Community Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan 2011 ...

Community Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan 2011-2020 

Economy 

BYRON SHIRE COUNCIL 

Community Economic 

Development Strategy 

and Action Plan 

2011 - 2020 

Adopted 20 October 2011 

www.byron.nsw.gov.au/economic-development 

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Economy 

Adopted 20/10/ 2011 (Res 11-854) 

Related policies 

• Community Economic Development Policy 10/003 

Related documents (procedures/ protocols, statements) 

• Community Discussion Paper on the draft Community Strategic Plan 2021 (#1072715) 

• Tourism Management Plan 2008-2018 (#852249) 

• Cultural Plan 2008-13 (#790600) 

• Youth Strategy and Action Plan 2011-2015 (#1146184) 

• Community Research (online survey 2010 and December 2007) 

• Industrial Lands in Byron Shire (October 2007 #70625) 

• Draft Community Profile 2010 (#984928) 

• Social Plan 2004-2009 (#486263) 

• Management Plan 2011-2014 (#1108745) 

Documents prepared by Consultant for this plan 

• Community Economic Development in Byron Shire – Strategy and Action Plan: A Discussion Paper 

(#1066707) 

• Economic Outlook – Factors Affecting Byron Shire 2011 and Beyond (#1066671) 

• The Byron Shire Economy – Industry Overview (#1066689) 

• Community Feedback – Interpreting What the Community Wants (#1066695) 

• Selected Demographic and Other Data (#1066696) 

• Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers and the Regional Industry and Economic Plan 

(#1066699) 

Disclaimer 

While care and diligence have been exercised in the preparation of this document and related documents, Byron 

Shire Council does not warrant the accuracy of the information contained within and accepts no liability for any 

loss or damage that may be suffered as a result of reliance on this information whether or not there has been error, 

omission or negligence on the part of Byron Shire Council or its employees. Byron Shire Council reserves the right 

to adjust the priorities and actions outlined in this plan without notice. 


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Economy 

A message from the Mayor 

The Community Economic Development Strategy 2011 – 2020 is about planning 

for future economic viability and gainful employment. The ten year plan considers 

strategies and actions that aim to strengthen the Shire’s economic base through the 

creation of partnerships and diversification of industry sectors. 

Byron Shire is relatively small in size with currently 14,550 rateable properties and 

a population of fewer than 30,000 residents and we are not immune to global 

impacts. It’s through the support of industry diversification, forward land planning 

and the provision of infrastructure that will fortify the community to withstand the 

leaner times and thrive during the prosperous. 

Ultimately the actions Council will be able to take will be local and operational. As a 

result, seven key areas have been identified within the strategy and include: 

1. infrastructure 

2. timely decision-making 

3. diversity in employment sectors 

4. attracting and developing skills with a focus on youth 

5. supporting community economic development initiatives in the Shire’s 

towns and villages 

6. regional cooperation 

7. research capability. 

For Council the emerging opportunities to strengthen and grow its creative and 

cultural industries and advocate for increased technology infrastructure such as the 

new national broadband network, are essential success elements. 

The business community, ratepayers and residents are encouraged to join Council 

on its economic development journey. The Shire has undergone many transformations 

over the past one hundred years; from cedar cutting, dairy farming, whaling 

station and abattoirs, to an iconic international tourist destination. Throughout these 

changes, Byron Shire has fought hard to keep its charm, authenticity and ultimately 

its ‘appeal’. 

The Community Economic Development Strategy 2011 – 2020 provides a 

framework to ensure the community is prepared for the future challenges it faces. 

Yours in service of Byron Shire 

Mayor Jan Barham 


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Economy 

Table of Contents 

Page 

A message from the Mayor 3 

Table of Contents 4 

1. Introduction 5 

2. Process 6 

3. A Short History of the Shire’s Development 7 

4. Economic outlook for 2011 and Beyond 8 

5. The Local Economy 9 

6. Local influences on the Byron Shire economy 11 

7. Key Action Areas 12 

8. Action Plan 14 

9. Evaluation 14 

Appendix 1: Action Plan 15 

Also prepared by Michel Boyle Consulting for this plan 

• Community Economic Development in Byron Shire Strategy and Action Plan 

• Economic Outlook – Factors Affecting Byron Shire 2011 and Beyond 

• The Byron Shire Economy – Industry Overview 

• Community Feedback – Interpreting What the Community Wants 

• Selected Demographic and Other Data 

• RDA - Northern Rivers and the Regional Industry and Economic Plan 


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Economy 

1. Introduction 

Byron Shire is a thriving and vibrant community where residents and visitors can live, work and play in a sustainable 

environment. 

Byron Shire Council is committed to a next-generation sustainable economy that: 

1. encourages the use of locally-grown, manufactured or value added products; 

2. values all the human and natural resources of the Shire; 

3. transitions the Shire to become a resilient local economy in the Northern Rivers region; 

4. encourages economic activity and decision-making to be carried out in a socially and environmentally 

responsible and accountable manner; and 

5. pursues and achieves desired social, environmental and economic benefits. 

With a view to transition and diversity, the Council has identified nine industry sectors and activities that foster the 

prosperity of the Shire through sustainable job creation while in keeping with Council’s environmental and cultural 

ethos: 

1. Agriculture and food 

2. Building and construction 

3. Creative industries 

4. Eco-forestry 

5. Education 

6. Green industry 

7. Health and natural therapies 

8. IT and communications 

9. Tourism. 

Growing coffee in Byron Shire 

Council acknowledges that the private sector is best placed to make decisions concerning its own viability and that 

Council, as trustee of public funds, has limited scope to provide direct finance for economic development. 

Council will endeavour to facilitate increased commercial and economic activity through the: 

1. provision of timely decision making to give certainty of direction; 

2. provision of infrastructure subject to budget requirements; 

3. establishment and development of an ongoing research capability to assist all industry sectors, and 

4. facilitation of an effective lobbying and networking capability. 


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Economy 

2. Process 

This plan was developed in the following manner: 

1. Initiation Community consultation initiated in 2007 and renewed in 2010 in the recent 

preparation of the draft Community Strategic Plan. 

2. Situation Analysis Undertaken on behalf of Council the situation analysis was largely a desk 

review of a range of subjects: 

a. Economic Outlook – Factors Affecting Byron Shire 2011 and Beyond 

b. The Byron Shire Economy – Industry Overview 

c. Community Feedback – Interpreting What the Community Wants 

d. Selected Demographic and Other Data 

e. RDA - Northern Rivers and the Regional Industry and Economic Plan. 

3. Draft Plan Prepared The draft strategy was reviewed and discussed by Council on 14 April 2011. 

4. Public Exhibition The draft strategy was placed on public exhibition for community 

consideration on Thursday 26 May until until 22 June 2011 (current stage). 

5. Final Plan To be approved by Council. 

6. Implementation Implementation to be overseen by the General Manager. 


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Economy 

3. A Short History of the Shire’s Development 1 

Byron Shire today is a reflection of its history from the days before European settlement through a roller coaster 

succession of economic endeavours. Through it all, Byron has shown resilience and an incredible ability to change. 

Highlights of the local economic history are as follows: 

• The local Arakwal and Bundjalung people 

have been settled in the area since 

time immemorial and remain proud and 

valued custodians. 

• European settlers arrived in the late 

1840s. The construction of a jetty and a 

railway underpinned successive waves 

of economic activity around Byron Bay. 

Forestry cleared the way for eventual 

cane farming and dairy and livestock 

industries. 

• A variety of meatworks were built in 

Byron Bay with production delivered to 

market by sea and rail. 

• Sandmining started in the 1930s and 

continued intermittently through the 

1960s. 

• The region is susceptible to severe weather events. In 1954, a cyclone destroyed a large extent of both the jetty 

and the local fishing fleet. Whaling started at about this time, running through the early 1960s. 

• In the 1960s and 1970s, a new age descended upon Byron Bay. Whaling ended as abruptly as it began and the 

dairy industry was decimated by distant factors outside of its control. At the same time, independent 

travellers were attracted by the local environment and culture. Land use turned to horticulture and tourism 

activities began. 

• More recently, Byron Shire and the region has become a prime target for sea-changers and tree-changers. Again 

climate, environment and lifestyle are amongst the primary attractions to the area. 

• Tourism is now the principal economic driver with its consequent impact on the retail, food and accommodation 

sectors. However, the economy has a measure of diversity with agriculture, education, health and natural 

therapies, building and construction, the creative industries, eco-forestry, information technologies and 

communication and green industries all contributing to the prosperity of the Shire. 

www.byron.nsw.gov.au/economic-development 1. Many thanks to the online Byron Bay Directory History of Byron Bay 

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Economy 

4. Economic Outlook for 2011 and Beyond 

Macroeconomic Factors 

Ultimately, the actions that Council is able to take will 

be local and operational. 

However, our small economy is susceptible to global or 

national economic trends and other factors. We expect 

a slow return to growth in our major export markets – 

namely the United Kingdom, the United States and the 

Euro zone. The national economy will continue to grow, 

although recent severe weather events have reduced 

growth and created the prospect of a short-term spike 

in inflation. 

Dampened Prospects for Tourism Activity 

The tourism sector will tighten. 

The strength of the Australian dollar is dampening local 

tourism. Overseas visitors are still coming at the same 

rate but are spending less. Domestic overnight visitors 

are electing to travel overseas, perceiving 

better value. Petrol prices are expected to rise in 

coming years in response to both scarcity and increasing 

demand. 

emitting behaviour, we expect that tourism will be 

adversely affected. Our main export markets may also 

be affected if similar schemes are introduced in those 

jurisdictions. 

Other Overarching Issues 

The Queensland floods and cyclones cause Byron Shire to 

reflect on the possibility of increasingly frequent severe 

weather events. A number of issues arise not the least 

of which is the economy’s ability to withstand a direct hit 

and/or repeated hits in the vicinity. While the economy’s 

diversity is better than some, businesses are susceptible 

to a fall in tourism. 

Our ageing population will be an overarching issue for 

the foreseeable future. With high real estate values, the 

affordability of care facilities needs to be assessed. So too 

the Shire’s ability to attract care workers. 

Limited access to public transportation will continue to 

be a burden on the economy as residents and visitors will 

have to continue to rely on personal vehicles to get around. 

The severe weather events experienced in Queensland 

in 2011 will impact Byron Shire in the short-term. 

Queensland is the source of 50% of Byron Shire’s 

overnight tourism business and a high proportion of day 

visitors. The immediate impact of severe weather in 

January 2011 was an abrupt and premature end to the 

high tourist season. 

Depending on its structure, the introduction of a carbon 

tax may also dampen the local economy by reducing 

disposable income. Furthermore, since the purpose of 

the tax is to influence the consumption of high 

Dining in Byron Bay 


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Economy 

5. The Local Economy 

The size of the Shire’s economy was nearly $1.3 billion in 2006. 

As depicted in the table below, Retail Trade (25%), Property and Business Services (16%), Accommodation and Food 

(12%), Wholesale (8%) and Construction (9%) represent over two-thirds of the Shire’s economy. 

Manufacturing, 

105, 8% 

Wholesale 

116, 8% 

Construction, 

128, 9% 

Distribution of Revenue by Sector 2006 

Accommodation 

Cafes and 

Restaurants, 

164, 12% 

($millions) 

Agriculture 

Forestry and 

Fishing, 77, 6% 

Other, 213, 16% 

Retail Trade, 

353, 25% 

Property and 

Business 

Services, 214, 

16% 

Tourism 

The Retail Sector 

Tourism as an economic activity is not depicted in 

Australian Bureau of Statistics data as a sector in its 

own right. Rather it is an activity that impacts in some 

measure on the other employment sectors of the local 

economy. In the 12 months to September 2009, direct 

income from tourism was estimated to be $436 

million and it is the primary economic driver in the 

Shire. Applying a multiplier, the sector represents over 

40% of the Shire’s economy. 

Based on Tourism Research Australia forecasts, tourism 

is likely to remain flat in the coming decade. Should 

this eventuate, the retail, accommodation, food, and 

transportation sectors will be most affected. Property 

and business services, construction and wholesale will 

also be affected adversely as will all other sectors to a 

lesser extent. 

The retail sector accounts for about 25% of the Byron 

Shire economy. Recent flood events in Queensland cut 

short this year’s peak tourist season. Adjustment in the 

form of business closures and loss of employment is said 

to be underway. Smaller businesses that have fewer 

resources are probably at greater risk than chain stores 

which are able to rely on scale to manage costs, and on 

multiple locations to mitigate geographic risk. 

Non-tourist retail is likely to be somewhat sheltered from 

the difficult tourist market. However, a reduction in 

tourism will have an indirect effect on the community at 

large to the extent that locals either lose their jobs or are 

forced to work fewer hours. 


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Economy 

The Building and Construction Sector 

The Building and Construction sector accounts for 

about 9% of the Byron Shire economy. 

Council approvals have remained relatively stable in 

recent years. Council expects labour and material 

prices to be high in the medium term as the reconstruction 

effort in Queensland is in progress. As such, 

non-essential construction is likely to be restrained in 

coming years. However, a number of important projects 

are likely to proceed in the period of this plan to help 

offset the local downturn. 

Accommodation, Food and Wholesale Sectors 

These sectors account for about 20% of the economy 

and are strongly affected by tourism trends. In the 

wake of the Queensland floods, the most heavily 

dependent businesses will do it tough. Alterations in 

the marketing mix may help with cash flow but an 

extended downturn will bring some businesses to the 

wall – particularly those with high capital and operational 

cost structures. Franchises and chain stores 

may be best able to absorb the downturn. In addition, 

investment in new structures and improvements to 

existing structures may be delayed. 

Agriculture 

Primary agriculture accounts for about 6% of the Shire 

economy. Local producers are relatively unaffected (as 

at mid-January 2011) from this year’s weather events. 

As a result, local production is largely available and 

opportunistic producers may be able to capitalise on 

new sources of demand for their product. Additional 

demand may extend through the autumn and winter 

growing seasons depending on the speed of recovery 

in flooded agricultural regions. 

Food and beverage manufacturing account for about 

3% of the local economy. Certain brands are well 

established with national and international reputations. 

The extent to which the sector might be affected by the 

downturn in tourism will depend on market forces and 

positioning. 

Property and Business Services 

This sector accounts for about 16% of the Shire economy. 

Encompassing all property management, including 

commercial and accommodation, the sector will have 

experienced heightened costs as interest rates returned to 

historical levels. Stagnant real estate values will have 

unnerved some investors. The prospect of a tourism 

downturn, particularly in the domestic overnight segment, 

will put further pressure on the sector. 

Health 

The overarching issue facing the health sector in the Shire 

is the need to ensure the future availability of care 

facilities. Council is currently developing a positive ageing 

strategy which is to be completed in 2011. 

There is the prospect for the construction of a hospital in 

Byron Bay. Council is engaged with the Area Health 

Service in the preparation of a business case for the 

project. The economics of such a project are unproven 

to this point and given long lead times with such projects, 

the Shire will be fortunate if the facility is completed 

within the term of this plan. 

Education Sector 

Byron Shire is relatively well served by the range of 

education institutions. Growth in the sector cannot be 

foreseen if the forecast for population growth and 

population ageing are robust. Population growth is 

expected to be higher in Tweed and Ballina Shires in the 

period to 2027. As such, it would be normal to build new 

institutions where the growth is taking place. 


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Economy 

6. Local Influences in Byron Shire Economy 

People with an innovative flair 

• A growing, successful, educated, experienced, confident population with a measure of financial capital and able 

to develop and bring to market world-class products and services. 

• A strong sense of community and identity. 

• Valued young people. 

A rich natural environment 

• National Parks, Marine Park, world-class surf breaks, beaches and a beautiful, productive hinterland. 

Distinctive towns and villages 

• Each location has its own identity, vitality and economic objectives. 

Attitudes 

• Unanimity on the need to preserve and enhance the local environment and lifestyles. The environment is both the 

‘goose’ and the ‘golden egg’! 

• A desire that our youth have the choice to stay and thrive here. 

• An appreciation that tourism drives the economy, combined with the perception that tourism’s benefits are not 

shared by the community. 

Capital 

• Financial capital underpins the economy. Human capital drives it! The community needs to develop both from 

within or from external sources. 

• In a world of choice, capital will find the most receptive home. The high real estate prices represent a barrier that 

high quality investments must overcome. 

Infrastructure and services 

• Infrastructure needs to be of a quality to support the investment of private capital in the Shire. This includes 

roads, water and sewerage, fully-serviced industrial lands and, in the case of tourism, suitable and clean public 

amenity (town centres, parking, toilets etc). 

• Public services including health, education, transport and other council-delivered services. 

• Communication services, notably in the availability of high speed broadband. 

External factors 

• The policies of other governments including the Commonwealth, State and adjacent/regional shires. 

• Economic variables – notably the exchange rate and energy prices. 

• Climate change. 


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Economy 

7. Key Focus Areas 

The Community Economic Development Action Plan 2011-2020 (see Appendix 1) is structured around the following 

seven Key Focus Areas: 

1. Maintain infrastructure and resolve infrastructure gaps in a manner that responds to community 

needs and promotes meaningful and well-paying employment in the Shire 

Council is responsible for a range of infrastructure, most of which has a direct impact on economic 

development. 

Besides satisfying the community at large, improved infrastructure can have a direct impact on community 

economic development. For instance, better roads and better communications equals better access to 

markets. Infrastructure-related priorities identified include: 

• Roads and bridges 

• Parking and traffic management 

• Footpaths 

• Public toilets 

• Bikeways and bicycle facilities 

• Drainage/flood management 

• Quality of town centres and public spaces. 

The availability of recreation facilities and other community services are important if the Shire wants to 

encourage a new generation of workers and entrepreneurs to establish themselves in the Shire with their 

families. Community infrastructure such as community sports fields, the planned library and the potential 

hospital will assist Byron Bay. Other communities have similar needs. 

The issue of employment lands (as identified within Objective 3.11 of the Action Plan) will be examined with 

a long-term perspective. 

2. Ensure Council processes deliver to the community timely decisions to give certainty of direction 

Council has been engaged in process and product improvement for a number of years. A service charter 

commits Council to performance targets in response to the range of applications it receives from the 

community. Council will review performance against benchmarks on a specific, periodic basis. Processes 

will be reviewed and bottlenecks eliminated. 

In late 2007, Council undertook resident and business surveys to determine the importance the community 

attaches to Council services and its level of satisfaction with those services. The surveys established a 

benchmark against which Council’s performance can be measured. Council will renew this research 

periodically. 


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Economy 

3. Encourage diversity in the range of successful employment sectors while building on the strength of 

existing business activity in order to promote jobs 

Fifty-one percent of the Byron Shire population aged over 15 years was employed in 2006. The 2006 Census found 

that the retail (12.6%), accommodation and food (12.2%), health care and social assistance (11.6%), education and 

training (9.0%), and construction (9.3%) sectors were the principal drivers of employment in the Shire. 

The business sector in the Shire is composed largely of small businesses, most of which operate from home bases. In 

2007, 60% of all businesses in the Shire employed no staff (or were ‘owner-operated’). 

Council has identified nine sectors or activities that foster the prosperity of the Shire: 

• Agriculture and food 

• Building and construction 

• Creative industries 

• Eco-forestry 

• Education 

• Green industry 

• Health and natural therapies 

• IT and Communications 

• Tourism. 

Byron Region Community College 

While Council’s ability to affect the prospects in the priority sectors is limited, it is able to affect activity 

through effective lobbying and networking, more timely decision-making, adjusting land use regulation, and 

creating better access to data that will allow the community at large to make better informed decisions. 

4. Seek to develop and attract appropriate skills with a focus on youth 

Like many regional shires, Byron Shire is facing a rapid increase in the age of its population. Council is 

developing a Positive Ageing Strategy that aims to frame a local response to the issue. Attracting and 

retaining qualified care professionals is among the key issues being considered in the Positive Ageing 

Strategy. 

Council is also developing a Youth Strategy and Action Plan. Elements of the strategy focus on 

entrepreneurships and education. 

5. Support community economic development initiatives in towns and villages 

The principal towns in the Shire each have a distinctive personality, aspirations and local organisations. 

Council will aim to deliver and maintain infrastructure in a manner that is balanced and consistent with the 

priorities of each location. 


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Economy 

7. Create a research and analytical capability that develops, regularly updates, and distributes 

information about the Shire economy to the community 

Council has already resolved to establish a research and analytical function. The capability will aim to create 

a consistent, updated and broad database of information relevant to the community and its economic 

development. 

8. Action Plan 

An action plan setting out Council’s intention is attached in Appendix 1. 

9. Evaluation 

This plan will be the subject of regular adjustment and review. The action plan will be reviewed after 5 years of 

implementation. 

The markets in Byron Shire 


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Economy 

Appendix 1 

Community Economic 

Development Strategy 

Action Plan 

Byron Shire Council 


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Economy 

Community Economic Development Strategy Action Plan 2011-2020 

List of acronyms used in the Action Plan 

Council Divisions 

Partners 

CI Community Infrastructure 

ANR Arts Northern Rivers 

CL Council 

CC Chambers of Commerce 

CM Corporate Management 

NCAHS North Coast Area Health Service 

COMM Communications 

NOROC Northern Rivers Regional Organisation of Councils 

EP Environment and Planning 

NRT Northern Rivers Tourism 

ET Executive Team 

NSWI&I NSW Industry and Investment 

OS Organisational Support 

RDANR Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers 

SC Society and Culture 

SCU Southern Cross University 

WR Water and Recycling 

TAC Tourism Advisory Committee 

TBD To be determined 

VIC Visitor Information Centres 

Others 

COAG Council of Australian Governments 

Adopted by Council 20/10/11 Res 11-854 


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Economy 

Community Economic Development Action Plan 2011-2020 

Action Plan - Key Focus Area 1 

Maintain infrastructure and resolve infrastructure gaps in a manner that responds to community needs 

and promotes meaningful and well-paying jobs in the Shire 

Objectives Strategic Actions Division Partners Priority 

1.1 Improved Infrastructure in the 

Shire 

i. Deliver infrastructure program in accordance with adopted Delivery Plans and 

annual Operational Plans 

ii. Prepare 10 year infrastructure plan (General Fund) 

iii. Improve service levels as outlined in Asset Management Plan (General Fund) 

iv. Review Asset Management Plan requirements (General Fund) 

v. Lobby at regional, state and national level for infrastructure funding, including 

for tourism infrastructure as per the 2008-18 Byron Shire Tourism Management 

Plan 

ET 

CI 

CI 

CI 

ET / CL Funding 

agents 

Critical 

Critical 

Critical 

Critical 

Critical 

1.2 Employment lands adequate 

to serve community’s future 

needs 

i. Develop a long-term employment lands strategy EP NSWI&I High 

1.3 Safeguard council, 

community and business 

assets in the face of extreme 

weather events and pending 

climate change impacts 

i. Review and improve readiness plans on a periodic basis, including lessons 

learned by authorities in Queensland in 2011 

ii. Implement risk management plans when adopted by Council, including Coastal 

Zone Management Plan, Floodplain Risk Management Plan and Local Disaster 

Plan 

CI 

CI Local State 

and 

Regional 

Authorities 

Critical 

Critical 

1.4 Regional infrastructure 

solutions 

i. Finalise Transport Strategy CI Critical 



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Economy 



Ensure Council processes deliver to the community timely decisions to give certainty of direction 


2.1 Response time within service 

charter targets 

i. Achieve service charter benchmarks 

ii. Clear process bottlenecks 

iii. Continuously improve processes 

ET 

ET 

ET 

Critical 

High 

Moderate 

2.2 Clarity of direction i. Review and improve standard communications to ensure messages are clear 

and precise 

ET Moderate 

2.3 Measurement to national 

standards 

i. Adjust process and outcome measures to Council of Australian Governments 

(COAG) agreed standards for data collection and reporting 

ET Moderate 



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Economy 



Encourage diversity in the range of successful employment sectors while building on the strength of existing business 


GENERAL 

3.1 A vibrant small business 

sector 

i. Create general awareness, especially within the Council itself, that virtually all 

Shire businesses are small and need best available service 

CL CC Critical 

3.2 Water and sewerage 

landholdings used to 

complement community 

economic development 

i. Ensure CED criteria are considered in the future use of Water and Sewerage 

fund land holdings 

ET / CL High 

TOURISM 

3.3 Pursue the vision, values 

and principles of the 

Tourism Management Plan 

i. Implement priorities emerging from the plan including Byron Shire brand, 

tourism levy, etc 

SC TAC / NRT 

CC 

VIC 

Businesses 

Community 

High 

AGRICULTURE 

3.4 Leverage Council’s 

resources by participating 

in regional efforts to 

promote the sector 

i. Evaluate the success of Foodlinks investment and renew involvement as 

appropriate 

ii. Evaluate the value gained from investment in the Farm and Nature Tourism 

program 

EP / SC 

EP / SC 

RDANR 

SCU 

High 

Moderate 

3.5 Increased stock of land 

available for agriculture 

i. Review LEP to ensure zoning promotes the growth of agriculture 

ii. Consider policies that aim to grow the amount of land available for agriculture 

EP 

EP 

High 

High 



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Economy 


3.6 Enabling policies and 

practices 

i. Consider food trail and coffee trail concepts under discussion in context of the 

Tourism Management Plan 

ii. Continue promotion of farmers’ markets 

SC 

CL 

TAC Moderate 

Ongoing 

3.7 Additional Council action i. Subject to resource availability, review Sustainable Agriculture Policy and 

select activities to be renewed as appropriate 

EP / SC High 

CREATIVE INDUSTRIES 

3.8 Pursue the vision, values 

and principles in the 

Cultural Plan 

i. Reconfirm priorities within the plan and appropriately resource individual tasks 

ii. Consider actions recommended by Positive Solutions in the Arts and Creative 

Industries Strategy for Northern Rivers Report for Byron Shire (March 2009) 

SC 

SC 

Various High 

High 





i. Evaluate benefits of Arts Northern Rivers funding and continue as appropriate 

ii. Consider funding for longer than one year term if other partners are also 

prepared to commit 

SC 

SC 

ANR 

et al 

Other 

Councils 

Ongoing 

High 


resources by partnering 

with locally based 

organisations 

i. Develop strategy that aims to create employment, including traineeships and 

placements in the creative industries for young people 

ii. Adopt and implement Youth Strategy and Action Plan 

SC 

CL / SC 

ANR 

et al 

Moderate 

High 

3.11 Optimum contribution of 

Arts and Industry estate 

i. Develop a long term employment lands strategy ET / CL NSWI&I High 

3.12 A new library in Byron Bay i. Finalise plans/funding and implement CM High 



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Economy 


BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION 

3.13 Improved infrastructure in 

the Shire 

i. Actions as per objective 1.1 in Key Focus Area 1 CI High 

3.14 Response time within 

service charter targets 

i. Actions as per objective 2.1 in Key Focus Area 2 EP Moderate 

to High 

3.15 Advance and complete key 

projects subject to budget 

constraints 

i. Library in Byron Bay 

ii. Hospital in Byron Bay 

iii. Byron Regional Sports and Cultural Complex in Byron Bay 

iv. Byron Bay Town Centre upgrade 

v. Tweed Street Upgrade, Brunswick Heads 

vi. Parking in Bangalow, Brunswick Heads and Mullumbimby 

CM 

EP 

CI 

CI 

CI 

CI 

NCAHS 

CC 

CC 

Various 

High 

Moderate 

High 

Moderate 

Moderate 

Moderate 

ECO FORESTRY 

3.16 Measures of performance i. Define eco-forestry and establish the level of current operations in the Shire 

ii. Subject to resource availability, develop data set for measurement of progress 

EP 

SC / EP Industry 

Moderate 

High 

3.17 More reforested land i. Develop policies that encourage reforestation of camphor infested land with 

rainforest and cabinet timbers 

EP Industry High 

3.18 More agricultural land i. Develop policies that encourage conversion of camphor infested land to 

agriculture 


INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 





i. Work through NOROC and RDANR ET RDANR 

NOROC 

Critical 



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Economy 


3.20 Increased Shire access to 

high quality Information and 

Communications 

Technologies (ICT) 

i. Develop an ICT strategy 

ii. Review Tweed Shire strategy and consider applicability to Byron Shire 

iii. Consider working with Tweed Shire and other regional shires to increase 

likelihood of success 

iv. Lobby for increased access to National Broadband Network upgrade for the 

Shire and region 

ET 

ET 

ET 

CL / ET 

Other 

Councils 

High 

High 

Critical 

EDUCATION 

3.21 A culture of continuous 

improvement in education 

in the Shire 

i. Subject to budget, deepen Council’s own staff training program 

ii. Adopt and implement the provisions of the Youth Strategy and Action Plan, 

relating to support for, and promotion of, local training and education bodies 

iii. Continue funding for Arts Northern Rivers given its training program 

iv. Consider co-sponsoring the training programs of Screenworks and the Writers 

Centre 

ET 

SC 

CL 

SC 

ANR 

TBD 

Moderate 

High 

High 

Moderate 

3.22 Byron Shire a centre of 

excellence 

i. Develop a strategy that positions Byron Shire as a centre of excellence for 

training/education in selected priority sectors 

SC Industry Moderate 

3.23 A new library in Byron Bay i. Finalise plans/funding and implement CM Funding 

agents 

High 

HEALTH AND NATURAL 

THERAPIES 

3.24 Increased stock of care 

facilities in the Shire 

i. Consider recommendations of Positive Ageing Strategy being developed EP / SC RDANR High 

3.25 More care workers in the 

Shire 

i. Consider recommendations of Positive Ageing Strategy being developed 

ii. Support secondary school opportunities for awareness and training in 

community service sector, for example through Youth Futures program with 

schools and employers 

EP / SC 

SC 

RDANR High 

High 



22


Economy 


3.26 Increased stock of 

recreation facilities in the 

Shire 

i. Complete Byron Regional Sports and Cultural Complex in Byron Bay 

ii. Develop sports fields for Ocean Shores 

CI 

CI 

High 

High 

3.27 A new hospital in Byron Bay i. Continue to work with Area Health Service on new facility EP NCAHS Moderate 

3.28 More opportunities for 

natural therapies 

i. Ensure TAC considers actions to promote health tourism opportunities within 

the Tourism Management Plan 

SC TAC Moderate 

GREEN INDUSTRIES 

3.29 Reliable measurement of 

‘green industry’ activity 

i. Define ‘green industry’ 

ii. Subject to resource availability, develop an objective set of ‘green industry’ 

measures 

iii. Identify potential employment land sites for ‘green industry’ 

EP / SC 

EP / SC 

EP / SC 

RDANR 

Industry 

High 

High 

Moderate 

3.30 Encourage ‘green industry’ 

business 

i. Review Council regulation on an industry by industry basis and adjust as 

appropriate 




23


Economy 



Seek to develop and attract appropriate skills with a focus on youth 


4.1 Sufficient care workers i. Consider recommendations of Positive Ageing Strategy being developed 

ii. Work with schools and local employment stakeholders to encourage young 

persons to consider health care disciplines as a career 

SC 

SC 

RDANR 

Education 

sector 

High 

High 

4.2 Infrastructure that appeals to 

families 

i. Review future urban release areas, with a view to increasing the availability 

of building sites and housing 

ii. Complete Byron Regional Sport and Cultural Complex in Byron Bay 

iii. Develop sportsfields for Ocean Shores, subject to budget 

EP 

CI 

CI Community 

funding agents 

High 

High 

High 

4.3 Youth engaged and staying in 

the region 

i. Adopt and implement the provisions of the Youth Strategy and Action Plan 

ii. Implement employment and training initiatives from the Youth Strategy and 

Action Plan, eg. Careerlink – employment creation linked to priority sectors 

iii. Establish a creative industries hub including traineeship/mentorship 

opportunities 

iv. Work with industry associations and other stakeholders in the priority 

sectors to identify opportunities for youth traineeship/mentorship 

CL / SC 

SC 

SC / EP 

SC 

Job network 

Industry 

CCs 

Job network 

High 

High 

High 

High 

4.4 A culture of continuous 

improvement in education in 

the Shire 

i. Deepen Council’s own staff training program, subject to budget availability 

ii. Continue funding for Arts Northern Rivers given its training program 

iii. Consider co-sponsoring the training programs of Screenworks (SW) and the 

Writers Centre (WC) 

iv. Sponsor and support the RDANR Innovation Festival 

OS 

CL 

CL 

CL 

ANR 

SW / WC 

RDANR 

Moderate 

High 

Moderate 

High 



24


Economy 



Support community economic development initiatives in towns and villages 


5.1 Successful initiatives 

throughout the Shire 

i. Maintain regular contact with community and business organisations 

ii. Co-sponsor events if appropriate 

SC / EP 

CL 

High 

High 

5.2 Improved infrastructure in the 

Shire 

i. Actions as per objective 1 in Key Focus Area 1 

ii. Increase maintenance activities in adopted delivery plans and annual operational 

plans, subject to budget availability 

CI 

CI 

Critical 

High 



25


Economy 



Promote regional co-operation as a means to both resolving overarching issues and reducing the costs of specific, shared activities 


6.1 Effective communication with 

regional organisations, 

including lobbying and 

advocacy 

i. Develop key messages for engagement with regional organisations on agreed 

priority issues/sectors/roles 

CL / ET High 

6.2 Effective relationship with 

RDANR 

i. Develop a clear relationship with RDANR 

CL / ET 

RDANR 

Other 

Councils 

High 

ii. Commit to projects on a case-by-case basis where synergies with Shire are 

strong 

CL / ET 

TBD 

High 

6.3 Effective relationships with 

state government 

i. Develop a clear relationship with local state government representatives ET State 

agencies 

High 

6.4 Effective relationships with 

other Shire Councils 

i. Search for projects/activities with shared interests and look to share and reduce 

expenses 

ET Other 

Councils 

High 

6.5 Integrated regional 

transportation 

i. Continue to advocate for public transportation in the region CL / ET RDANR 

NOROC 

Other 

Councils 

High 



26


Economy 



Create a research and analytical capability that develops, regularly updates, and distributes information 

about the Shire economy to the community 


7.1 KPIs for Community Economic 

Development (CED) 

i. Agree objective measures against which CED performance will be measured SC Critical 

7.2 Reliable measure of ‘green 

industry’ activity 

i. Develop an objective set of measures EP / SC RDANR High 

7.3 Reliable measure of the 

financial value of creative 

industries for the Shire 

i. Create objective measurement method SC RDANR 

ANR 

High 

7.4 Reliable measure of ecoforestry 

activity 

i. Develop an objective set of measures EP / SC Industry High 

7.5 Reliable research about 

home-based and small 

businesses 

i. Develop an objective set of measures SC High 

7.6 A reliable research and 

analysis capability delivering 

relevant and timely 

information to the community 

i. Identify data to be sourced, analysed, maintained and communicated 

ii. Develop consistent standards for the presentation of data by third parties 

iii. Develop consistent standards for the look and feel of data being released to 

the community 

SC 

ET / COMM 

ET / COMM 

Consultants 

Consultants 

High 

Moderate 

High 

7.7 Benchmark of Council 

performance 

i. Conduct research using the same methodology as that used for the 2007 

Community Survey by Micromex Research 

SC 2013 



27


Economy 

Byron Shire Council 

Station Street Mullumbimby 

Mullumbimby NSW 2482 

Postal: PO Box 219 

Mullumbimby NSW 2482 

Ph: 02 6626 7000 

Fax: 02 6684 3018 

Email: 

Web: 

council@byron.nsw.gov.au 

www.byron.nsw.gov.au 


28

Community Economic Development Strategy and Action Plan 2011 ...

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