Review and provide feedback on Draft Economic Development Framework
Published on 27 May 2026
Colac Otway residents, businesses and community stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on Council’s Draft Economic Development Framework, now on public exhibition.
The Draft Framework has been developed as a long-term direction to guide how Council will support local jobs, business growth and investment across the Shire.
Council Chief Executive Officer Andrew Tenni said the draft was developed in response to local feedback about what is needed to support sustainable economic growth.
“Council heard clearly from our community and business sector that economic development needs to be focused, realistic and aligned with the strengths of our region,” Mr Tenni said.
“This Draft Framework reflects the feedback we got and is intended to provide direction for Council to prioritise and support industry and position Colac Otway for future investment.”
More than 120 local businesses and stakeholders contributed to the development of the Draft Framework, identifying key priorities such as workforce, housing, infrastructure, planning and investment.
The Draft Framework has shifted from outlining a fixed list of actions to setting the direction and priorities of Council to guide future planning, investment and delivery, allowing Council to respond to changing conditions and maintain consistent focus.
Mr Tenni said the next stage of community feedback would be critical in ensuring the Draft Framework reflects local priorities and is practical for Council to deliver.
“Council is now asking the community to review the Draft Framework and tell us if we have the direction right and let us know if there is anything that we may have missed,” Mr Tenni said.
Following the exhibition period, Council will review all submissions and consider a final version of the Economic Development Framework.
The Draft Economic Development Framework is available for review on Council’s website, with submissions closing at 5pm Wednesday 1 July 2026.
Copies of the Draft Framework can also be viewed at Council’s Customer Service Centres in Colac and Apollo Bay.