2013
Investment Prospectus
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Mayor’s Message
CEO’s message
Every year an increasing number of people are choosing Ballarat as a destination in which to invest and do business.
Ballarat is at the heartof one of the most progressive and successful growth regions in Australia.
Ballarat is one of the state’s most vibrant regional cities – progressive, optimistic and innovative. We are a dynamic regional centre with a strong economy and positive growth in the manufacturing, information and communication technology, health and education sectors. This Council is committed to building our local industry capability. By providing new and ongoing opportunities for industry and business that will stimulate development, we can help ensure Ballarat’s economy is viable and sustainable in the long term. Council’s role is to help foster an approach to business and the economy, which backed by a supportive community, provides opportunities for retraining and up-skilling workers, which makes the most of its abilities and strengths and which works to promote and develop the interests of Ballarat’s business and industries. Our economic development strategy provides a working framework to enable Council to help the business community capitalise on Ballarat’s strengths and the opportunities it offers. Ballarat’s economic development strategy enhances our position as a strong, prosperous city and a leader in the region. Ballarat has a bright future. By working together we can secure growth, attract investment, create jobs and build prosperity. Cr John Burt Mayor, City of Ballarat
This growth has been achieved through ha rd work, long term strategic planning and a pro-active Council-led approach that views sustainable economic development and planned growth as the keys to the city’s long term future. Attracting new residents and investment t o the region brings many benefits. It stimulates the economy, generates demand for goods and services and helps ensure the availability of a skilled workforce. Council understands that sustainable grow th can only be achieved through strategic, long term planning which looks at the big picture to create a rich, vibrant and prosperous city. We will continue to work in partnership w ith local, national and international businesses, industry and governments to deliver sustainable economic growth, and to drive investment and infrastructure development for the long term prosperity of the city. The City of Ballarat Investment Prospectu s has been developed to promote Ballarat and to inform you, potential investors, about Ballarat’s capacity to meet the specific requirements of your business. We look forward to welcoming you to Balla rat, a city that holds the promise of a better life. Anthony Schinck Chief Executive Officer, City of Ballarat
CONTENTS The City of Ballarat 6 Introduction 6 The Ballarat Lifestyle 8 Location 8 Population 9 Education 10 Recreation 10 Commuter Rail 10 Theatre and the Arts 11 Food 11 Community Spirit 11 Weather 11 Real Estate: Residential 12
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Key Industry Sectors 20 Retail 20 Manufacturing 21 Construction and Property 22 Health 24 Education 25 Tourism 26 Information and Communications Technology (ICT) 27 Agribusiness 28 Key Contact and Further Information 30 Key Contact 30 Further Information 30
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
The Ballarat Advantage 14 The Economy 14 Low Cost of Land 15 Public Utilities Infrastructure 15 Workforce 16 Export Readiness 17 Access to Markets 17
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>INTRODUCTION
THE CITY OF BALLARAT BALLARAT IS A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE, WITH LOW COMMUTING TIMES, A CLEAN, SAFE ENVIRONMENT AND ALL THE FACILITIES YOU WOULD EXPECT FROM A REGIONAL CITY. Only one hour from the outskirts of Melbourne, Ballarat is situated in the gently undulating midland plains of the central highlands, with its natural beauty and rich agriculture. With a diverse range of industries and opportunities, Ballarat is a regional centre with appeal.
Industry leaders who have taken up the advantages of investing in Ballarat include; IBM Global Service, McCain Foods (Aust), Masterfoods Australia, FMP Group and the Victorian State Revenue Office.
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
CITY OF OF BALLARAT BALLARAT 2011 2012 PROSPECTUS PROSPECTUS CITY
As a result of its long and prosperous history The City’s traditional economic activities were Ballarat has evolved into a centre for business based on gold mining and agriculture. Today the ingenuity and entrepreneurship. Our community economy is well balanced and enjoys close links with has contributed significantly to the development metropolitan Melbourne and other regional centres. of a robust entrepreneurial spirit, always encouraging and supporting new and innovative Of particular interest to investors are the significant ways of doing business. advantages that Ballarat has to offer. These include a growing population, a loyal and skilled workforce, a sophisticated business sector, excellent location and supporting transport infrastructure, a strong education and research sector, world class health facilities and access to significant regional catchments. When these advantages are combined with a strategic and proactive Council then the outcome is a business environment that is innovative and dynamic.
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THE BALLARAT LIFESTYLE BALLARAT IS LOCATED ALONG THE FAST GROWING WESTERN HIGHWAY CORRIDOR IN THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS REGION OF VICTORIA, 110KM NORTH WEST OF MELBOURNE. > LOCATION
> POPULATION
The City of Ballarat Municipality covers an area of approximately 740 square kilometres and includes the townships of Buninyong, Miners Rest, Learmonth and Cardigan Village.
In 2011 the estimated resident population in the City of Ballarat was 95,007 persons. In comparison to the level recorded in 2001, this figure equates to an annual growth rate of 1.4%, which is greater than the state average overall.
Ballarat’s close proximity to Melbourne allows for easy access to metropolitan Melbourne, with the Tullamarine International Airport just over an hour away, as is the Port of Melbourne, which is Australia’s largest container and general cargo port.
This ranks Ballarat as the second highest regional city for growth in Victoria. The population of the City of Ballarat is expected to increase by approximately 20,000 persons by 2031, which will see the Ballarat population rise to over 110,000 people (source: DSE, Victoria in Future 2004). The projected growth rate for the City of Ballarat is higher than that forecast for Melbourne and the state of Victoria (both 0.8%). The median age of residents in the City of Ballarat is 35.
100 years +
0 8
95-99 year s
9 83
Ballarat Population Percentage Change
Male
113 323
85-89 year s
359
1. 2 1. 4
04-05
1. 3 1. 6
05-06
790
80-84 year s
Victoria
1. 2 0. 9
03-04 719
Ballara t
1. 2 1. 0
02-03
Year
90-94 year s
0.7
01-02
Female
1. 5
1,327
1. 7 1. 8
06-07
1,114
75-79 year s
1,575
0. 0
1,524 1,762
65-69 year s
1. 7
1. 0
0. 5
1. 5
2. 5
2. 0
Percent
1,856 2,005
60-64 year s
2. 0
07-08
1,340 1,563
70-74 year s
Source: ABS Population Estimates by Local Government Area, 2001 to 2008 2,462 2,624
55-59 year s
2,668 2,812
50-54 year s 45-49 year s
2,808 3,117
40-44 year s
2,817 3,047
35-39 year s
2,640
30-34 year s
2,628 2,719
Ballarat Population Growth
3,007
2,529 2,592
25-29 year s
Year
It is bound by Hepburn, Moorabool, Golden Pla ins and Pyrenees Shires. Easily accessible by road and rail, the City of Ballarat is serviced by four major highways, the Western Freeway, Midland, Glenelg and Sunraysia highways, and via rail along the interstate rail transport corridor between Melbourne and Adelaide in South Australia through to Perth in Western Australia.
Ballarat Population Age by Gender
3,254 3,297
20-24 year s
3,432 3,387
15-19 year s
01
,000
2,000
3,000
84,191
2003
85,074
2004
85,834
2005
87,079 88,451 89,987
2008
91,787
0
2,692 2,655
0-4 year s
2002
2007
2,858 2,729
5-9 year s
83,599
2006
3,021 2,932
10-14 year s
2001
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
Persons 4,000
5,000
Source: ABS Population Estimates by Local Government Area, 2001 to 2008
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VICTORIA Grampians
Daylesfor d
To Adelaide
BALLARAT
Geelong Warrnambool
MELBOURNE
SYDNE Y
Source: ABS 2006 Census of Population and Housin
g
2012 PROSPECTUS
ADELAID E
CITY OF BALLARAT
CITY OF BALLARAT
2012 PROSPECTUS
Units
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THE BALLARAT LIFESTYLE BALLARAT IS A CITY WITH A DISTINCT ADVANTAGE – THE INFRASTRUCTURE OF A CAPITAL CITY WITH THE LOWER COST BASE OF A REGIONAL CENTRE.
Ballarat boasts all the artistic and cultural wealth that comes with its spectacular rise from humble mining settlement to a world famous city with elegant architecture, broad tree lined streetscapes and cultivated European gardens.
> EDUCATION The City of Ballarat also boasts some of the state’s leading secondary colleges. There are nine secondary colleges, four government and five private, and over 50 primary schools to choose from. Ballarat is fortunate to have two universities covering a broad range of programs from certificate level through to doctorates of research.
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
> RECREATION
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Ballarat boasts over 140 neighbourhood parks, 39 sporting grounds, over 40km of walking trails, 8 aquatic facilities and several exceptional golf courses, including two championship courses, featuring a Robert Allenby designed course at Forest Resort, and also a Peter Thompson designed course at the Ballarat Golf Club. Cyclists are also well catered for in Ballarat, with many significant National cycling events, such as
the Australian Open Road Cycling Championships and the Come to Life Classic. Additionally, Ballarat boasts in excess of 50 kilometres of off road cycling tracks to compliment the many kilometres of on road bicycle lanes. Ballarat has the best of both worlds – a captivating history and a contemporary urban lifestyle, Ballarat is a city where you can enjoy a coffee or meal in a city café, then, minutes later be walking a bushland trail surrounded by the majesty of nature.
> COMMUTER RAIL Ballarat boasts an excellent commuter rail service to Melbourne, enabling residents easy access to metropolitan Melbourne, and similarly, visitors and tourists easy access to Ballarat. Travel times are approximately one hour and ten minutes, and have been significantly reduced with the introduction of the Regional Fast Rail in 2006, which further enhances Ballarat’s lifestyle and affordability appeal. Currently there are 37 train services per day between Ballarat and Melbourne, enabling unprecedented access into Melbourne and beyond. The Wendouree Train Station was built to compliment the current historical and centrally located station and will continue to support Ballarat’s continued population growth. Ballarat offers a modern, fast and efficient passenger transport system competitive with other regional centres and metropolitan areas. It will continue to generate increased commuter and visitor traffic, with economic flow on effects for the entire community.
> THEATRE AND THE ARTS
> COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Ballarat has a lively scene in both the visual and performing arts. There is a vigorous community of professional artists, including teachers and students from the University of Ballarat’s Arts Academy. As well as the commercial gallery spaces, there are regular exhibitions at the Arts Academy’s Post Office Gallery and the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest and largest regional gallery. There are a range of theatre shows regularly presented in Ballarat, from cabaret to drama. Focus for largescale performances is the historic Her Majesty’s Theatre, but there are also smaller performance venues, including the Arts Academy’s theatres. Ballarat’s student population also makes for a vigorous youth music scene.
The Ballarat community is connected and proud. Neighbours stop and chat, shop keepers show genuine interest in meeting your needs and the opportunities for children to develop are wide ranging and leading edge.
> FOOD Ballarat offers some of the freshest and highest quality produce available. The Ballarat Farmers Market, operating on the shores of Lake Wendouree offers residents and visitors the opportunity to purchase from over 50 stall holders, featuring organic fruit, herbs and vegetables, delicatessen style foods such as smoked bacon, salamis and olive oil. Quality coffee and fine wine is available, as is free range poultry products, sweets and fresh liquorice, just to name a few. Complimenting this is the myriad of choices available when it comes to dining out. With wellknown chefs working at some of the finest restaurants in the region, Ballarat’s close proximity to the markets and ocean enable local chefs to access some of the finest and freshest produce available.
Ballarat is a community that has a strong sense of history and it will draw you in. For new businesses, new residents or new investors Ballarat is a city of great promise and opportunity.
> WEATHER The climate in Ballarat is very much a Mediterranean climate and considered temperate, with four very distinctive seasons: ▶ Ballarat has a summer temperature range from 25 degrees Celsius to 35 degrees Celsius. Summers in Ballarat are warm to hot during the day but usually cool at night ▶ Autumn is mild and pleasant with a temperature range of 15 – 26 degrees Celsius ▶ Winter is cold and often wet and it may snow lightly once or twice a year. Day time temperatures in winter may be between 8 and 15 degrees Celsius, while at night the temperature may fall below zero degrees ▶ Spring is mild and pleasant with a temperature range of 13 – 24 degrees Celsius.
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
With a combination of world class health and educational facilities, and as one of Victoria’s largest inland cities, Ballarat offers a compelling combination of lifestyle and location. It is for these very reasons that so many people are choosing to relocate to Ballarat.
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THE BALLARAT LIFESTYLE
NUMBER OF DWELLINGS In Ballarat there are approximately 40,000 dwellings , of which the majority are stand alone houses. Semi-detached, terrace houses, units and apartments make up the remainder. More than 42 per cent are fully owned and approximately
CITYOF OFBALLARAT BALLARAT CITY
CITYOF OFBALLARAT BALLARAT CITY
2012PROSPECTUS PROSPECTUS 2012
30 per cent are in the process of being purchased. scale performances is the historic Her Majesty’s Theatre, but there are also smaller performance venues, including the Arts Academy’s theatres. Ballarat’s student population also makes for a vigorous youth music scene.
MEDIAN HOUSE PRICES Recent statistics published by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, indicate that during the 2012 December quarter, median house prices in Ballarat rose 2.2 per cent, from $285,000 to $290,000. This is significantly ahead of the state average of a 1.6% decline. Ballarat remians consistently more affordable than residential properties in Melbourne for both houses and units.
2012PROSPECTUS PROSPECTUS 2012
> REAL ESTATE: RESIDENTIAL
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THE BALLARAT ADVANTAGE >THE ECONOMY
>LOW COST OF LAND
There are over 6000 registered businesses in the Ballarat region, including major international companies such as IBM Global Services, McCain Foods, Mars and United Group Limited all of which reflect Ballarat’s dynamic economic base.
Ballarat o ropolitan Melbourne without the cost. Operating a business in Ballarat is cheaper than operating in Melbourne. Added to the competitive price of land are lower labour costs, efficient transport links and the support of a dynamic growing community.
Regularly expanding on its vision to host multinational companies, Ballarat has attracted international investment from companies in Singapore, India, Japan and South Korea and is continuing to attract investment from additional businesses internationally. According to the 2011 ABS Census data the Ballarat economy has an estimated Gross Regional Product of $4,767 million. The total output estimate for the City of Ballarat is $10,134.303 million and the total Value Added production is estimated at $4,293.27 million (Remplan 2012). The total regional export or the value of goods and services exported outside the City of Ballarat is estimated at $2,995.298 million.
>PUBLIC UTILITIES INFRASTRUCTURE The attraction of business and industry to Ballarat is contingent on the provision of excellent public utilities infrastructure, particularly in new developmental areas and estates. In this regard, Ballarat is exceptionally well serviced, by reticulated natural gas, three phase electricity and reticulated water. Furthermore, there are significant potable ground water supplies which can be accessed by bores. Central Highlands Water supplies water to approximately 112,000 people within the region, with more than 56,000 connected household, and over 4,300 commercial connections.
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The manufacturing, health and community services and retail trade sectors are major employers in the city.
2012 PROSPECTUS
Retail trade, manufacturing, property and business services, health and community services, education and tourism all contribute significantly to the Ballarat economy based on employment, regional exports, value added and local expenditure on goods and services.
CITY OF BALLARAT
CITY OF BALLARAT
2012 PROSPECTUS
While the total local expenditure by industry on goods and services sourced in the City of Ballarat is estimated at $3,024.332 million (Remplan 2012).
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THE BALLARAT ADVANTAGE >WORKFORCE
>EXPORT READINESS
>ACCESS TO MARKETS
According to the ABS 2011 census, there are 42,081 jobs in the Ballarat region. 24,034 or 57.1% percent are in the top five sectors of retail trade, health and community services, manufacturing, education, construction.
The Ballarat region is home to one of the largest export communities in regional Australia. Ballarat’s range of export companies operate in a diverse range of industries with manufacturing, food and beverage, agribusiness, tourism and education being some of the significant contributors to the export market.
The attraction of business and industry to Ballarat is contingent on the provision of excellent public utilities infrastructure, particularly in new developmental areas and estates. In this regard, Ballarat is exceptionally well serviced, by reticulated natural gas, three phase electricity and reticulated water. Furthermore, there are significant potable ground water supplies which can be accessed by bores.
Business services , tourism and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sectors are also significant employers. Ballarat offers the opportunity for successful career development for employees and new residents. Our business community encourages life long learning and professional development which we see as vitally important to addressing skills issues in a positive and proactive manner.
Ballarat has a culture of encouraging export, export readiness and promoting the capabilities of the region. The City of Ballarat is committed to the cultivation and growth of international relationships which promise to deliver investment and export opportunities to the local and regional business communities. Ballarat has formed significant partnerships with India, which have resulted in significant investment into the region.
Central Highlands Water supplies water to approximately 112,000 people within the region, with more than 56,000 connected household, and over 4,300 commercial connections.
CITY OF BALLARAT
2012 PROSPECTUS
CITY OF BALLARAT
2012 PROSPECTUS
Ballarat recognises that exporting is a profitable avenue for the expansion of business and reducing the dependence on the local market. Furthermore, via exposure to overseas business through trade relationships, Ballarat businesses are improving their ability to compete in the domestic marketplace. The Ballarat businesses that have exported have benefited through improved growth prospects, better skilled staff and enhanced training and career prospects.
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THE BALLARAT ADVANTAGE
Each year, approximately 6.4 metric tonne of freight is carried by road and rail – through Ballarat, from Melbourne to Victoria’s western region. In addition, 5.7 metric tonne of freight is carried through Ballarat, from Western Victoria to Melbourne for interstate and international export.
>INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT PORTS
CITY OF BALLARAT
2012 PROSPECTUS
Ballarat’s road and rail networks provide easy access to international markets through the Port of Melbourne, which is Australia’s largest container and general cargo port, handling 38% of the nation’s container trade. Approximately 42 container shipping lines, as well as a number of other general cargo carriers, make around 3,200 ship calls per annum to Melbourne, providing services to ports across the globe. The Port of Melbourne handles approximately 29 metric tonne per annum. Ballarat’s road and rail transport also provides easy access to the Port of Geelong and the Port of Portland in South Western Victoria.
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In addition, Ballarat’s transport infrastructure provides ready access to Melbourne’s Tullamarine International Airport, which is the largest 24 hour, curfew free, freight and passenger airport in Australia. Major freight carriers operate dedicated freight services from Melbourne to Europe, Asia and North America. The airport currently handles over 375,000 metric tonnes of freight per annum, with ample capacity to increase this quota. Airfreight rates are very competitive, making Melbourne
>BALLARAT AIRPORT Ballarat’s Airport is well equipped to meet regional needs, and will be developed to accommodate future regional and interstate demand. The Ballarat Airport is easily accessible, located seven kilometres north-west of the city centre on 476 hectares of land, and less than one kilometre from the Western Freeway. Infrastructure at the Airport consists of three runways, two taxiways, a 30,000m2 apron, five hangers with direct apron access, a 150m2 terminal building, other commercially leased buildings, two refuelling facilities, a non directional beacon and an automatic weather station. The facilities at the Ballarat Airport support a number of commercial aviation enterprises including, aerial agriculture, corporate charter, recreational charter, aircraft support services, and recently the establishment of an international pilot training school. With funding assistance received from the State Government in 2012 the Ballarat Airport underwent significant infrastructure improvements. Improvements to the Airport precinct will attract logistics companies and other industrial activities to the region. There is now the opportunity to cater for a second cluster of innovative industries through the development of the Ballarat Aiport Commercial Precinct.
2012 PROSPECTUS
Ballarat is ideally situated along the interstate rail transport corridor between Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth providing Ballarat businesses and industry with seamless access to Victoria’s freight transport network.
a high speed, low cost base to access global markets.
CITY OF BALLARAT
>RAIL FREIGHT
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KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS Ballarat’s retail industry plays a very important role in the local economy and employs over 5,000 people. Of those employed in this sector, 41% are employed in personal and household goods retailing, 38% in food retailing, 18% in motor vehicle retailing and the remaining 3% in other retailing.
It is further estimated that the average annual per capita retail spend for a Ballarat resident is $7,757 per person. This consists of a per capita spend of $4,051 in food retailing, $1,493 in bulky goods retailing, $1,697 in non-food retailing and $516 in retail services.
The retail industry has experienced a long period of sustained growth of approximately 3.4% per annum. This growth is forecast to continue for at least the next ten years.
The shopping precinct with the highest retail spend is in the Ballarat Central Business District (CBD) which includes the Bridge Mall, Sturt Street and Central Square, accounting for 51% of the total retail spend. It is estimated that there is 208,000m2 of occupied retail floor space in Ballarat, distributed across a range of di rent shopping precincts.
Ballarat is a regional retail hub, with a catchment of over 201,000 people and a trading area which includes neighbouring municipalities and extends into Western Victoria. There is a considerable variety of retailers in the city, ranging from national retailers, commercial and light industrial retailers, to niche retailers. The total value of Ballarat’s retail spend is approximately $810.4 million per year. It is estimated that Ballarat residents account for 70% of the total retail spend ($572.4 million), the wider Ballarat trading area accounts for 15% ($119 million), and visitors account for the remaining 15% ($119 million).
Manufacturing is the largest contributor to local expenditure with over $700 million circulating in the Ballarat economy. Ballarat’s manufacturing industry has a strong and solid future based on diversity of product and a strong export focus. In the Australian Industry Group’s 2004 Industry in the Regions report, central Victoria, of which Ballarat is the main regional manufacturing centre, came in a close second in the national Regional Business Competitiveness Index. Ballarat manufacturers also scored well in terms of business leadership, operational style, research and development and they out-performed metropolitan companies in terms of profitability.
Education for the manufacturing sector is about to enter into a new and exciting era with the establishment of a specifically designed manufacturing training facility at the University of Ballarat SMB campus. Future opportunities identified for the manufacturing sector in Ballarat include a focus on value add production in emerging technology related sectors like agritech, biotech and envirotech.
There are existing and emerging clusters in automotive, industrial machinery, food processing, furniture production, textile and clothing sectors. While there are a number of small-medium sized niche enterprises operating within the manufacturing sector, the majority of employment is generated by a group of major operators which include Masterfoods Australasia, Haymes Paints,
CITY OF BALLARAT
Over the next ten years it is anticipated that Ballarat will require an additional 69,300m2 of retail floor space to accommodate increase in demand. In particular, it is estimated that a further 8,200m2 will be required for food retailing, 47,300m2 for bulky goods retailing, 9,300m2 for non food retailing, and 4,500m2 for retail services.
Ballarat’s manufacturing industry has been the mainstay of the local economy for over a century. Manufacturing is by far Ballarat’s largest export sector with $671 million exported annually.
Maxitrans (Australia’s largest supplier of road transport trailing solutions) and McCain Foods (Aust) Pty Ltd among others.
CITY OF BALLARAT
2012 PROSPECTUS
>MANUFACTURING
2012 PROSPECTUS
>RETAIL
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KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS >CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTY Ballarat continues to support a strong construction sector in both residential and commercial areas. Projected positive population growth will provide new opportunities to existing and new businesses and to investors. With new residential developments such as The Chase, Insignia and Sailors Gully, Ballarat’s domestic construction industry remains a solid performer. The City of Ballarat has identified the need for planning for sustainable and managed growth, and as a result has adopted the ‘Ballarat West Growth Area Plan’. The plan will guide the growth within Ballarat West up to and beyond 2030. It will cater predominately for residential growth and has the capacity for over 14,000 new households, accommodating a population of 35,000 to 40,000 people.
and direction for the development of a future residential community. Applications and building approvals continue to increase involume for Ballarat, indicating the regions strength in the domestic building sector. Similarly, the commercial sector is enhanced by ongoing industrial estates in Ballarat West and major infrastructure developments within the health sector. Overall Ballarat’s construction sector is one that continues to provide a significant boost to employment and ongoing investment. The total output of the construction sector is $847 million which represents 8% of total output of the Ballarat Economy. Total employment in this sector is 2,112 jobs. Key features of the sector include a diverse range of enterprises that seek out contracts locally, regionally and nationally. $115.4 million is generated by this sector in regional exports.
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
The plan also provides for new town centres in Alfredton and Delacombe, community infrastructure, recreation and sports grounds,
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KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS Ballarat’s health and community services sector is rapidly growing. It is the region’s second largest employer, with approximately 5,800 people employed in the field. Health and community services contribute $246 million in regional exports and $455 million in value add products and services. The city’s health facilities are comprehensive and service the entire region. Ballarat Health Services is the largest regional hospital in the Grampians region, and as such, is the principal referral hospital for the entire region, which extends from Bacchus Marsh to the south Australian border, an area which spans 48,000 square kilometres. Situated adjacent to Ballarat Health Services is St John of God Hospital, both of these services have developed an effective collaborative alliance.
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
>BALLARAT HEALTH SERVICES
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Ballarat Health Services has been providing health care for the Ballarat and Grampians region for over 150 years. Ballarat Health Services is a total health care provider, delivering a comprehensive range of general and specialist care, across every key medical and healthcare discipline. The key services are based at two sites, the Base Hospital site and the Queen Elizabeth Centre site. Each is located close to the central Business District, with the remaining residential, day centres and community sites located throughout Ballarat. A comprehensive range of generalist and specialist care services is delivered by Ballarat Health Services, across every key medical and healthcare discipline including:
▶ Acute care ▶ Sub acute care ▶ Residential care ▶ Community care ▶ Psychiatric services ▶ Rehabilitation services
>ST JOHN OF GOD HOSPITAL Established in 1915, St John of God Hospital is the largest private hospital in regional Victoria, and has 196 beds. There is an extensive range of services offered, which continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to deliver specialist and clinical excellence to both the local Ballarat community and the wider western Victoria region. As a private hospital, St John of God Hospital differs, in that it owns and operates its own emergency department, licensed pharmacy, obstetric services, imaging department and linen service over and above the range of other services typically provided by private hospitals. Having completed the development of a completely new hospital adjacent to the original hospital, St John of God Hospital offers all of the above services in a modern and purpose built facility.
eHEALTH eHealth has been identified as a sub-sector of the health industry that has significant potential to grow the local economy. In 2009 Council completed an eHealth capability study to fully understand the strengths of the local eHealth sector. The study identified several key opportunities and activities that will assist in the continued development of this emerging sector
>EDUCATION The education sector employs 3,554 people and contributes $139 million to regional exports. An increasing demand for student places, a growing international market, along with some of the finest secondary and tertiary institutions in Victoria, indicates the health of the education and training sector in Ballarat. With two internationally accredited Universities located within Ballarat (University of Ballarat and Australian Catholic University), the city is well served for all aspects of higher education. The University of Ballarat is regional Victoria’s largest institution with three campuses in Ballarat providing easy access to a multitude of programs including certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees including masters and doctorates by research. 1500 staff assist 17,500 domestic students and 7500 international students and businesses to provide fast paced, dynamic and innovative learning environments. The university is a dual sector (both higher education and TAFE) university which continues to provide relevant and best practice education. Continuing growth in the education sector has resulted in increased investment activities in the development of purpose built student housing. The level of investment, along with the buoyant local economy has cemented Ballarat as a key study location and destination for regional Victoria. University of Ballarat also offers excellent research capability with four designated research centres this is a further asset to the Ballarat business community.
The Australian Catholic University ACU offers academic programs in education, theology and nursing. With over 600 students, the campus offers quality teaching in an environment that supports a highly valued university lifestyle. ACU graduates enjoy one of the best rates of employment in Australia (Source: Graduate Careers Council of Australia). Many find jobs using their professional skills before they have graduated. As the education sector continues to strengthen, the City of Ballarat attracts more students. It is a strategic objective of Council to grow the education sector. By increasing student numbers, the city can foster innovation, investment, harness knowledge and add vitality to Ballarat.
CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
>HEALTH
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>TOURISM Tourism plays an important role in Ballarat’s economy and is a growing industry. Tourism Research Australia data for the year ending December 2008, show that Ballarat, as a subregion of the Goldfields, attracted more than 518,000 domestic overnight visitors, 18,257 international visitors and more than 1.4 million day trippers. The average spend per visitor night is $220 and the average length of stay is 2.4 nights. The key high yield domestic markets include; Melbourne (54%), Regional Victoria (31%), interstate (16%). The key international markets include; Europe, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Asia and North America. The key product strengths of Ballarat have been identified as History and Heritage, Art and Culture, Gardens and Major Events.
2012 PROSPECTUS
Tourism is worth approximately $335 million per annum to the local economy, underlining the continuing importance of the sector to Ballarat.
CITY OF BALLARAT
The identified investment opportunities for the City of Ballarat include the establishment of boutique accommodation associated with heritage, and the development of tourism infrastructure and product to capitalise on the Arts and Cultural Precinct and Lake Wendouree Precinct. Also, high quality accommodation integrated with conference, convention and expo facilities are still required to fully maximise opportunities.
Tourism is also an important employer in Ballarat, with a local workforce of 2,013 people employed in the accommodation, cafes and restaurants servicing the sector. In addition it should be noted
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that visitor expenditure provides significant support to local retailers. Some of the key attractions in the Ballarat region include: ▶ The Art Gallery of Ballarat ▶ Ballarat Bird World ▶ Ballarat Tramway Museum ▶ Ballarat Wildlife Park ▶ The Eureka Centre ▶ Her Majesty’s Theatre ▶ Kirrit Barreet Aboriginal Art & Cultural Centre ▶ Kryal Castle ▶ The Lake Precinct including the Ballarat Botanical Gardens ▶ Sovereign Hill and Blood on the Southern Cross ▶ Wineries Ballarat is readily accessible from all parts of Victoria via an excellent highway network and is just over one hours drive from Victoria’s two major airports. Many visitors find Ballarat is the perfect base to explore other regions such as a journey around the Great Southern Touring Route (taking in the Great Ocean Road, Geelong and the Grampians National Park) or to discover historic townships in the Goldfields region
> INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) Ballarat is home to over 100 ICT businesses which employ in excess of 2,000 people, with the industry continuing to grow. Businesses range in size from multinationals to medium size international and Australian firms, right down to small and micro businesses.
Adjacent to the University of Ballarat’s Mt Helen Campus, the UBTP is ideally situated to take advantage of the applied, academic and research knowledge available at its doorstep, with opportunities to broker strategic alliances and commercial relationships. The proximity to the University allows tenants of UBTP to attract the skills and talent that will assist them in achieving their objectives. Established in 1995 the UBTP is a well developed technology precinct and is characterised by the following: ▶ Employs approximately 1500 people across 30 enterprises ▶ $300 million per annum in outputs (direct & flow on) ▶ $100 million per annum in household income (direct & flow on) ▶ $65 million per annum in household income The University of Ballarat and the City of Ballarat have identified a further 60 hectares of land to the north of the existing park for growth. This will allow for the continued expansion of this exciting and dynamic precinct. Ballarat has undertaken significant planning and organisation in relation to the ICT sector. To ensure a planned and coherent approach to the development of ICT throughout the region, the City of Ballarat has established Ballarat ICT Limited. Ballarat ICT Limited is a joint body of the City of Ballarat, the University of Ballarat and industry leaders. Ballarat ICT Limited is an independent body that plays an important role in implementing the directions and programs articulated in Ballarat ICT 2030.
Ballarat represents an important investment destination for any ICT enterprise that is keen to grow and compete in the global economy. Ballarat’s strengths include: ▶ well established and successful Technology Park supported by a young, progressive and innovative university ▶ low cost environment ▶ strong leadership from the City of Ballarat and Ballarat ICT Limited, providing a proactive development approach to the sector TELECOMMUNICATION Ballarat has a high demand for efficient and reliable telecommunications infrastructure, with approximately 74% of Ballarat residents being currently connected to the internet. This percentage indicates a highly ICT literate community. In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as an industry leader in telecommunications and has delivered a number of significant ICT outcomes including: increased community and business usage, attracting new ICT business to Ballarat and the growth of existing businesses. Ballarat residents and businesses are fortunate to have a range of high speed broadband alternatives available to them. Over 90% of the Ballarat population has access to high speed broadband services comparable to those available in metropolitan areas. For businesses looking to invest in Ballarat, a comprehensive range of fully redundant services are available, which provide high speed connectivity to the internet.
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KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS
At the core of the ICT industry is the University of Ballarat Technology Park (UBTP), located on a 29 hectare site, 10km from the centre of Ballarat.
Ballarat ICT 2030, outlines where Ballarat intends to be in the future, and implements a course of action to ensure that we continue to remain at the forefront of the ICT industry.
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expertise, as well as enabling technology for the rest of Ballarat’s knowledge based economy.
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KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS >AGRIBUSINESS The agricultural sector, while small in employment numbers, is an important sector given the fertile land and natural attributes of the region. The sector generates large multipliers for the broader region, with the total value of agricultural production in the Central Highlands region being in excess of $260 million per year. With increased land values, new farming techniques and water supply constraints, a trend is developing towards more boutique sectors such as canola, Chinese vegetables, grapes, organic wheat and berries.
This collaborative approach not only offers support to individual businesses through difficult and challenging times but also provides a measure of guarantee for the long-term viability and sustainability of the agribusiness sector. The key opportunities identified for this sector include diversification to less water intensive but high yield crops and development of bioenergy plants in the local area.
Agricultural resources generate substantial downstream opportunities in the food manufacturing sector, this is evident with major investment in Ballarat by Masterfoods, McCains, Hakubaku and others.
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CITY OF BALLARAT 2012 PROSPECTUS
The City of Ballarat, in partnership with neighbouring municipalities, established the Central Highlands Agribusiness Forum (CHAF) in March 2005. The forum brings together stakeholders from within the agribusiness sector to discuss issues, develop projects and investigate opportunities within the region for business and industry development.
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Key Contact and Further Information Key Contact City of Ballarat Economic Development Unit Telephone 03 5320 5500 Fax 03 5333 4117 business@ballarat.vic.gov.au www.ballarat.vic.gov.au
Further Information City of Ballarat www.ballarat.vic.gov.au Australian Industry Group www.aigroup.asn.au Ballarat ICT Limited www.ballaratict.com.au Commerce Ballarat www.commerceballarat.com Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry www.vecci.org.au Ausindustry www.ausindustry.gov.au Austrade www.austrade.gov.au Business in Victoria www.business.vic.gov.au
CITY OF BALLARAT
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CITY OF BALLARAT
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Multimedia Victoria www.mmv.vic.gov.au
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: City of Ballarat Economic Development Unit Town Hall Sturt Street Ballarat Vic 3350
PO Box 655 Ballarat Vic 3353 Telephone 03 5320 5500 Fax 03 5333 4117 business@ballarat.vic.gov.au www.businessballarat.com