Bundaberg Regional Council has released a draft economic development strategy, which aims to guide Council’s actions to promote economic growth within the region over the next 10 years, for community feedback.
The draft Bundaberg Region Economic Development Strategy is a high level overarching policy that outlines ways to foster growth, develop the workforce, and attract investment and innovation in the region.
Mayor Blackburn said the strategy would strengthen the Bundaberg Region’s position as a liveable, vibrant and connected community with a thriving regional economy.
“Population growth is booming in our region and to manage that sustainably we need a clear, informed economic strategy to support this growth responsibly and help our community flourish,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“The draft strategy outlines a vision for the future of the Bundaberg Region that is considered and proactive.”
Mayor Helen Blackburn said the draft strategy was built around the core principles of collaboration, facilitation and connection.
“The strategy promotes a cooperative approach between Council, business, government agencies and the community,” she said.
“We want the strategy to focus on supporting growth and innovation in our region through advancing our key industries, such as agriculture, health and tourism, and fostering growth in small business.
“This includes empowering pathways that create educational and work opportunities for residents to pursue their careers locally, as well as attracting skilled workers to the region.”
Community consultation
Community consultation on the draft strategy is now open through the online survey on the project page, with in-person sessions to be held in Bundaberg, Childers and Gin Gin in August.
Mayor Blackburn said she encouraged all interested residents to share their feedback on the draft document.
“Residents, community organisations and groups are encouraged to read the draft strategy and complete the survey with their insights and ideas. All feedback is welcome.
“Additionally, we will be reaching out to the business community to ensure the current economic drivers of our region are well represented.
“If you run a business in the region and are unable to come along to an in-person session, please complete the survey or get in touch with our Economic Development team to share your feedback.”
The draft Bundaberg Region Economic Development Strategy and survey is available on the project page.
Council’s economic development strategy will act alongside and in cohesion with other key Council strategies, including the Community Development Strategy which was developed in consultation with the community and adopted in 2024.
Consultation Sessions
Gin Gin Community Consultation Session
Date: Tuesday 12 August 2025
Time: 10 – 11.30 am
Venue: Gin Gin RSL Memorial Hall, 37 Milden Street, Gin Gin
Childers Community Consultation Session
Date: Tuesday 12 August 2025
Time: 2 – 3.30 pm
Venue: Isis Cultural Centre, 49 Churchill Street, Childers
Bundaberg Community Consultation Session
Date: Thursday 14 August 2025
Time: 10 – 11.30 am
Venue: Bundaberg Multiplex, 1 Civic Avenue Bundaberg
Not enough inter structure for population growth
With the huge population increase of Bundaberg in the last 5 years it would be nice to see people opening new businesses. Maybe even reopen some older businesses like Le Chefs or Rosie Blu?