In order to develop local economic strategies, Fairfield City Council engaged .id to explore local economic drivers and competitive advantages influencing growth.

Our method

We developed a slide-deck report that delivered at-a-glance, economic analysis about the LGA’s key economic indicators including:

• Economic growth
• Economic drivers (population, participation, productivity)
• Job growth and labour force performance
• Industry and business activity
• Socio-economic changes

This information was then used by the economics team to identify the main opportunities and challenges facing the local economy. Some of the opportunities and challenges included:

• High unemployment rate and has remained elevated despite recent economic growth
• Skill profile is lower, with barriers like low English language proficiency impacting labour force outcomes
• Strong growth recently in key industry sectors – Manufacturing; Wholesale Trade; and Transport, Postal and Warehousing.
• Its multicultural community provides opportunities for growth (e.g. niche local markets, exports)

Results

This information will help inform Council economic planning, allowing them to make confident decisions about what strategies are required to influence growth.