FROM THE CEO
Jacqueline Brinkman, Chief Executive Officer
As I write this introduction to the Economic Development Australia( EDA) Journal, the team and I are heading home after attending the final event in the 2025 National Economic Development Roadshow. It has been such a pleasure to meet with the 466 economic developers who attended events in Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. The theme of the Roadshow built upon the theme of last year’ s National Economic Development Conference, The Power of Place which is of deep interest to our members. The progressive ideas presented by our keynote speaker, Neil McInroy around wellbeing economy practices, doughnut economics, placebased capital, community-led regeneration and Community Wealth Building generated enthusiastic discussion and forwardthinking strategy development. The National Roadshow is the latest addition to EDA’ s diverse range of events, activities and resources which support our mission of building capacity, promoting excellence and providing leadership to the economic development sector.
This edition of the EDA Journal also contributes to that overarching purpose with some excellent articles by our expert authors.
Kai Liepins from the City of Greater Geelong presents a compelling argument around the efficacy of financial incentives in local economic development. Kai draws on case studies in Canada and provides a step-by-step guide to illustrate the proposition of using this approach locally. The article also describes the use of Community Improvement Districts internationally. A timely reference with a number of cities and regions across Australia currently adopting similar frameworks.
Tanya Dalton sets out the vision behind the creative THINK TASMAN campaign, which employs creative storytelling to raise the profile of this beautiful region.
Paul Cranch’ s article regarding Country Universities Centres( CUC) serving as an economic development amplifier shows that CUCs go beyond education delivery to be a catalyst for activating regional economies.
In his article, Piers Grove challenges Government and investors to support the impact start-up sector in the same way it backs the VC-backed start-up ecosystem. Piers argues that this is key to Australia’ s transition to a clean, low-waste society, with impact start-ups harnessing the talents of Australians who are tackling many of the‘ wicked’ challenges faced by communities across the country.
The team at Dantia, Lake Macquarie’ s economic development company, and the Institute for Regional Futures at the University of Newcastle present their research into business attraction in the Lake Macquarie region, which is undergoing a profound economic shift away from mining and manufacturing sectors.
Andy Waugh’ s article presents deep insights into how local government and the business community can collaborate to support economic and social recovery. The case study is a great example of how to build a strong, inclusive and vibrant centre for economic development and community wellbeing.
Jonathan Rochwerger provides a useful blueprint to support economic developers prepare an economic development strategy. While Jonathan acknowledges there is no singular process for strategy development, he provides insightful principles and factors to be considered by Local Government economic developers when adopting a strategic gaze.
We hope you enjoy this edition and look forward to seeing you at one of EDA’ s events in the near future.
Jacqueline Brinkman GAICD Chief Executive Officer Economic Development Australia
VOL 18 NO 1 2025 04 www. edaustralia. com. au