Regional Development Australia Hunter has opened industry consultation on a two-year program examining how economic, technological and demographic changes could affect the Hunter and where the region could develop new economic opportunities.
The work is centred on development of the Hunter Economic Development & Global Competitiveness Strategy and will include economic analysis, research, benchmarking and engagement with businesses and other regional stakeholders.
Businesses, industry leaders, government representatives, education providers, researchers and community stakeholders are being invited to contribute their experience and views through an online survey.
The consultation provides an opportunity for organisations working across the Hunter’s changing energy and industrial economy to contribute to a broader assessment of the region’s future industries, capabilities and investment opportunities.
Take part in RDA Hunter’s industry consultation
Looking at the Hunter’s changing economy
The initiative is not specifically focused on new energy, with RDA Hunter examining the Hunter economy as a whole.
However, the work comes as the region experiences changes across its established energy and industrial sectors and develops new industries, technologies and workforce capabilities.
For businesses and organisations involved in new energy, manufacturing, research, commercialisation and associated supply chains, the consultation provides a way to contribute those experiences to the wider economic work.
RDA Hunter said the initiative would examine how leading regions elsewhere were responding to economic and technological change and consider lessons that could be applied in the Hunter.
RDA Hunter Chair Ian Pedersen said competition for investment, workers and emerging industries made it important to understand the forces affecting the region’s future.
“The Hunter has a strong economic foundation, world-class industries and a proven ability to adapt and evolve. However, as global competition for investment, talent and emerging industries intensifies, it is important that we understand the forces shaping our future and identify where the region can build on its competitive strengths.
“This work is about ensuring the Hunter remains well-positioned to capitalise on emerging opportunities, attract investment and create sustainable prosperity for future generations.”
Local experience to inform the work
RDA Hunter said the strategy would combine data and economic research with input from people and organisations operating across the region.
Chief Executive Officer Kate O’Mara said broad engagement would be important in developing the work.
“This strategy will draw on data, evidence and global best practice, but will also be informed by the lived experience and expertise of people across our region. We encourage stakeholders from all sectors to participate in the consultation process and help shape the Hunter’s future competitiveness.”
The resulting strategy is intended to inform investment-ready projects and provide an evidence base for investment attraction, advocacy and regional decision-making.
Advisor appointed for two-year program
RDA Hunter has also appointed TW Partners as Strategic Advisor to the Hunter Global Competitiveness Initiative.
The firm is led by Todd Williams, a former chief executive of RDA Hunter, and will work with the organisation on the research, benchmarking, industry engagement and economic analysis program.
The work will run over two years and examine the economic, technological and demographic shifts affecting other regions as RDA Hunter considers how similar trends could influence the Hunter.
