Resources for Regions programs support Singleton’s economic evolution

Published on 03 April 2023

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Changing economic conditions, critical staff shortages and the evolution to renewable energy and new industries are the drivers for three new local economic programs to address key issues and continue Singleton’s prosperity.

Supported by the NSW Government’s Resources For Regions program, Singleton Council has teamed up with Business Singleton, regional partners and industry stakeholders to deliver the new programs, which include:

  • Industry and Workforce Development Program
  • Singleton Employment and Skills Exchange
  • Innovation and Attraction Activation Program.

Vicki Brereton, Council’s Director Organisation and Community Capacity said the programs complemented a suite of existing initiatives that had delivered real benefits to the Singleton business community, including the Switch Up Your Business digital improvement program that is currently underway.

“We have seen over 75 businesses improve their marketing and business planning skills through the Business Builder Program, and there are 25 businesses currently completing the Switch Up Your Business Digital Improvement program to improve their online presence,” she said.

“In addition, over 150 people have been supported with jobs and training advice with many linked to fee-free training opportunities through our Employment Pathways program, which has directly helped over 30 people find jobs.

“The three new programs will now focus on developing Singleton’s core industries, enabling new and emerging industries including clean energy, workforce development, investment attraction, innovation, and existing business growth.

“We’re hoping to see as many businesses as possible get involved and take advantage of these free programs to help us ensure our economy will continue to thrive, and our community will prosper for generations to come.”

Businesses will be encouraged to collaborate on plans to support Singleton’s economic future as well as create strong local and regional networks through the Industry Workforce and Development Program and Innovation and Investment Activation programs, while the Singleton Skills and Employment Exchange Program will assist Singleton residents to access jobs and career advice, fee-free skills development and connect to employers.

Business Singleton president Danny Eather said the programs built on a coordinated and strategic approach to supporting businesses now, as well as preparing for the future.

“Singleton’s economy is currently worth $15billion, the third largest economic output in the Hunter region, which is primarily driven by mining,” he said.

“The strength of the partnership between Council and Business Singleton, supported by Resources For Regions, is allowing us to deliver the local programs vital to address the short-term issues being experienced by our businesses as well as to create the vision, strategic direction and actions required to ensure a prosperous Singleton community now and in the future.”

Programs snapshot

Industry and Workforce Development Program: focuses on building capacity and resilience in core local industries to support workforce development, industry stability and future growth. The program aims to strengthen industry networks and engagement and create future direction to address the challenges and opportunities across six core industries including agriculture, manufacturing, mining services, construction, retail, and health and social assistance.

Innovation and Investment Activation Program: focuses on identifying and facilitating renewable energy and other emerging industries for the region, with a view to develop investment activation across new industries and businesses looking to locate in Singleton. The program aims to create a new industries network, and to develop and support a Singleton innovation ecosystem with local relevance which connects more broadly across the Hunter Region.

Singleton Skills and Employment Exchange Program: succeeding the Singleton Employment Pathways, the program will assist Singleton residents to access jobs and careers advice, fee-free skills development (traditional and micro credential courses) and connections to employers. This program will support all Singleton residents including transitioning, return to work, youth, mature and vulnerable workers.

For more information about Singleton Council’s business, industry and employment programs, click here or contact Karen Varker, Council’s Senior Economic Development Specialist via E business@singleton.nsw.gov.au or T 02 6578 7290.