The Investment and Economic Development Strategy is the lead strategy in guiding Council’s economic and investment growth and sustainability. 

Adopted by Council in May 2024, the Strategy provides an opportunity for Council to guide Whitehorse’s economy through a holistic approach that encompasses initiatives and projects aligned with the five key themes while improving the quality of life for those living, working, studying, and visiting the City of Whitehorse.

The five key themes of the Investment and Economic Development Strategy 2024 - 2028 (I&EDS) are:

• Supporting a Productive & Innovative Business Community
  Providing support for the business community to encourage growth, productivity, and development.
   
• Supporting Activity Centres & Employment Precincts
  Supporting the employment precincts and activity centres that drive local consumption, support business activity, generate local job creation and provide services and amenity for residents.
   
• Visitor Economy Growth
  Driving visitor growth and enhancing the visitor experience, with a particular focus on international students and the visiting friends and relatives of migrant communities.
   
• Accessing a Skilled & ‘Job-Ready’ Labour Force
  Providing opportunities for residents of all backgrounds – through skills development and training – to join the local workforce.
   
• Enhancing Liveability Outcomes
  Maintaining and providing amenity, services, infrastructure, as well as leisure and recreation facilities that promotes community wellbeing, engagement, and connections.

Investment and Economic Development Mission Statement

The Investment and Economic Development Unit exists to direct and implement the Investment and Economic Development Strategy 2024-2028 and beyond, focussing on improving quality of life for people living, working, studying and visiting the City of Whitehorse.

Consultation Process 

Two stages of community engagement occurred over the past two years that significantly contributed to the creation and refinement of the I&EDS. Stage 1 comprised of workshops and engagement to understand the local issues and opportunities related to economic development. As a result of Stage 1, two reports were produced (the Whitehorse Community and Industry Engagement ( PDF 1.47MB) report and the Whitehorse Economic Analysis ( PDF 3.27MB) report). Five key themes that were identified and were a focal point for the documents creation. Stage 2 sought feedback on the draft I&EDS.