Economic Development

The Economic Development Officer within council looks after an array of community areas.  The unit is designed to facilitate the continual economic growth of King Island Council and to implement the objectives of all its economic areas.  These areas include Tourism, Primary Industries, Governance, King Island Brand, Natural Resources, Power Price Parity, Population and Island Access.

King Island Brand

King Island is recognised for its ability to convert primary produce into fine food that demands a premium on the domestic and world market.  This recognition and the unique location in  Bass Strait is the catalyst for a Brand that needs protection and development to ensure that its positioning in the market place is fully maximised.

King Island Brand Project

Tourism

It is recognised that tourism on King Island has the potential to grow.  King Island Council and King Island Tourism Inc are working together to develop the Island experience in partnership with industries and the community.  Good access to the Island is seen as integral to growth by the Industry. 

http://www.kingisland.org.au/

Please click to download a copy of the following information:

King Island Tourism - Quick Guide (207 kb)   

Visitor Survey Annual Report 2007/2008 (985 kb)

Primary Industry

Primary Industry is recognised as the backbone of the Island economy.  Initiatives to increase production in a sustainable manner are paramount to economic growth that will have maximum flow on to the Island economy.

Governance

The Governance Area is shared with the Community Development Unit and their role is to provide leadership for the community by advocating the issues that affect the community's ability to grow to its full potential.  The Council will work with other levels of government and organisations to promote the "King Island Way" on all occasions.

Natural Resources

The intrinsic value of King Island's natural environment needs to be preserved while allowing sustainable agricultural and aquacultural industries to continue to grow.

http://www.kingisland.net.au/~naturalresources/

Power Price Parity

The community and industry recognise that power price parity with mainland Tasmania is essential to achieve the social and economic environment that is enjoyed by other Tasmanians.

Population

To double the population by 2013 while maintaining the lifestyle that the community is accustomed to and know as the "King Island Way".

Island Access

King Island faces the challenge of ensuring that it has secure, reliable and affordable transport linkages to Victoria and Tasmania.  The King Island Council has a role as advocate in working with other organisations and Governments in ensuring that the linkages exist and are well maintained into the future.