Economic Overview

A thriving and diverse region

"Economic development involves the creation of wealth through an increase in business activity, profitable output, investment, employment and income, all of which generate benefits for the community."

Local Economic Statistics

The Parkes Shire boasts a strong, diverse economy, with a Gross Regional Product (GRP) of over $1 billion per year. The economy is underpinned by the key industries of agriculture and mining, but also has a strong transport and logistics industry, retail and public sector.

Parkes Shire Council endeavours to ensure that all communities within the Shire have a thriving local economy. A strong economy means more job opportunities, a vibrant community spirit, a growing population and greater access to education and health care services. It all adds up to a positive lifestyle maintained by essential growth and prosperity.

Growing and diversifying the economic base of the Shire is one of the key strategic objectives outlined in the Parkes Shire Community Strategic Plan. Council has adopted an Economic Development Plan to guide decision making in the areas of supporting existing local businesses, promoting the Parkes Shire, attracting investment and lobbying.

Promote

Council actively promotes the Parkes Shire as a place to invest and do business. Council is keen to hear about industries, business and suppliers that would benefit your business and the Shire. If your business is expanding or relocating the EBDM can assist by facilitating meetings with Council staff. Council is developing a newsletter which will feature local business success stories that will be used to promote the Shire to potential investors and residents.

Facilitate

The EBDM’s role is to facilitate greater investment and information flow by encouraging partnerships, hosting networking activities and providing business development opportunities. Throughout the coming year Council intends to host a series of industry events and will invite guest speakers to talk about current issues. If there is a topic that you believe would be of benefit please contact the EBDM.

Plan

Support

Advocate and Lobby

Council regularly meets with the local Federal and State Member of Parliament, and also corresponds with State and Federal Ministers. Council’s EBDM can, on your behalf, lobby government when your business has been adversely affected by a decision, or would benefit from a change in government policy or process.

Council lobbies government on behalf of the community for major infrastructure projects, such as Peak Hill Multi-Purpose Centre, Parkes Hospital, Parkes Police Station, upgrades to the Airport, roads and highways, the Melbourne to Brisbane Inland Rail, and for the National Broadband Network (NBN). Projects like these are important to the economy.

Below is a snapshop of Parkes Shire Council's top 8 priorities:

Parkes Shire Council's Top 8 Priorities

Provide Services

Economic and Business Development Manager

Parkes Shire Council has appointed an Economic and Business Development Manager (EBDM) for the purpose of assisting local businesses in reaching their goals.

For more information or to discuss how Council can help your business achieve its goals, please contact the Economic and Business Development Manager - Anna Wyllie.