connections Coastal and expansions gallery art Local 51 Invest Capricorn Coast Region WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP

Economic development is a concerted effort by numerous • Indigenous stakeholders businesses, organisations and government working in • Educational and research facilities partnership together. No community can succeed in isolation, so the Livingstone Shire Council will work with • Community organisations and not-for-profits a variety of partner organisations, including: • Essential service providers such as NBN, Ergon • Local businesses and investors and Telstra.

• Local business and industry organisations Through partnership, all stakeholders can contribute to creating a sustainable economic future and successfully • Capricorn Enterprise delivering the Economic Development Plan. The Economic • Capricornia Chamber of Commerce Development Plan has considered all of the partner strategies that are following this section to ensure a strong • Start-Up Capricorn alignment with all interlinked strategies and plans. This • Other local governments alignment is achieved through the strategic initiatives • Queensland Government (Department of State outlined in this Plan as well as the detailed opportunities Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and that identify focus areas for future growth. Planning, Department of Housing and Public Works, The following partner strategies and plans will work Department of Innovation, Tourism Industry together in partnership with the Invest Capricorn Coast Development, Department of Employment, Region Economic Development Plan. Small Business and Training and other relevant departments)

• Australian Government (Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities “Office of Northern Australia” and other relevant departments) Lead agency: Capricorn Enterprise The Capricorn Destination Tourism Plan is the Capricorn region’s tourism strategy and highlights the resources required to reach the growth priorities of 2020. The destination growth priorities are:

• Support major investments by the private sector

• Secure funding for major public works for tourism - orientated projects

• Target growth in business and sporting events

• Continued financial and product-development support of the Southern Great Barrier Reef destination brand

• Annual experience development mentoring program

• Long-term increase in the events marketing budget

• Promote and develop the potential of the region’s heritage, culture and arts

• Leverage the economic diversity of the region.

Aspirations for the growth of the Capricorn Coast region as a tourist destination are featured throughout the strategy and closely align with the desire to grow tourism product as detailed in this Economic Development Plan.

Lead agency: Advance Queensland Advancing Tourism 2016-20 is the Queensland Government’s plan to grow tourism and jobs. It seeks to capitalise on the opportunity afforded by unprecedented growth in tourism jobs by targeting four priority areas:

• Grow quality products, events and experiences

• Invest in infrastructure and access

• Build a skilled workforce and business capabilities

• Seize the opportunity in Asia.

Lead agency: Office of Northern Australia The White Paper on Developing Northern Australia sets out key policies and initiatives to unlock the North’s vast potential in particular by the development of the Northern Australia Infrastructure Policy (NAIF). The NAIF offers concessional loans up to $5 billion in aggregate for economic infrastructure private-sector investment that benefits Northern Australia. The Capricorn Coast region is included in the footprint of the Northern Australia area. The Australian Government’s future agenda for growth in the north also includes:

• Better use of land and water resources

• A welcoming investment environment

• Improved governance and reduced regulatory burden

• Investment in infrastructure to lower costs for businesses and households

• A skilled workforce that meets the growing needs of the north

• Enhanced air, land and sea transport links to, from and within the north. 53 Lead agency: Queensland Government The Queensland Government is working to advance and diversify ’s economy. The Capricorn Coast region is included in the footprint of the North Queensland area. The Advancing North Queensland strategy includes five priority areas to drive growth and jobs:

• Roads infrastructure

• Water security

• Research and innovation

• Tourism, trade and investment

• North Queensland Stadium.

Lead agency: Trade and Investment Queensland The Queensland Trade and Investment Strategy 2017– 2022 is a plan for cooperation between governments, businesses, educational institutions and local councils to create jobs by tapping into the immense opportunities being created by expanding international markets.

The Strategy seeks to achieve two aspirational targets:

• Increase Queensland’s share of national overseas exports to 22% and maintain this through to 2022

• Increase the number of investment outcomes facilitated by the Queensland Government by 20% by 2022

• With a focus on international investment attraction, the Economic Development Plan aligns closely to this strategy. existing workers to inachangingworkforce. reskill, sothey canparticipate as this,are inplaceto skills provide students with for thefuture, while supporting workforce remains areas inregional achallenge, soitisessential that strategiessuch that maintaining PlanThe EconomicDevelopment andattracting recognises askilled • • • for action: consultation draftof“Advancing skills for thefuture” focuses priority onthree areas development growth. The industry andeconomic andsupports their life prospects areworld, able allQueenslanders to access–high- quality trainingthat improves forvision Vocational Education and Training to ensure (VET) that inachanging Government’s setsouttheQueensland education andtraininginQueensland The consultation draftof“Advancing skills for thefuture” astrategyfor vocational ofEducation Department agency: Lead are aware of,andare taking advantage programs. of,government fundingandsupport facilitate forbusinesses andwill growth businesses by sure opportunities making local development, theStrategy’sindustry closelyalignswith desire tosmall empower businessand itsstrategicfocus Plan, onlocal The EconomicDevelopment with businesses grow, innovate andtake advantage ofdigital opportunities. smallbusinessesto opportunity.connecting that Itputsinplaceprograms helpsmall and delivery for andcoordinated service advocacy smallbusiness,simplified The Advancing Strategy2016-20focuses SmallBusiness onstronger Queensland Queensland Office ofSmall Business agency: Lead Access andparticipation. A quality system​ andinnovation Industry 55 Invest Capricorn Coast Region For further information, contact: LUCID Livingstone ECONOMICS Shire Council’s Economy and Places team Ph: 07 4913 5000 or 1300 790 919 E: [email protected]

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LUCID ECONOMICS

APRIL 2018

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