NATIONAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARDS FOR EXCELLENCE
2021 FINALISTS AND WINNERS SHOWCASE
EDA was delighted to announce the winners in the 2021 National Economic Development Awards for Excellence at the National Economic Development Conference ( NEDC21 ), hosted virtually by Mackay Regional Council on October 13-15 .
EDA received a record 114 submissions this year . Judges in all categories described how impressive and humbling it was to gain insight into the best practice , innovation and creativity being employed by the economic development sector across the country .
The last 12 months have continued to present significant challenges for Australian economic development professionals . EDA members have mobilised to insulate local businesses from the immediate impacts of COVID-19 , retain commercial activity and local jobs , while planning for an unpredictable future .
EDA is thrilled to be recognising the remarkable organisations and individuals demonstrating leadership and excellence throughout this challenging period .
Congratulations to all the finalists on their achievement in a large and highly competitive field .
CATEGORY 1 . ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC THINKING This award recognises strategies where economic development outcomes are the leading factors and basis influencing the approach adopted . This award is seeking outcomes such as employment / workforce / investment / industrial and commercial development .
Finalist - City of Newcastle The City of Newcastle ’ s new Economic Development Strategy provides vision and leadership for the coming decade .
Responding to the local economic impacts of COVID-19 , the City ’ s strategy illustrates a transformative approach to economic development and has been informed by the “ New Local ” theoretical framework , which advocates for a people-centred and place-led approach .
The framework recognises that the success of the local economy is built on the talent , skills and ingenuity that exists in the City of Newcastle community .
VOL 14 NO 3 2021 34 www . edaustralia . com . au