Council has adopted the investment attraction progress report and recognised how important it is that the economic development department continues its excellent work in attracting new investment and business to the shire.

Acting Director Economic and Community, Greg Little, advised council that supporting existing business and attracting new business was vital to the future growth of the shire.

"The continuing sustainability of our economy is predicated on the support and growth of our existing businesses, a healthy, engaged and employed community, and on new investment into the municipality," Mr Little said.

"Increasing investment can occur through expansion of local business, the attraction of new industry and businesses to our shire and investment from government and international investors.

"Council continues to seek out investment possibilities, provide the framework to encourage investment, and actively respond to opportunities and enquiries as they present."

Mr Little said the Economic and Community Development Directorate undertakes a range of activities to maintain and grow the economic vitality of the Northern Grampians Shire.

"A strong economy and actively pursued investment attraction has the potential to draw business and investment into our shire," he said.

"Many businesses no longer need to be located close to the markets.

“The availability of land and infrastructure, a skilled workforce, access to local material supply, transport connections, and essential utilities can be seen as broader benefits for business choosing to invest in our shire.

"Attracting potential businesses to the Northern Grampians will in turn provide for better job opportunities, allows local residents to attain greater earnings to invest into businesses and shops in the area, which leads to industry diversification and more job availability.

"This is increasingly important in order to maintain our residents sense of place and well-being in the communities that we serve."

Cr Kevin Erwin said the shire had a very strategic program in place to try and attract new business.

"There are a number of things in place, one of those being our particle physics laboratory which is a world famous project now and will be e genuine game change for Stawell," he said.

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