The recovery plan and actions that followed required a broad collaboration that included Federal , State and Local government inputs as well as huge efforts from local business and tourism association representatives , business people , volunteer agencies and local communities .
By hiring creatives such as designers , music producers and lighting specialists to work in the city ’ s laneways , the program improved safety , encouraged social cohesion , supported economic recovery and stunningly revealed Melbourne ’ s postpandemic spirit .
FINALIST : City of Melbourne Flash Forward As part of Melbourne ’ s post-pandemic recovery , it has been vital to encourage the city ’ s social reconnection . The City of Melbourne understands how the creative industries can play a key role in our social activation and economic recovery . The Flash-Forward Creative Laneways Program enhanced the social qualities and economic possibilities of 40 of Melbourne ’ s world-renowned CBD laneways .
The Program invested over $ 8m into the local economy , garnered national and international media , resulted in 40 album commissions , hired 168 creatives , as well as many more benefits .
CATEGORY 7 . ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE - EQUITY , DIVERSITY & INCLUSION EDA invited projects where the community ’ s cultural , religious , linguistic and ethnic diversity underpin the economic development initiative . Examples which centred around gender diversity and or supporting greater economic participation for young people were also encouraged .
The Kaleidoscope Initiative supports newcomers to become job-ready . The project engages employers from a range of sectors , building their capacity . It develops commercial and community partnerships , creating solutions , sharing stories , inspiring positive change , and harnessing the power of economic networks .
The Kaleidoscope Initiative has helped bridge over $ 11M in average gross annual income back into the Australian economy by linking skilled migrants to well suited employment opportunities .
WINNER : City of Stirling , City of Canning & City of Swan - Kaleidoscope Initiative The Kaleidoscope Initiative , supported by the City of Canning & Swan and incubated by the City of Stirling was inspired by the successful Toronto model for migrant employment . The three Councils collaborating on this program understand that securing skilled migration and better utilising the existing availability of skilled migrants in Australia is key to addressing skills and labour shortages and improving the economic outlook for communities .
FINALIST : City of Banyule Inclusive Employment Program The Inclusive Employment Program was created to address localised unemployment in Banyule . The program offers six-months paid employment at Council to participants from vulnerable communities who are experiencing significant barriers to employment .
The Program offers a wrap-around service which involves workshops , individual coaching , supervisor support and training and helps participants strengthen their support network . It addresses inclusion
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