Wollongong councillors voted to put a new draft economic strategy out for public exhibition. Photo: Wollongong City Council.
An “audacious” plan to transform Wollongong’s economy is out for review.
Closer ties to southwest Sydney and a target of 20,500 additional jobs are key parts of the plan – but what industries they should come from is the subject of debate.
Wollongong City Council’s draft Economic Development Strategy 2025-2035 is now on public exhibition.
It comes at a time when Wollongong’s business community is struggling but hopeful.
Councillor Richard Martin told the council a business survey found 57 per cent of local businesses said they were worse off than they were a year ago, however 59 per cent were confident they would be better off next year.
Councillor Ann Martin said over the past 30 years Wollongong had transformed from a “one-horse town,” and the new strategy was the next step forward for the city.
“This economic strategy is audacious in its targets, but with a little bit of luck and projects such as the BlueScope redevelopment we might exceed our employment target,” she said.
Cr Martin has history on her side – the previous 2019 strategy aimed for an additional 10,500 jobs, a target achieved four years ahead of schedule.
The new strategy outlines five key priority areas for Wollongong, including a city that supports new growth and investment, is business friendly, vibrant and connected, fosters innovation and is environmentally sustainable.
It positions Wollongong as a competitive destination for emerging industries including clean energy, advanced manufacturing, technology, creative industries and professional services.
Councillor Jess Whittaker said she felt the strategy had some holes, however.
“There’s an absence of any reference to the local food industry, agriculture or artisan products,” she said.
“We aren’t an agricultural area, and developing a local food industry should be seen as an opportunity for us.
“I did see defence highlighted as an opportunity, and I don’t think local council should roll out the welcome mat for the war industry.
“Photos in the strategy are of people out eating, drinking and having fun; there’s not one picture of someone holding a gun or flying a drone.”
Councillor Dan Hayes said he disagreed with Cr Whittaker’s perspective on a defence presence in Wollongong, and that he would welcome the additional spending it would bring to the community.
Councillor Kit Docker said rising housing costs must be considered as part of the overall economic strategy.
“It’s not just a social challenge,” he said.
“High housing costs cut disposable income that could be spent at local businesses, and affect whether businesses can attract and retain talent.
“If we don’t address housing affordability in Wollongong it will be a drag on our local economy and local businesses will find it harder to find workers.”
The strategy will be on public exhibition until Thursday 6 November.
The council is encouraging residents, businesses and industry groups to take a look at the draft strategy and share their feedback on the Our Wollongong website.
