Agenda of Business and Employment Development Committee

Minutes of the Business and Employment Development Committee

Meeting Date: Wednesday, 30 November 2016

Location: Jervis Bay Rooms, City Administrative Centre, Bridge Road, Nowra

Time: 4.00 pm

The following members were present:

Mr John Lamont – Chairperson

Clr Amanda Findley – left 4.40pm

Clr Joanna Gash

Clr John Wells

Clr Patricia White

Clr John Levett

Clr Mitchell Pakes

Clr Mark Kitchener – arrived 4.05pm

Clr Greg Watson

Clr Bob Proudfoot

Mr David Goodman

Ms Teresa Bourke – for Robbie Collins

Mr Adrian Stam

Mr Steven Bayer

Ms Lexie Meyer

Ms Donna Payne – for Paul Goodwin

Mr Peter Dryer

Mr Russ Pigg – General Manager

Others Present:

Mr Greg Pullen - Economic Development Manager

Mr Tim Fletcher – Director Planning and Development Services

Ms Marianne Jones – Economic Development Officer

Ms Cathy Bern – Development Services Section Manager

Note: The Business and Employment Development Committee reaffirmed that John Lamont remain the Chairperson of the Committee.

Apologies / Leave of Absence

Apologies were received from Clr Alldrick, Clr Cheyne, Hon Shelley Hancock MP, Fiona Hatcher and James Coburn.

Confirmation of the Minutes

resolved (David Goodman / Clr Wells)

That the Minutes of the meeting of the Business and Employment Development Committee held on Wednesday 25 May 2016 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Nil

Reports

BE16.8 Development in the Shoalhaven - Significant Projects

HPERM Ref: D16/346341

Cathy Bern advised that the spreadsheets provided are a snapshot of all the developments that are approved and in the system. Please note that this is not necessarily what has been built or currently under construction.

The Business and Employment Development Committee requested that those that are under construction could be highlighted in a separate spreadsheet and advised that the Committee would benefit from being advised of the reasons of why those Development Applications are stalled and are remaining inactive i.e. needing further assistance. Cathy Bern advised that Commercial Developers may have in confidence reasons for not wanting to explain their reasons.

Note: Clr Kitchener arrived, the time being 4.06pm.

The Committee asked whether it would be possible to merge the information provided with the report regarding Employment Activity e.g. at the Race track.

The Committee requested the list to be more comprehensive and include Development Applications that were activated over 20-25years old, e.g. Children’s Child Care Centre at Cunjurong Point, the Community Swimming Pool, Children at Risk Developments etc.

Planning and Development Services are receiving close to 3,000 Development Applications per annum. This makes it difficult to isolate that data. This spreadsheet provided is a historic spreadsheet. The Committee were encouraged to let Development Services staff know any that they are aware of that could be added.

The Committee discussed the equity of fees and charges across Subdivision Applications in relation to 64 and 94 contributions. The Committee were advised that Developers are made aware of what the fees will be when they lodge the applications. Shoalhaven City Council also relies on the good faith of the applicant. There will be variations due to locations and individual circumstances.

Clr Wells requested that Hawthorn Ave be clarified as the value stated is $48mil.

Shoalhaven City Council are not advised of those that are lodged straight through the Department of Planning, however, with respect to information the Committee is seeking i.e. the Development Applications that are being stalled, most of these applications are from Manildra and most are in motion and under construction.

Future development and employment trends could be beneficial to the Committee if these could be correlated and calculated.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That:

1. The report of the General Manager (Planning and Development Services) regarding the update on development ‘in the Shoalhaven be received for information.

2. Consideration be given to the information presented to the Committee with a view to informing staff accordingly.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr White)

That:

1. The report of the General Manager (Planning and Development Services) regarding the update on development ‘in the Shoalhaven be received for information.

2. Staff take on board comments made for future reports.

CARRIED

BE16.1 Economic Update and Employment Land Activity

HPERM Ref: D16/351798

Greg Pullen, Economic Development Manager advised that these spreadsheets are provided as a snapshot of the current employment industry. There are statistics that date back to 1984 that are available.

Although the unemployment rate is consistently high, the youth unemployment statistics are not as readily available, however a reason behind our youth employment being higher than the NSW average is that Shoalhaven youth tend to remain in the area.

The Shoalhaven population growth is about 1.2%, the employment is growing at 2.1% steadily.

With Government Capex the decline shown between 2011 and 2012 was predicted 18 months prior. There is another decline that is predicted for 2019-2020, this is to be monitored.

It was advised that Shoalhaven City Council has made an application to buy Crown Land at Ulladulla, this has been stalled due to Aboriginal land claim resolution.

Greg Pullen advised that most employment land purchases are local i.e. renters that are looking to buy, others are companies from TAS, Sydney and Wollongong in the manufacturing, distribution or service industry.

The Committee enquired whether statistics are available for future trends in regard to population increases and the impact on the economy? Greg Pullen advised that between 2006 and 2008 with the GFC growth slowed, and the economy is now increasing again, and, land releases would accelerate. Tim Fletcher advised that the increased rate of lot releases within the last 12 months is drastic and has not seen before, this is reflected through the population increase. The lot release applications are higher than dwelling applications.

There are no statistics for under-employment or casual employment.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report by the Economic Development Manager on Economic trends and employment land activity be received for information.

RESOLVED (Peter Dryer / Lexie Meyer)

That the report by the Economic Development Manager on Economic trends and employment land activity be received for information.

CARRIED

BE16.2 Business Development Program - Economic Development Office

HPERM Ref: D16/354490

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the Business Development Program co-ordinated by the Economic Development Office be received for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr Findley)

That the report on the Business Development Program co-ordinated by the Economic Development Office be received for information.

CARRIED

BE16.3 School to Work Transition Programs

HPERM Ref: D16/354634

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the School to Work Transition Programs be received for information.

RESOLVED (Steven Bayer / Clr Wells)

That the report on the School to Work Transition Programs be received for information.

CARRIED

BE16.4 Nowra Buskers Series and Nowra CBD Street Flags in Jelly Bean Park	HPERM Ref: D16/354599
It was advised that the Nowra Makers Markets are not run by Shoalhaven City Council, it is run by East Nowra Pride but hosted by Shoalhaven City Council in Jelly Bean Park.
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That the report on the Nowra Buskers Series in Jelly Bean Park be received for information.
RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Clr White) That the report on the Nowra Buskers Series in Jelly Bean Park be received for information. CARRIED

BE16.5 Major Grant Applications by Council

HPERM Ref: D16/354555

It was advised that following an unsuccessful application for “Beyond Nerriga” Transport for NSW sought greater detail regarding construction regime, implementation and knowledge of freight, origins and destinations. Goulburn Mulwaree Council and Shoalhaven City Council were provided advance notice of the 2017 grant rounds and were requested to submit an application.

Note: Clr Findley left the meeting, the time being, 4.40pm

Council is addressing the situation by the elimination of the 15t limit by working with Goulburn Mulwaree Council on a submission for grant funding.

There is also a new developer of an industry in the Bomaderry Region which is estimated to move 50-100t per week from the MIA.

The works on Turpentine Road are virtually complete.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on HVSPP, Fixing Country Roads and Fixing Country Rail be received for information.

RESOLVED (Lexie Meyer / David Goodman)

That the report on HVSPP, Fixing Country Roads and Fixing Country Rail be received for information.

CARRIED

BE16.6 South Nowra Freight Corridor Upgrade	HPERM Ref: D16/354662
The road works at South Nowra have experienced a major upgrade and the utility relocations by NBN or Telstra commenced last week. In 2017 construction works will increase and be completed in 2017.
Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority) That the report on the South Nowra Freight Corridor Upgrade be received for information
RESOLVED (Peter Dryer / Lexie Meyer) That the report on the South Nowra Freight Corridor Upgrade be received for information CARRIED

BE16.7 BioMarine 2016

HPERM Ref: D16/361871

Shoalhaven City has a product that will be on the shelf in the USA in the early New Year. Most of the other countries involved are still at the developing and researching phase. The Shoalhaven however, does not have enough capacity to produce the algae. The solution is to build a larger plant further out towards Shoalhaven Heads.

It was advised that employment has increased from 1 person to 5 already at Venus Shell Systems.

John Lamont advised that two staff had jointly finished degrees, one at honours level and the other at PhD level.

It is estimated in early January product will be sent overseas and in the long-term will create 2 new jobs.

The Blue Bio Tech project is progressing significantly.

The base production is still in measurements of kilograms per month in, however, in the future this will be tonnes per month.

Note: Clr Kitchener, left the meeting, the time being 4.52pm.

Another company at South Nowra is producing tablets from algae and another in Bomaderry is polishing the tablets.

In Oslo Greg Pullen met with someone who was able to produce Omega 3 (usually in liquid form) into powder and therefore tablet form. The Blue Bio Tech Group sought to manufacture under license for the Australian and US Market . There are five people at the Essence Group.

A report will be submitted to Council within the first quarter on the progress of Blue Bio Tech.

Note: Clr Kitchener returned to the meeting, the time being 4.54.

The result is employment growth across 4-5 businesses.

The Bank identified in the report that is interested in investing in the project is the Norwegian National Bank, this bank understands the need to invest in aquaculture.

Recommendation

Resolve that

i. The report of the Economic Development Manager on the attendance by representatives of Blue BioTech Shoalhaven to BioMarine 2016 in Oslo be accepted.

ii. Council congratulate Blue BioTech Shoalhaven on the initiative being shown to develop a new innovative industry sector based on aquatic biotechnology here in the Shoalhaven.

iii. The Economic Development Office submit an application to host a future BioMarine in Shoalhaven, if considered feasible to achieve a break even result.

Recommend to Council

i. That it adopt a “Small Business Lens” on the development of future policies and the renewal of existing policies as they fall due.

Recommendation (Clr Wells / Lexie Meyer)

That

1. The report of the Economic Development Manager on the attendance by representatives of Blue BioTech Shoalhaven to BioMarine 2016 in Oslo be accepted.

2. Council congratulate Blue BioTech Shoalhaven on the initiative being shown to develop a new innovative industry sector based on aquatic biotechnology here in the Shoalhaven.

3. The Economic Development Office submit an application to host a future BioMarine conference in Shoalhaven, if considered feasible to achieve a break even result.

4. Council adopt a “Small Business Lens” on the development of future policies and the renewal of existing policies as they fall due.

CARRIED

BE16.8 Development In The Shoalhaven - Significant Projects

HPERM Ref: D16/346341

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting.

GENERAL BUSINESS

BE16.9 Motorcycle NSW

Clr Gash advised that herself and Clr White were invited and attended the Motorcycle NSW event in Penrith. The doors were closed when the capacity reached 520 people and the wait list was above the 600 mark. The ages of participants were 5years upwards. Clr Gash commented on their appearance i.e. each had a suit and neat hair. Clr Gash suggested that some of those participants be invited to the meetings regarding the Yerriyong Motor Sport Complex.

BE16.10 Shoalhaven Business Chamber Business Chamber of the Year 2016

Russ Pigg advised it was reported in the South Coast Register that the Shoalhaven Business Chamber was named Business Chamber of the Year at the 2016 State Business Gala Awards.

RESOLVED (By consent)

That the Business and Employment Development Committee congratulate the Shoalhaven Business Chamber on their efforts and that they be commended.

CARRIED

BE16.11 Yerriyong Motor Sport Complex Update

It was advised that the Yerriyong Motor Sport Complex would be reported back to the Joint Regional Planning Panel (JRPP) in early 2017. A meeting was held with the consultant and the Office of Environment and Heritage regarding information that the JRPP had requested in relation to the flora and fauna impact. After all the information has been received by Shoalhaven City Council staff, a supplementary report will be submitted to the JRPP including the new information and a date will be scheduled for the JRPP to make a decision.

BE16.12 Regional Development Australia - South Coast Skills Audit

Regional Development Australia (RDA) has conducted a South Coast Skills Audit. The audit provides information of the extent of current skills shortages and the future needs of the South Coast. A report will be available prior to Christmas and will be electronically sent to members of the Business and Employment Development Committee.

BE16.13 South Coast Youth Leadership Awards

The South Coast Youth Leadership Awards were held in October and were successful. John Lamont thanked the Economic Development Team including Marianne Jones who organised the meeting rooms and lunches. John Lamont also thanked the Mayor for addressing the young leaders. John believes it is a success due to the strong input from Shoalhaven City Council.

BE16.14 Changes to TAFE NSW

For 25 years regionally based TAFEs have been independent and this model is now being disbanded. There will be changes state wide. This will include a promotional campaign and rebranding of TAFE as one entity. It will be a while before significant changes seen. Private providers competed with TAFE previously and there were different courses, units etc. being provided for the same qualification. Now if an NRMA employee undertakes a TAFE training course it will be the same course and units across the state that is provided.

BE16.15 Business Development Strategy Press Release

The Deputy Premier has created a press release regarding the new/revised Business Development Strategy and this will be reported to the Business and Employment Development Committee.

Note: John Lamont, Chairperson wished members and those present a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 5.13pm.

John Lamont

CHAIRPERSON

Business and Employment Development Committee – Monday 13 February 2017

Page 9

BE17.1 REMPLAN - Economic Performance Software

HPERM Ref: D17/30213

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Economic Development

Attachments: 1. Business and Employment Development Committee - REMPLAN Key Propulsive Sectors Report ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To inform the Committee and member organisations of the existence and use of a Regional Economic Software tool used by Council.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on REMPLAN be received for information

Options

1. The recommendation be accepted as written

2. An alternative recommendation be proposed.

Background

Council, as well as several other regional Councils and organisations, some years ago purchased a software package that is built upon the economic databases of the various government agencies – ABS, Aust Tax Office, DEEWR, Treasury, ….

The datasets appear at 2 levels:

1. The public profile for Shoalhaven which appears at - http://www.economicprofile.com.au/Shoalhaven/ , and

2. The analytical tool which can undertake more detailed economic analysis based on anticipated results and business decisions.

Examples of the public domain information are:

• Shoalhaven Gross Regional Product - $4.895 billion an increase of $457m over the last year and $1.1b in the 3 year period since January 2013

• Shoalhaven Wages & Salaries

• Shoalhaven Value-Added by Industry

• Regional exports by Industry sector

• Shoalhaven Workers in retail trade by hours worked

• Number of Shoalhaven Businesses by employment size

As part of the analytical tool, analysis of the impact of scenarios can be examined:

• The construction of $135m of defence hangar facilities will create 220 direct jobs, 380 industry flow-on jobs and 254 further jobs across the community totalling 854, with a total wages & salaries inflow into the economy of $72.1m

• The creation of 100 additional jobs in the finance sector will create 78 additional jobs; for Health Care Services it will be 37 additional jobs; for manufacturing it will be 122 jobs. Similarly the reverse is applicable – for 100 jobs lost in manufacturing would create the total effect on local jobs as an additional 222 jobs lost.

A copy of the REMPLAN report on the key propulsive sectors within the Shoalhaven economy is attached.

This economic planning tool was originally developed by La Trobe University with co-operation from the Australian Government and its agencies. It provides the opportunity for comparative data and analysis benchmarked against national, state and local data. The use of this tool can provide Council and other organisations with information to verify, support or reject economic projections provided by government agencies and developers.

REMPLAN has been used by Council (and others) to support the case for economic benefits for grant submissions including:

• South Nowra Freight Services Corridor – Flinders Rd

• Motor Sports facility at Yerriyong

• Ulladulla Harbour berthing facility

• Bundanon Trust – facilities expansion

• “beyond Nerriga” road project

The report to the Business and Employment Development Committee regarding project yet to commence now includes a column for:

• the number of jobs to be created during the construction phase (buff colour)

• the number of ongoing jobs (blue column)

Economic, Social & Environmental (ESD) Considerations

In National and State grant applications there is a strong emphasis on economic growth or productivity gain. The use of REMPLAN allows Council to model outcomes with a tool that funding agencies appreciate is reflective of government financial trends and multipliers.

From the above and consistent use of REMPLAN demonstrates that it is not necessarily the quantum of any development that can benefit the community but what it can potentially deliver by way of economic outcomes.

Financial Implications

The cost of the REMPLAN software package, including regular data updates has been annually renewed in 2016 from the Economic Development budget. All sections of Council have access to the software once trained.

Business and Employment Development Committee – Monday 13 February 2017

Page 16

BE17.2 Shoalhaven Economic Development Strategy - Update

HPERM Ref: D17/31140

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Economic Development

Purpose / Summary

To bring the Committee up to date with the review process being undertaken to update Council’s 10 year Economic Development Strategy.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the update of the Council’s Economic Development Strategy be received by the Business and Employment Development Committee for information.

Options

1. The recommendation be accepted as written

2. An alternative recommendation be proposed.

Background

Shoalhaven Council has had 2 prior 10 year Economic Development Strategies:

• 1996 – “Creating a Platform for Growth”

• 2006 – “Shoalhaven – an enterprising alternative”.

In 2016 the process commenced to create the next strategy to cover the period 2017-2026. A request to consultants was made in July 2016 to submit a proposal to undertake the work. These proposal was assessed by a Steering Committee comprising:

• Greg Pullen, Economic Development Manager

• Gordon Clark, Strategic Planning Manager

• John Lamont, Managing Director, NowChem; Chair of the BED Committee

• Megan Cleary, Business Development Manager – South Coast , NSW Dept of Industry

• Megan Hutchison, Economic Development Manager, Kiama Council

Locale Consulting was appointed in August/September 2016.

A draft of the document was prepared in late 2016 and was submitted to the Steering Committee in January 2017 and comprises the Shoalhaven Economic Development Strategy 2017-2026 and three internal support documents which give direction to the working activities of Council, especially the Economic Development Office.

The Economic Development Strategy has 10 chapters/sections

1. Overview

2. Strategic Context

3. Existing Economic Situation

4. Economic Drivers and Competitive Advantages

5. Achieving a Positive Future

6. Broad Based Actions

7. Key Industry Actions

8. Key Partners and Leadership

9. Implementation and Monitoring .

This Strategy provides an implementation platform for the many and varied economic development opportunities that have been identified through detailed stakeholder discussions and review of several local, regional, state and Federal level initiatives. The

Strategy also builds on the Council’s Community Strategic Plan’s prosperity objectives to create:

- An economy with growing employment opportunities based on Shoalhaven’s distinct characteristics, advantages and natural qualities;

- An economy that supports and is supported by growing, diverse and changing communities; and

- Effective promotion of Shoalhaven’s investment, business and job opportunities, lifestyle attractions and vision.

The draft document is being reviewed by the Steering Committee and a Councillor briefing has been scheduled for early March. Other stakeholders involved in the process will have an opportunity to review the Strategy also in March.

The aim is to have the Strategy formally presented to Council in March (after the Councillor briefing) and placed on exhibition for a period to enable it to be formally adopted at the April round of Council meetings.

The Shoalhaven Economic Development Strategy is an overall Council document and has implications across all areas of Council but more specifically to the following sections:

· General Manager’s Group

o Economic Development Office

o Executive Strategy Section

· Planning & Development Group

o Strategic Planning Section

o Development Planning Section

· Community & Financial Services Group

o Recreational Planning Section

o Tourism Section

· Assets & Works Group

o Project Delivery

o Property Section

It also requires the Council/EDO to work with:

· Business Sector Groups

o Shoalhaven Business Chamber

o Shoalhaven Defence Industry Group

o Shoalhaven Professional Business Association

o Industry sector networks

· External agencies

o Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation

o Dept of Defence

o NSW Industry

o RDAs

o Funding agencies

o NBN

o UoW, TAFE & other RTOs

Community Engagement

As part of the consultant’s role, targeted individual stakeholder meetings were held with representatives of Council Executive, relevant Section Managers, government agency representatives (Joint Organisation, RDA, Premier and Cabinet, NSW Industry), external organisations (TAFE, UoW), business organisations (Chamber, SPBA) and others over the second half of 2016.

It is proposed that these groups/representatives will be asked to review the DRAFT Strategy and this will be reported to Council in the adoption report.

Policy Implications

As outlined in the Community Strategic Plan, the “prosperity” of the Shoalhaven is a core focus for Council.

The implications of this 10 year Economic Development Strategy will need to fold out across all Council in its delivery.

Financial Implications

Council will need to assess the Economic Development Strategy in its budget determination and provide the necessary resources to deliver as it sees fit.

Business and Employment Development Committee – Monday 13 February 2017

Page 19

BE17.3 Economic Development Industry Sector Strategies

HPERM Ref: D17/30642

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Economic Development

Purpose / Summary

To report the status of a number of Economic Development Industry Sector strategies to the Business and Employment Development Committee.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the status of Economic Development Industry Sector strategies be received for information.

Options

1. The recommendation be accepted as written

2. An alternative recommendation be proposed.

Background

The Economic Development Office has developed a number of industry sector strategies. These strategies guide the work of the office and identify potential opportunities for economic development. The need for industry sector strategies, and the subsequent requirement for Council to produce such strategies, is identified under both Council’s Delivery Program and Operational Plan, as well as Council’s Economic Development strategy Shoalhaven – an enterprising alternative. The Economic Development Office is currently reviewing its 10 year strategy.

The following diagram demonstrates the relationship between Council’s strategic planning documents and industry sector strategies. Each industry is studied and trends, issues and opportunities are identified. This forms the basis of the sector strategies. Each strategy contains a number of actions to address industry issues and take advantage of identified opportunities. These actions are then captured within the Delivery Program and Operational Plan process thus guiding the work of the Economic Development Office.

The Economic Development Office has developed the following Sector Strategies:

· Agri-business Sector Strategy (November 2010)

· Defence Sector Strategy (September 2011)

· Digital Economy Sector Strategy (January 2012)

· Medical Education Sector Strategy (December 2013)

· Aquatic Biotechnology Sector Strategy (May 2014)

The Economic Development Office has identified a number of other sectors for which a strategy could be developed being the Logistics, transport and warehousing sector and the Aged Care sector. It is expected that the new 10 year Economic Development Strategy will also identify other potential areas of opportunity that need to be explored through the strategy development process.

Agri-business Sector Strategy

The Agri-business Sector Strategy was the first in a series of industry strategies developed to further refine the work of the Economic Development Office of Shoalhaven City Council.

Developed in 2010, the purpose of the strategy is to provide clear direction for Council’s involvement in the agri-business industry sector. The agricultural sector, while not one of the largest industries in the region (in terms of employment, output, wages and value added) is still significant and plays a key role in establishing the character of the area. Primary production is an important economic driver and grows the commodities needed in other industries.

The Agri-business Sector Strategy identifies a number of issues and opportunities that can be addressed/leveraged to benefit the industry and the broader Shoalhaven community.

Agri-business Sector Strategic Objectives include:

1. To provide for the on-going variability of a range of agri-business sectors through appropriate land use planning

2. To maintain the sense of rural aesthetic synonymous with the Shoalhaven

3. To ensure that growth of the agri-business can be achieved through intensification of the industry in appropriate circumstances

4. To provide opportunities for, and to promote, direct contact between consumers and producers wherever possible

5. To establish an understanding of the agri-business sector through education, training and mentoring programs

6. To provide for active support in developing and encouraging growth of new and existing agri-business enterprises

This strategy is due for review. A number of actions have been completed e.g.;

• Commence regular fortnightly or monthly twilight farmers markets under the current approval in the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre (SEC) forecourt

• Convene and co-ordinate interested parties and establish contact and/or appropriate arrangements for inclusion in the Hawkesbury Harvest publication

While other actions are no longer relevant as progress has surpassed the outcome of the action e.g.;

• Continue to work as required with the Shoalhaven Marine and Freshwater Centre to develop and implement aquaculture opportunities within the Shoalhaven (now achieved through support of Blue BioTech Shoalhaven)

• Continue to lobby the State Government to support the establishment of aquaculture in Jervis Bay through the preparation of environmental assessment and “implementation ready” lease plots (DPI has awarded 50Ha of lease area in Jervis Bay to Blue Harvest).

As at December 2016 the Agribusiness Sector employed 575 directly but involved other businesses in the related business support areas like animal care; transport; IT etc. This business sector is becoming more technical in its implementation and is dependent on seasons but to a lesser extent with examples like irrigation for dairy productivity.

Each additional job in Agriculture creates $229,000 in value add to the Shoalhaven economy and 0.57 additional flow on equivalent jobs

The strategy will be reviewed in 2016/2017.

Defence Sector Strategy

The Defence sector has been a key component of the Shoalhaven economy with major industries being developed around Defence activities primarily at HMAS Albatross and HMAS Creswell. Council has sought to work closely with Defence, establishing the purpose designed Albatross Aviation Technology Park (AATP) to cater for Defence related industries with direct airfield access to HMAS Albatross.

This Sector Strategy is based on a series of strategies and actions that support and address issues within the Defence sector as a whole or within individual segments of that industry. Council intends to provide on-going support for existing, established and potential new Defence sector industries and this strategy provides a basis for that support.

The Strategy contains 6 Strategic Objectives and 14 related actions. Objectives are as follows:

1. To promote the positive relationship and history between Defence and the Shoalhaven

2. To provide for the on-going viability of Defence establishments including HMAS Albatross, HMAS Creswell and the Beecroft Peninsula through appropriate land use planning.

3. To encourage the growth of Defence capability in the region by ensuring Defence related industries are effectively catered for in the area.

4. To assist in ensuring that infrastructure of an appropriate quality and capacity are available to Defence establishments

5. To provide opportunities for, and to promote, direct contact between Defence, Defence Industry and non-Defence industry participants.

6. To encourage the growth in non-Defence aviation and other activities through a co-operative relationship between Defence, Defence industries and others where appropriate.

In 2014 it was announced that Shoalhaven City Council was to receive $1.87M in funding over 2 years towards the cost of additional subdivision works within the AATP, the extension of the taxiway and electricity augmentation. Shoalhaven City Council received the funding via NSW Trade & Investment under the Regional Infrastructure Investment Fund.

The AATP is now a vital part of the employment landscape and provides many technical job opportunities and training places. Further expansion of the AATP is envisaged and the work with Dept of Defence and defence contractors will continue as the current and future projects unfold.

The development of industry sector strategies provides Council, via the Economic Development Office, with clear direction but also demonstrates long term and strategic commitment for industry enhancement to state and federal funding bodies.

As at December 2016 the Defence Sector employed 1445 directly but involved other businesses in the related defence support areas like aircraft maintenance; warehousing; IT etc. This sector is becoming more outsourced in its delivery and is dependent on contracting organisations that perform other business activities in the local, state and national marketplace.

Each additional job in Defence creates $429,000 in value add to the Shoalhaven economy and 0.93 additional flow on equivalent jobs

Digital Economy Sector Strategy

The purpose of this strategy is to guide the Economic Development Office’s involvement in the emerging digital economy sector and to assist business, residents and visitors in/to the area to engage with its potential. The digital economy is rapidly evolving. This strategy is different than other sector strategies in that it is a more forward looking document that investigates opportunities for a new industry sector, rather than relying on identifying trends and changes within an existing industry sector.

Strategic objectives include:

1. To enhance the capability of networks providers, such as the NBN Co, to deliver necessary infrastructure to facilitate a sustainable digital economy.

2. To ensure delivery of infrastructure by the NBN Co is undertaken in a smooth and efficient manner that has minimal impacts on the environment, community and businesses

3. To educate businesses in the economic and efficiency gains that can be made through application of broadband technologies and the digital economy

4. To educate the community as to the social, economic, employment and environmental benefits that can be achieved through technology advance

5. To ensure Council’s policies and activities seek utilisation of digital advances to the collective benefit of the Shoalhaven

A separate report on the rollout of the NBN is included within the business paper to the Business & Employment Development Committee.

As at December 2016 the IT, Computer and Telecommunications Sector employed 411 directly but involved other businesses in the related areas. This sector is becoming more specialised delivering services to both business and community. Several larger organisations directly contract to the Dept of Defence.

Each additional job in Defence creates $382,000 in value add to the Shoalhaven economy and 1.05 additional flow on equivalent jobs

Medical Education Sector Strategy

Over the last decade, one of the most significant economic trends has been the growth in health industries associated with an ageing population, increases in lifestyle related disease and changing attitudes to personal health and wellness. This strategy seeks to recognise and facilitate the medical education sector as part of this broader trend in the Shoalhaven.

Council intends to provide support and encourage the introduction of the necessary infrastructure and coordination required to ensure that medical education is one of the core focuses for tertiary education in the region. In doing so, there is greater scope to attract and retain high quality health professionals and the residents of the Shoalhaven would be rewarded with subsequent improved health care, economic diversity and employment opportunities associated with the high value of the sector.

Australia has a strong history in the area of medical training, education and research, with the Shoalhaven increasingly being exposed to the sector through historical development of the Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital, establishment of the Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre and presence of the University of Wollongong’s Graduate School of Medicine including degree’s in nursing and medicine. By strategically identifying and positioning the Shoalhaven to build on this platform, significant economic and employment opportunities exist.

Strategic objectives include:

1. To provide a clear planning rationale for coordinated development of medical education opportunities through establishment of a “Shoalhaven Medical Campus”

2. To work co-operatively with tertiary institutions to identify and pursue opportunities for growth in medical education in the Shoalhaven

3. To work with existing medical and other education providers to establish networks and opportunities within established practice

4. To identify and pursue opportunities for the medical education sector to cross-over into more established industry sectors within the Shoalhaven

5. To advocate to the community the social, economic and employment benefits that can be achieved through a proactive position in the medical education industry.

As at December 2016 the Medical Education Sector was quite small but involved various education and medical service providers.

Aquatic Biotechnology Sector Strategy

This is the latest in a series of industry sector strategies developed to guide the work of the Economic Development Office with actions designed to leverage off identified opportunities. Aquatic biotechnology involves the use of marine and freshwater based living systems (including the application and processing of bio resources linked to fresh or marine water) to develop or make useful products. Council intends to provide on-going support for existing, emerging and potential new Aquatic Biotechnology industries and this strategy provides a basis for that support.

The Aquatic Biotechnology sector is newly emerging in the Shoalhaven. A range of diverse sectors are coming together to form this industry in our region and Council looks forward to a continued positive and productive relationship with the Aquatic Biotechnology business sector and its industry participants.

Strategic objectives include:

1. To advocate for and coordinate the establishment of an Aquatic Biotechnology industry hub in the Shoalhaven

2. To work with existing leaders in the Aquatic Biotechnology industry within the Shoalhaven to establish networks and opportunities to grow the industry.

3. To work co-operatively with tertiary institutions to identify and purse opportunities for growth in the Aquatic Biotechnology industry in the Shoalhaven

4. To educate the community as to the social, economic, employment and environmental benefits that can be achieved through establishing the Shoalhaven as an Aquatic Biotechnology industry hub

5. To undertake promotional activities, including appropriate marketing, conference attendance and trade show participation, to affirm the Shoalhaven as a key location for Aquatic Biotechnology activities

6. To maintain the sense of clean water and clean coastline synonymous with the Shoalhaven

This has been a very successful strategy and the Economic Development Office has completed a number of actions including:

• Establish an Aquatic Biotechnology sector expansion group/committee

• Through the expansion group/committee establish a clear outline of the project at that are eligible for grant funding and that could support the Industry sector and to ensure that Council is ready to make submissions whenever available

• To establish/develop the brand “Blue BioTech Shoalhaven”

• Promote Aquatic Biotechnology to relevant stakeholders, through sponsoring and attending the 5^th Congress of the International Society for Applied Phycology in Sydney in June 2014

• As required, facilitate consultation between the expansion group/committee and others where opportunities exist for co-operation around various issues

• Promote Aquatic Biotechnology to relevant markets, including the growing nutraceutical market within Australia at any relevant expos of business events.

• Continue to lobby state and local government to ensure any aquaculture applications, such as the application to licence up to 50ha of Jervis Bay for the purposes of growing marine algae and shellfish, are assessed in a timely and reasonable manner.

• Promote aquaculture as part of the local agribusiness sector

• Continue to involve and educate relevant state agencies in relation to Aquatic Biotechnology practices.

As at December 2016 the Aquatic BioTechnology Sector was quite small but was expanding through local business collaborations.

Industry Sector Strategies are an important method of linking actions/work output of the Economic Development Office to the aims of the Economic Development Strategy and then the Community Strategic Plan. They are important documents that guide the strategic direction of the office and are integral in demonstrating economic outcomes to external funding bodies.

Community Engagement

Industry sector strategies have been adopted by Council after being on public display. The strategies are also available on the Economic Development website.

Policy Implications

The relationship between Industry Sector Strategies and the Community Strategic Plan is outlined in the report.

Financial Implications

The Economic Development Office engage the services of a consulting firm to develop the sector strategies. The benefit of engaging an external consultant include:

• While the Economic Development Office sets the brief and is consulted throughout the consultant is able to offer an independent perspective

• The consultant is able to gather frank feedback from relevant stakeholders

• The process is transparent

• The consultant also undertakes community consultation.

The cost of the development of each industry sector strategy is covered by the Economic Development budget.

Business and Employment Development Committee – Monday 13 February 2017

Page 26

BE17.4 Business Training and Capacity Building Opportunities

HPERM Ref: D17/29542

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Economic Development

Purpose / Summary

To update the Business and Employment Development Committee about the variety of upcoming business training and capacity building opportunities that are co-ordinated and/or supported by the Economic Development Office

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on Business Training Opportunities co-ordinated and/or supported by the Economic Development Office be received for information

Options

1. The recommendation be accepted as written

2. An alternative recommendation be proposed

Background

The Economic Development Office of Shoalhaven City Council supports a number of business training and development programs for local businesses. The Economic Development Office does this through partnering with other government and non-government entities who provide business training. This partnership approach has been extremely successful and has resulted in the delivery of quality training by skilled and knowledgeable trainers as well as networking and capacity building opportunities.

In 2016, the Economic Development Office supported, either financially or in-kind, a number of groups including the Shoalhaven Business Chamber, the Shoalhaven Professional Business Association, the Southern Region and Canberra Business Enterprise Centre, The Business Sessions and the South Coast Beef Producers Association. The following outcomes were achieved.

Shoalhaven Business Chamber

Between January and June 2016 the Shoalhaven Business Chamber held:

• 3 Breakfast Bites (156 attendees),

• 4 Lunch and Learn events (75 attendees),

• 2 Women in Business Events (135 attendees) and

• 4 Business Master Class events (140 attendees).

Between July 2016 and December 2016 the Chamber held:

• 1 Breakfast Bites

• 2 Lunch and Learn events

• 3 Women in Business Events

Final numbers are yet to be received by Council and will be reported on in due course.

SPBA

In 2016 the SPBA held:

• 5 business networking breakfasts (235 attendees – 45 per event)

• The SPBA Mentor program (12 mentors and 12 mentorees)

SRCBEC

In 2016 the SRCBEC held:

• 3 workshops

SRCBEC do not provide Council with attendee numbers.

The Business Sessions

The Business Sessions held 11 training sessions in Nowra with approx. 150 attendees in total. The Business Sessions also held training sessions in Ulladulla that were supported by the Ulladulla Administration Office of Shoalhaven City Council.

South Coast Beef Producers Association

South Coast Beef Producer's Association (SCBPA) is a group of beef producers working towards a productive, sustainable and profitable beef industry in the South Coast and Southern Highlands of NSW through best practice that meets financial, environmental and social expectations. SCBPA held 5 network meetings at Council in 2016. In addition, the SCBPA Executive Officer attended the October 2016 Shoalhaven Career Advisors Network meeting to promote the ABC Mentoring – High School students program.

The South Coast Beef Producers Network will hold their next Healthy Soils Project workshop at Council on the 24th February 2017.

2017 Program Sponsored or Supported by the Economic Development Office of Shoalhaven City Council

Shoalhaven Business Chamber will hold a number of training, networking and capacity improvement sessions. Between January and July 2017, it is expected that the Chamber will hold 5 Breakfast Bites, a Women in Business event, and 4 Lunch and Learns events. This outline could change in response to demand and business needs. Shoalhaven City Council is a financial supporter of these events.

Shoalhaven Professional Business Association

The Economic Development Office of Shoalhaven City Council has entered into a MoU with the SPBA to deliver business capacity building and school to work transition programs. The Shoalhaven City Council is a financial supporter of these programs.

With support from the Economic Development Office the SPBA will deliver the following in 2017:

• 5 SPBA networking breakfasts

• SPBA Professional Mentoring Program (commenced in January 2017 and has 15 mentorees/15 Mentors)

• SPBA Professional Snapshot (65-80 students)

The SPBA will also deliver the SPBA Leadership Compass independently of Council.

Southern Region and Canberra Business Enterprise Centre (SRCBEC)

The SRCBEC is a regional organisation that delivers a comprehensive range of business and educational services to 18 LGA’s, including the Shoalhaven. The SRBEC contracts for the delivery of a number of Commonwealth and State Government services, specialises in the delivery of business advisory and consultancy services, delivers practical skill enhancement workshops for business, disseminates valuable business information and facilitates networking and commercial opportunities. The Economic Development Office of Shoalhaven City Council support this activity by providing the SRCBEC with training space at the Nowra Administration Building.

Shoalhaven City Council supports “The Business Sessions” through providing training room space. The Economic Development Office arranges space at Nowra, while the Ulladulla Council Administration team provides space at Ulladulla. The Business Sessions have supplied the Economic Development Office with a comprehensive overview of their upcoming training sessions. The outline is as follows:

Workshop	Nowra	Ulladulla
Creating an online presence	1st Feb	3rd Feb
Facebook 1	8th Mar	10th Mar
Facebook 2	5th Apr	6th Apr
Instagram 1	26th Apr	5th May
Instagram 2	28th Jun	23rd Jun
Instagram 1	7th Jun	9th Jun
How to create Awesome content	26th Jul	28th Jul
How to Use Google +	30th Aug	1stSep
Digital marketing including Ad Words	20th Sep	22nd Sep
Email Marketing	25th Oct	27th Oct
Facebook 1	22nd Nov	24th Nov
Facebook 2	6th Dec	8th Dec

The Small Business Club

The aim of the Small Business Club is to encourage smaller business and to exchange ideas and be aware of other businesses that operate within the Shoalhaven. The Small Business Club will coordinate bi-monthly events (5 per year). Each event will have a guest speaker covering a topic relating to assisting business growth. The Economic Development Office will co-sponsor this program. This program is based on a successful Small Business Club previously run by Illawarra iTec and sponsored by Shoalhaven City Council.

Community Engagement

This report to the Shoalhaven Business & Employment Development Committee is part of the community consultative process and its purpose is to inform. The Economic Development Office does circulate notice of these training sessions to its business networks.

Policy Implications

The “Shoalhaven – an enterprising alternative Economic Development Strategy” identify these activities as achieving Industry Growth and Capability outcomes.

Financial Implications

Shoalhaven City Council has provided funding to the Shoalhaven Business Chamber to run a number of business development sessions. This funding is allocated from the Economic Development Office budget.

Shoalhaven City Council has provided funding to the SPBA to run a number of business networking and capacity building sessions. This funding is allocated from the Economic Development Office budget.

The SRCBEC, The Business Sessions and the South Coast Beef Producers Network receive support through the use of Council training rooms. This has minimal cost to Council but is again met through the ED budget.

Shoalhaven City Council will provide funding for the Small Business Club in 2017 to run a number of business networking and educational sessions. This funding is allocated from the Economic Development Office budget.

Business and Employment Development Committee – Monday 13 February 2017

Page 30

BE17.5 NBN Rollout Progress

HPERM Ref: D17/30101

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Economic Development

Purpose / Summary

To bring the Committee up to date with the NBN rollout in the Shoalhaven.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That

1. The Business & Employment Development Committee accept the report on the NBN Rollout for information

2. The NBN’s Community Affairs Manager – NSW be invited to a future meeting of the BED Committee in mid 2017 to update the Committee and others on the NBN Rollout.

Options

1. The recommendation be accepted as written.

2. The Committee made other recommendations.

Background

Residents in parts of Shoalhaven City and its surround have entered a new era of fast broadband with the switch on of the NBN network in the area. More than 21,700 families and businesses are now able to connect to the NBN network.

Details of the fixed line rollout, as at mid December 2016 were:

Anticipated Technology	Area(s) covered or parts thereof	Premises	Forecast Ready for service
Fibre to the Premises/Node (FTTP/FTTN)	Worrigee, South Nowra, Nowra, Nowra Hill, West Nowra, North Nowra, Terara, Bomaderry, Cambewarra Village, Tapitallee and Bangalee	15, 700	Live
Fibre to the Node (FTTN)	Cudmirrah, Sussex Inlet, Berrara Callala Beach, Comberton, Myola, Callala Bay	6, 200	Due to be ready for service between February and April 2017
Fibre to the Node (FTTN)	Burrill Lake, Dolphin Point, Kings Point, Milton, Mollymook, Ulladulla and Bawley Point, Mollymook Beach and Narrawallee Huskisson, Vincentia Basin View, Sanctuary Point, St Georges Basin, Bream Beach, Erowal Bay, Hyams Beach, Old Erowal Bay, Sanctuary Point, Worrowing Heights, Shoalhaven Heads Currarong Bendalong, Cunjurong Point and Manyana	10, 900 14, 900	Construction to start before the end of January 2017 Construction to start progressively throughout 2017

Currently, the Shoalhaven region has 15 live fixed wireless sites that provide more than 6,000 homes and business on the outskirts of town with the ability to connect to the NBN network via fixed wireless technology.

The NBN Fixed Wireless technology uses advanced technology, commonly referred to as LTE or 4G, and provides wholesale speeds of up to 50Mbps download and up to 20Mbps upload. It’s engineered to deliver services to a fixed number of premises within each coverage area. This means that the bandwidth per household is designed to be more consistent than mobile wireless, even in peak times.

For a detailed view on what's happening can be viewed on our rollout map http://www.NBNco.com.au/learn-about-the-NBN/rollout-map.html

NBN’s Community Affairs Manager – NSW is available to brief Council and the Committee at a future meeting should the Committee desire.

Economic, Social & Environmental (ESD) Considerations

The availability of broadband services is essential to a community in the 21st century. The rollout of the NBN service is providing both business and the residential community with a reliable platform. Teething problems have been encountered but these are being solved by the NBN co-ordination team.

The issue now is that the community needs to take up the offer to connect to the NBN during the rollout or a legacy may be inherited by subsequent property owners to connect to the NBN when the rollout team has left their area and a contractor will need to be engaged to provide connection at a cost to the property owner.

Financial Implications

Council staff are involved in the approval process for deploying fibre and the installation of towers. A special process has been organised to expedite this.

Business and Employment Development Committee – Monday 13 February 2017

Page 33

BE17.7 Key Grant Funded Projects Update - Economic Development Office

HPERM Ref: D17/29690

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Economic Development

Purpose / Summary

To inform the Business and Employment Development Committee about the progress of the “Mind the Gap” and “Ulladulla Harbour Berthing Facility”

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report on the progress of the “Mind the Gap” and “Ulladulla Harbour Berthing Facility” projects be received for information.

Options

1. The recommendation be accepted as written

2. An alternative recommendation be proposed.

Background

The Economic Development Office of Shoalhaven City Council actively pursues external funding for project that will lead to the economic enhancement of the Shoalhaven.

Mind the GaP

In 2015, Shoalhaven City Council, in partnership with the University of Wollongong, applied for funding under Round 2 of the National Stronger Regions Fund to construct the Mind the Gap facility. The funding request was successful and Shoalhaven City Council was awarded $1,229,554 toward the $2,459,110 project. The University of Wollongong will contribute the other $1,229,554 toward the project.

MIND the GaP (Mental Illness Nowra District – Goals & Prevention) is a unique facility to be established at the University of Wollongong, Shoalhaven Campus. The Shoalhaven City Council and University’s $2.5M MIND the GaP facility will be a purpose designed building where education, translational research and service provision can intersect through collaborations with Lifeline, Coordinaire, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District and Noah’s Shoalhaven. The economic and social impacts of poor mental health are significant for regional communities. MIND the GaP will provide improved community-driven mental health interventions for the Shoalhaven and other regions around Australia.

This project will deliver a new free-standing building on the Shoalhaven Campus of the University of Wollongong at Mundamia. This will be the seventh building developed on the Shoalhaven Campus since it was established in 2000 to provide higher education services to the Shoalhaven community. The 750 sq. m. building will accommodate the MIND the GaP facility providing a purpose-designed, integrated centre incorporating spaces for education, translational research and support services focussed on mental health and wellbeing for the Shoalhaven, wider Illawarra-South Coast and rural and regional Australia. The building has been designed in accordance with the long established design principles and style for the Shoalhaven Campus continuing the crescent arc of buildings along a north-south axis (all linked by a covered pedestrian promenade). The new building will make use of existing the broad-scale car parking to the east and will be connected to trunk utility infrastructure previously provided to the site by Shoalhaven Council and already supplying the existing buildings and will support this and other future buildings.

Shoalhaven City Council entered into a funding agreement with the Australian Government via the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development in March 2016.

Shoalhaven City Council has submitted the first of five Progress Reports in August 2016. The project is progressing well with the University of Wollongong needing to address some outstanding Development Application conditions prior to construction.

It is expected that the project will be completed by mid 2018.

The $2.5M project will employ 12 FTE during construction and 11 FTE post construction.

Ulladulla Harbour Berthing Facility

Shoalhaven City Council applied to Round 3 of the National Stronger Regions Fund for funding to create additional berthing facilities within Ulladulla Harbour. This application was reassigned to the Community Development Grants programme for assessment. The project was successful and Council will receive $789,742 from the Australian Government via the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development to complete this project.

This project has been identified as an economic driver for many years. One of the key stumbling blocks to further development on this site was the need for rock shelf removal and dredging. Shoalhaven City Council has been working with NSW Crown Lands since 2009 to obtain funds under the NSW Dredging Program. In 2015 the NSW Minister for Lands and Water advised Council that funding had been allocated for this task. The NSW government is contributing $400,000 in rock shelf removal and dredging toward this project. This project would not be able to proceed without this contribution.

The harbour is an important feature of the town centre and its relationship to the commercial area gives Ulladulla its unique character and is its greatest visual asset. The project consists of the installation of a floating pontoon system creating approximately 20 berths for fishing charter boats as well as visiting vessels. Some of the berths will be used by vessels waiting to access the slipway.

The berths set aside for visiting craft are expected to be heavily utilised. Marine cruising is becoming increasingly more popular and having a safe refuge adjacent to a major town is seen as a positive tourist attraction. These vessels do currently utilise the Harbour but the berthing facilities are not suited to the smaller non-trailerable recreation/commercial vessels but rather the ocean going trawlers.

The commercial berths will be for craft seeking to be chartered for game fishing and general charter fishing. It is known that game fishing boats, that operate in Nth Queensland during the August-December game fishing season, move south during the cyclone season (January-May) each year and operate from NSW ports along the coast (e.g. Narooma, Bermagui..) Providing berthing facilities will open up this market in Ulladulla. To provide financial sustainability to the project, half of the berths will be available for leasing by “locals” for recreational craft. The demand for these is expected to be strong and widespread – Nowra/Wollongong, Canberra, Batemans Bay.

Land ownership at the land water interface can be complicated. At Ulladulla Harbour the primary land owners are Shoalhaven City Council and Crown Lands. The floating pontoon will be constructed on a land water interface controlled by Crown Lands. Crown Lands have advised that Council will be granted a licence or lease over the area within the Harbour and the adjoining land envelope (for ramps and other bracing structures). This will give Council tenure, a common practice between the Crown and local government, to construct, own and manage the facility.

This project has come to fruition through the close working relationship between Council and Crown Lands. This $1.59M project will create 18 FTE (12 direct) and should be complete by December 2017.

Community Engagement

The Mind the Gap facility has been through the Development Application process.

Community Consultation on the Ulladulla Harbour project has commenced with a public meeting scheduled for 4pm on the 15th February 2017.

Policy Implications

These projects fit within the Community Strategic Plan and the Shoalhaven Economic Development Strategy.

Financial Implications

Mind the Gap Project Costs

National Stronger Region Funding $1,229,556

University of Wollongong $1,229,556

Total project cost $2,459,110

Shoalhaven City Council will incur some administration costs. These will be minimal.

Increased berths at Ulladulla Harbour

Community Development Grant $789,742

NSW Crown Lands (NSW Dredging Program) $400,000

Shoalhaven City Council $400,000

Total project cost $1,589,742

Council’s contribution comes from within the Economic Development budget.

Business and Employment Development Committee – Monday 13 February 2017

Page 46

BE17.10 Shoalhaven Professional Business Association - Update on Current Activities

HPERM Ref: D17/28994

Submitted by: Steven Bayer

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That

1. That the report on Update of Current Activities of Shoalhaven Professional Business Association (SPBA) be received for information.

Details

History of the SPBA

In 2009 a small group of likeminded professionals met to discuss the idea of establishing a network to promote and encourage people with a professional qualification to consider the Shoalhaven as the best place to further their careers.

In the beginning it was a vague notion motivated by local businesses facing the challenge of finding, training and retaining professional staff. Today the SPBA is an incorporated entity beginning to fulfil some of its dreams. With the wholehearted support and encouragement of Shoalhaven City Council, and the Shoalhaven Campus of the University of Wollongong, SPBA has set out to build relationships with local professionals, educators and the wider community.

The "not for profit" association includes a wide variety of professionals. Our common ground is that we are passionate about the beautiful Shoalhaven and believe in the future of our businesses in this area.

We are constantly seeking interest from businesses employing professional staff and other interested people who share our aim to make the Shoalhaven the number one choice for a professional career. The SPBA believes in,

- More local jobs and careers

- More training and education

We organise social gatherings with guest speakers which enable young professionals to network and share ideas. A Young Professional Group is thriving giving support to future business leaders.

In 2016 the SPBA signed an MOU agreement to consolidate Council funding and confirm obligations of the SPBA and Council. To this end SPBA are grateful to Council for their support in allowing SPBA to generate Business and Employment opportunities for professionals in the Shoalhaven.

Objectives of the SPBA

The Objectives of the Shoalhaven Professional Business Association are to:

1. Promote the Shoalhaven as a regional force.

2. Promote the Shoalhaven as a place to work, live and raise a family.

3. Promote the development of the professional resources of New South Wales, in particular of the Shoalhaven Region.

4. Promote, encourage, maintain, support and assist the professions throughout New South Wales, particularly in the Shoalhaven Region.

5. Assist Shoalhaven businesses employ, train and retain professional staff, for example by exchange of resources and information.

6. Encourage young people, particularly school leavers, to aspire to seek meaningful professional employment in the Shoalhaven.

7. Advance the education of young people in the Shoalhaven, for example through the establishment of scholarships.

8. Advance the education and training of staff employed in Shoalhaven businesses by establishing programs to up-skill them to undertake higher professional employment.

9. Promote the Shoalhaven as the location of choice for professional staff.

10. Mentor young professionals in the Shoalhaven to help them achieve longer term and satisfying employment in the Shoalhaven

11. Lobby on behalf of Shoalhaven Regional professions

12. Create opportunities for members to share knowledge, expertise and resources and develop productive business relationships

13. Facilitate opportunities for members to enjoy social interaction for their mutual benefit and support.

14. Foster knowledge of the Shoalhaven Regional nationally and internationally.

15. Provide a full range of professional business orientated consulting services and provide facilities to members

16. Foster industry, trade and commerce and the development of new business and industry for the Shoalhaven Region

17. Promote and maintain co-operation, collaboration and close relations with the Shoalhaven Business Chamber

18. Affiliate and promote liaison and co-operation with other groups representing business interests.

19. Do all things necessary to achieve these objectives

Young Professional Mentor Scheme

In line with several objectives listed above, SPBA has embarked on a program to assist in training and retaining young professionals, and in response to requests from members.

The first program was run in 2014 and is open to young professionals (Mentorees) committed to continuous learning and professionals who are undertaking a new direction, role or industry. 2017 marks the fourth year of this extremely successful program.

Mentorees are matched with their own mentor; who are, or have been, business managers and/or owners who have had a minimum of 7 years management experience and who share an enthusiasm for continuous learning and sharing knowledge and experience.

Mentors submit applications that outline their reasons and objectives for undertaking the program and specific skills they are looking to improve or learn. Mentors similarly submit applications to be involved in the program and offer skills that they have developed in their professional or business careers.

All applications are assessed by a management committee, including reference checks. Mentorees and Mentors are matched to best recognise respective goals and expertise. No Mentorees are matched with Mentors from the same industry.

The 2017 program is underway, with 15 Mentorees and matched Mentors. Mentorees come from a variety of professions, including Architects, Lawyers, Chemists, Accountants, Graphic Designers, Journalists, Marketing consultants, Environmental Scientists and financial officers.

The program runs from January until the graduation dinner on 7 July 2017, and includes the following components;

- One-on-one mentoring for a minimum of seven hours

- Mentoree and Mentor briefing/debriefing sessions at the start and end of the program

- Four Knowledge Hubs where Participants choose topics for personal and professional development and these roundtable discussions are led by a facilitator with experience and knowledge for that topic in a peer learning environment.

- Debating workshop and the Great Debate on a local topic

The program is financially supported by Council’s Economic Development Office, together with provision of resources from the University of Wollongong Shoalhaven Campus and sponsorship of the program launch/graduation by Bendigo Bank.

Breakfast Events

The SPBA runs bi-monthly breakfasts, which are supported by Council, and provide the following;

- opportunity for members and guests to network

- a guest speaker to talk about their experience which will impact on professionals and professional businesses in the Shoalhaven

- a member to advise the meeting of their business in a small Cameo presentation

- our next breakfast is to be held on 9 February 2017, with the Mayor of Shoalhaven, Clr Amanda Findley as guest speaker

Professional Snapshot

The SPBA also conducts the Professional Snapshot, in conjunction with Council’s Economic Development Office. This program is aimed at advising Year 10 students of the professional vocations that exist in the Shoalhaven and that may be of interest as career choices in the future.

The program has been provided for nine years and this year is run on 1 April 2017. The Snapshot is supported by approximately 90 students from many of the local secondary schools.

Students will spend one day travelling around the Nowra CBD and spending 1.5hrs in the office of a professional business to gain some understanding of what is involved in that occupation, as well as being hosted by Council at lunch.

Streams of students will spend time in aligned professional businesses, where the students interests in future employment is strongest.