Cleverness and creativity are attributes unique to each of us.

In terms of delivering our community’s 30-year vision and aspirations being clever and creative is about developing a consistent approach to get things done.

This means collaborating to address our challenges and opportunities embracing innovation and new ways of doing things.

And it’s not just for the tech-savvy or emerging industries - it applies to everyone and all business sectors and industries.

Our communitys view

A clever and creative future:

• has business diversity that inspires a broad range of education and employment opportunities
• attracts start-ups innovative businesses and a can-do attitude
• uses a variety of affordable technologies to provide universal digital access
• makes travel between suburbs easier through a network of pedestrian and cycle paths
• excites local and international visitors who are interested in its events festivals landscapes and food
• is designed to create an active street
• has a strong sense of community and uplifts its vulnerable community members
• is designed around people and makes the best use of technology and sustainable living
• is devoted to research and encourages economically viable environmentally sound and socially responsible solutions to its challenges
• has a global outlook and is connected to the world by technology
• recognises the uniqueness and significance of its natural environments.

Foundations for a clever and creative City-region

A snapshot of Greater Geelongs existing strengths.

Economic Assets

• proximity to Western Victoria and Melbourne provides two-way access to markets and investment
• established business associations community groups and networks
• an emerging cluster of start-ups
• capabilities in advanced manufacturing industrial design and technology
• scientific facilities and expertise in health and infectious diseases
• a growing population
• strong leadership in education healthcare social insurance and social investment sectors
• regional food production and agribusiness
• exciting destinations attract local and international visitors.

Infrastructure

• a diverse range of education facilities
• port rail airport and freight infrastructure
• available commercial and industrial land
• established sporting and cultural infrastructure
• a variety of relatively affordable housing options
• established cultural and arts facilities.

Natural assets

• a diverse and unique natural environment
• networks of open space reserves and parks
• spectacular rural and coastal landscapes
• internationally significant natural areas
• the city’s location in relation to the bay and northerly aspect.

People strengths

• a strong sense of community
• a diverse range of local community activities
• resilient residents committed to the future of Greater Geelong
• a history of inventors creators and innovation
• contributions to our arts and culture
• a broad range of creative industries
• community service organisations supporting vulnerable residents.

Short-term priorities

• high-speed digital infrastructure
• student and research precincts
• vibrant public spaces
• support for start-up initiatives
• facilities to attract world-class events
• collaborations addressing social and economic vulnerability
• united leadership and a global outlook.