Shire of Murray chief executive Dean Unsworth has been named winner of the Peter Chaffey Economic Development Australia Leadership Award. The honour was presented at the organisation's Awards for Excellence this month. Since 2007, Mr Unsworth has overseen a Food Innovation Precinct, the revitalisation of Dwellingup as a tourism destination, and the restoration of the Exchange Hotel in Pinjarra. Shire president Douglas McLarty praised his strategic leadership and investment in staff. Mr Unsworth said the award reflected the collective work of the shire, councillors, community and businesses.
Mandurah's festivals and events strategy has won a national award for strategic thinking at the National Economic Development Awards for Excellence. The awards were presented last week in Hobart. Each year, the city's events program generates an estimated $43 million in economic impact and draws more than 2.1 million visitors. Mayor Amber Kearns said the recognition reflects the way the city plans for future events, which create jobs and support local businesses.
Glenelg Shire Council has welcomed Timberlink Australia as a new partner in The Precinct, a proposed timber manufacturing hub in the Green Triangle. Council says the partnership could bring jobs, investment and long-term economic benefits to Portland and the wider region. Mayor Karen Stephens said the move shows growing industry confidence in the project and the area. The development would make engineered timber products for modern, sustainable construction. Stephens said the project also supports Council's calls for investment in transport, freight and port infrastructure.
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First Nations businesses have been recognised at Rockhampton's annual Indigenous Business Month Celebration, held on Darumbal Country. The event explored the economic and social value Indigenous businesses add to the region through community ties and partnerships. The third iteration of the Business Recognition Awards added two new categories, Empowering Communities and Shared Prosperity. Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams said the event recognised the outstanding contribution of local Indigenous leaders and businesses.
Upper Lachlan Shire Council is inviting expressions of interest for membership of its Tourism and Economic Development s355 Advisory Committee. The committee advises council on tourism and economic development and links council with key emerging industry sectors. It meets every two months or by arrangement. Applicants must live in the council area and show relevant skills and experience. Written applications setting out qualifications, skills and experience close at 4.00pm on Monday 9 November 2026.
Community groups in Cabonne, Orange and Blayney can apply for grants of up to $20,000 through Newmont Cadia’s Community Partnership Program. The latest funding round, which closes on 3 November, supports local projects and economic development. Cadia also offers larger grants of $20,000 to $250,000 for strategic initiatives through its Legacy Fund. Groups are encouraged to contact Cadia’s Social Performance Team before applying.
A $1.8 billion rare earths mine in Central Australia has begun construction. The Nolans project, backed by the US and Australian governments and Gina Rinehart, aims to challenge China's dominance in the global market. It will produce neodymium and praseodymium for electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defence capabilities, with a lifespan of over 50 years. The mine is expected to create hundreds of jobs and generate billions of dollars for the Northern Territory.
The Northwest Regional Economic Development Committee has welcomed a full cohort of members, with the refreshed group meeting later this month for the first time.
