Economic Development & Tourism Strategy

Snapshot

Purpose of the strategy

The Economic Development and Tourism Strategy will set a clear, long‑term direction to support sustainable economic growth, attract investment, and strengthen the Shire’s visitor economy.

The strategy is being developed to ensure Council’s economic and tourism priorities reflect current conditions, opportunities and community expectations, and to provide a clear framework for future decision‑making and investment.

Current Status

Phase 2 is wrapping up – targeted stakeholder engagement took place over the first half of May, with the project consultant holding on‑ground consultations in Donnybrook and Balingup. Insights from this engagement are informing the final strategic directions.

The project will shortly move into Phase 3, which is the preparation of the final Strategy for Council consideration.

Project Timeline

The project is being delivered in three key phases:

Phase 1 – Preparation & baseline work (complete)

  • Review of existing data, plans and local context
  • Confirmation of scope and priorities with Council

Phase 2 – Strategy development (wrapping up)

  • Development of strategic directions
  • Engagement with local businesses, community groups and key stakeholders
    • Completed early in May 2026, with refinement of strategy approach informed by stakeholder input

Phase 3 – Finalisation & adoption (starting soon)

  • Preparation of the final Strategy, informed by the baseline analysis undertaken in Phase 1 and the outcomes of stakeholder and community engagement in Phase 2
  • Presentation of the final Strategy to Council for consideration and adoption
  • Following adoption, implementation and integration of the Strategy across economic development and tourism activities, including projects, policies and future planning

Community Involvement - Stakeholder Engagement Summary

Community and stakeholder engagement will occur during the strategy development phase. Identified local businesses, community groups and stakeholders will be contacted directly by Lucid Economics to participate in targeted workshops and discussions.

Targeted stakeholder engagement was undertaken as part of Phase 2 to inform the development of the Strategy. Engagement was conducted through on‑ground activities across Donnybrook and Balingup, led by the consultant. Engagement activities focused on key stakeholders rather than broad community participation, and included:

  • Direct one‑on‑one meetings with stakeholders
  • Facilitated workshops held in Donnybrook and Balingup
  • Discussions with local businesses, community groups and other identified stakeholders

Insights gathered through this engagement have directly informed the strategic directions proposed and will be reflected in the final Strategy prepared in Phase 3.

Role of Lucid Economics

Lucid Economics has been appointed as the project consultant and is responsible for technical analysis, stakeholder engagement and development of the draft and final strategy.

Updated 12 May 2026