January 2022 E-news
RDAMNC’s January E-news is jam packed with links, information and resources to get you thinking about the key themes we’ll be covering in 2022: Housing, circular economy, business preparedness and workforce.
We trust you are having an enjoyable festive season and truly look forward to serving you throughout the year ahead.
Key themes:
The housing issue is a huge one in the Mid North Coast as it is across the nation. Housing was one of the key themes at Ignite MNC in 2021 and if you weren’t lucky enough to grab a ticket this year we’ll be sharing links to the sessions soon. To whet your appetite check out this robust Fan Side Chat with Core Logic’s Head of Research, Eliza Owen and Martin Musgrave Director and Chief Economist of PPM Economics. Eliza and Martin discuss the current situation hypothesising how we got here, and what the near future is likely to bring.
US based Charly Ligety who was also a guest at Ignite MNC has established The Housing Innovation Collaborative. His online portal contains an enormous array of housing ideas – with so many entities working on the housing challenge in the MNC alone we think this tool, or something similar will be a great asset for the Mid North Coast – what do you think?
Business Preparedness: There is no doubt the last few years have been tough for the business community. RDAMNC noticed one of the key challenges faced by business owners was access to timely and thorough information and support.
Not only did we try to bridge this gap via our social media, and advocating for a more collaborative approach to State and Commonwealth government, we established the Business Support hub, a guide for business owners to access the support they need right now.
By the way – don’t forget there are still a number of support programs on offer from the NSW Government including the Dine & Discover NSW voucher scheme, Alfresco Restart rebate, Commercial landlord hardship fund, Small business fees and charges rebate, First Lap learn to swim voucher program, Stay NSW Vouchers, Jobs Plus program, Export assistance grant and the Small and medium enterprise (SME) guarantee scheme.
With staff shortages still across the region, particularly in agriculture and hospitality the situation is dire for businesses in these areas. Workforce has been a key focus for RDAMNC for many years now and you’ll be delighted to hear about our new partnership with NVC Group which will see the expansion of My Future Workforce, a free online portal for employers and jobseekers in 2022. If you’re an employer seeking staff – or someone looking for a job the site is free for all to use.
The Local Jobs Program is being delivered in the Mid North Coast. THe program works to understand local workforce issues. Their latest LinkedIn updates include Hiring Young People: Challenges, The Benefits of Hiring Young People, and What Would Make Hiring a Young Person Easier? Each article shares the details of their youth survey and expands upon the most common themes expressed by the respondents in a Some things to think about section.
Have you heard about the term ‘Circular Economy’? NSW Circular describes it as “Circular economy is about decoupling economic growth from virgin resource use. Circular design of products, services and systems keep resources in the market longer, enabling sharing and reuse business models to become business as usual.”
Hear more from our first Circular Economy panel at Ignite MNC, 2021 here
There are already so many great circular economy businesses in the mid north coast. If this is your area get in touch.
BONUS section
The Christmas / new year season is often a time when people think about getting fit. What about making sure you eat right? Check out e-Raw’s weekly planner, and healthy choice resources. Did you know, the fresher your food the more nutrients it has. While you are out and about this summer, check out North Coast Flavour Trails. Productivity of your team is directly linked to their wellbeing.
Supporting local
As the state opens up and we enjoy more freedoms, be sure to show your support of local business this summer by enjoying what’s on offer and shopping locally. With more than 800 businesses listed on the NSW Government’s Buy Regional webpage it is easy to support local. If you are keen to get Creative be sure to check out Arts Mid North Coast Facebook for a range of creative experiences along the coast.
MNC Business Expos
The MNC Small Business Expos will provide small business owners in the MNC with information, connections and support to grow. The workshops will be held throughout the Mid North Coast on the following dates: Wauchope:15 February, Bellingen:22 February, Kempsey:10 March, Macksville:17 March and Taree:24 March 2022.
BBRF
Round six of the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) has opened and will close on 10 February 2022. Need support for your application? Get in touch to find out how we can assist. More information about the BBRF here.
Hope to connect with you in 2022. In the meantime wishing you a safe and happy festive season and very best wishes for the year ahead.
Thanks and regards
Kerry
Kerry Grace
Director of Regional Development and CEO
Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast