Port Stephens business owners are being encouraged to provide feedback on ways to enhance the local commercial sector.
They’re invited to have their say throughout April on what’s working and what they’d like to see improved as part of the LGA’s Business Health Check.
The online survey takes 10 minutes to complete.
However, it’ll offer council with a valuable snapshot of the current business environment.
Port Stephens mayor Ryan Palmer said it was important for proprietors and managers to take part.
“We’ve been back in business, after COVID, for almost two years now,” he explained.
“So, we’re interested to know how they’ve responded while identifying opportunities or issues to address moving forward.
“Our Business Health Check is the perfect chance for us to connect with our business community and make sure we’re planning for the future in a way that reflects their needs.
“We’ll use the responses to help us prioritise actions in the upcoming review of our Economic Development Strategy and advocate for more funding, investment and programs that benefit local business.
“The more we know, the better decisions we can make to support and grow our economy.”
Council’s economic development specialist Deb Rodden agreed.
“In our 2021 survey, we heard businesses wanted more professional development opportunities and to focus on environmental issues and future innovation,” she said.
“They also felt we could engage more with our local schools to secure our future workforce.
“We received 250 responses and, in conjunction with boarder community consultation, we used this feedback to inform a review of the Economic Development Strategy.
“The outcomes of this laid the groundwork for 2021 to 2025, providing clear goals and identifying opportunities and challenges to help create a blueprint for growth.
“To deliver on key focus areas of the strategy, we’ve delivered projects like Mayoral Academic Scholarships, shop local campaigns, learning sessions to help businesses pitch for major contracts, while assisting them to connect with future workforce via the University of Newcastle and our schools.”
The Port Stephens Business Health Check is open until Tuesday 30 April.
“Whatever your business – whether you’re operating out of your home or a multi-national company – we want to hear from you,” Ms Rodden said.
“So, if you are in business in Port Stephens, then get involved.”
For more details and to complete the Business Health Check, visit pscouncil.info/business-health-check
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