investment prospectus 2013

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Investment Prospectus2013

Every year an increasing number of people are choosing Ballarat as a destination in which to invest and do business.

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 o�ers.

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.

CEO’s message

Ballarat is at the heartof one of the most progressive and successful growth regions in Australia.

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 SchinckChief Executive Officer, City of Ballarat

Mayor’s Message

Cr John BurtMayor, City of Ballarat

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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

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

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

CONTENTS

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THE CITY OF BALLARAT

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.

The City’s traditional economic activities were

based on gold mining and agriculture. Today the

economy is well balanced and enjoys close links with

metropolitan Melbourne and other regional centres.

Of particular interest to investors are the significant

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.

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.

As a result of its long and prosperous history

Ballarat has evolved into a centre for business

ingenuity and entrepreneurship. Our community

has contributed significantly to the development

of a robust entrepreneurial spirit, always

encouraging and supporting new and innovative

ways of doing business.

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>INTRODUCTION

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.

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THE BALLARAT LIFESTYLE

> LOCATIONThe City of Ballarat Municipality covers an area of approximately 740 square kilometres and includes the townships of Buninyong, Miners Rest, Learmonth and Cardigan Village.

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 throughto Perth in Western Australia.

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 isAustralia’s largest container and general cargo port.

> POPULATION In 2011 the estimated resident population in the City of Ballarat was 95,007 persons. In comparison to the level recorded in 2001, thisfigure equates to an annual growth rate of 1.4%, which is greater than the state average overall.

This ranks Ballarat as the second highestregional 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 Ballaratpopulation 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.

BALLARAT IS LOCATED ALONG THE FAST GROWING WESTERN HIGHWAY CORRIDOR IN THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS REGION OF VICTORIA, 110KM NORTH WEST OF MELBOURNE.

Grampians Daylesfor d

VICTORIA

GeelongWarrnambool

BALLARAT MELBOURNE To Adelaide

SYDNE YADELAID E

Units

01 ,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000

Female

Male

0-4 year s

5-9 year s

10-14 year s

15-19 year s

20-24 year s

25-29 year s

30-34 year s

35-39 year s

40-44 year s

45-49 year s

50-54 year s

55-59 year s

60-64 year s

65-69 year s

70-74 year s

75-79 year s

80-84 year s

85-89 year s

90-94 year s

95-99 year s

100 years +

Ballarat Population Age by Gender

113323

359719

7901,327

1,1141,575

1,3401,563

1,5241,762

1,8562,005

2,4622,624

2,6682,812

2,8083,117

2,8173,047

2,6403,007

2,6282,719

2,5292,592

3,2543,297

3,4323,387

3,0212,932

2,8582,729

2,6922,655

983

08

Source: ABS 2006 Census of Population and Housin g

0. 0 0. 5 1. 0 1. 5 2. 0 2. 5

Victoria

Ballara t

07-08

06-07

05-06

04-05

03-04

02-03

01-02

Ballarat Population Percentage Change

Percent

Year

0.71. 2

1. 01. 2

0. 91. 2

1. 71. 8

1. 41. 3

1. 61. 5

2. 01. 7

Source: ABS Population Estimates by Local Government Area, 2001 to 2008

0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000

2008

2007

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

2001

Ballarat Population Growth

Persons

Year

91,787

89,987

88,451

87,079

85,834

85,074

84,191

83,599

Source: ABS Population Estimates by Local Government Area, 2001 to 2008

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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.

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.

> EDUCATIONThe 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.

> RECREATIONBallarat 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 RAILBallarat 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.

BALLARAT IS A CITY WITH A DISTINCT ADVANTAGE – THE INFRASTRUCTURE

OF A CAPITAL CITY WITH THE LOWER COST BASE OF A REGIONAL CENTRE.

> THEATRE AND THE ARTSBallarat 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 large-

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.

> FOODBallarat 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 well-

known 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.

> COMMUNITY SPIRITThe 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.

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.

> WEATHERThe 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.

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> REAL ESTATE: RESIDENTIAL

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

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 PRICESRecent 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. Thisis significantly ahead of the state average of a 1.6% decline. Ballarat remians consistently more a�ordablethan residential properties in Melbourne for both houses and units.

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THE BALLARAT ADVANTAGE

>THE ECONOMY 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 whichreflect Ballarat’s dynamic economic base.

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 $10,134.303million 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.

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).

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.

The manufacturing, health and community services and retail trade sectors are major employers in the city.

>LOW COST OF LAND 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 thesupport of a dynamic growing community.

>PUBLIC UTILITIES INFRASTRUCTUREThe 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 connectedhousehold, and over 4,300 commercial connections.

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>ACCESS TO MARKETSThe 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 connectedhousehold, and over 4,300 commercial connections.


>WORKFORCE 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.

Business services , tourism and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sectors are also significant employers.

Ballarat o�ers the opportunity for successful career development for employees and new residents. Our business community encourages life long learning and professional development which we seeas vitally important to addressing skills issues in a positive and proactive manner.

>EXPORT READINESS 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.

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 relationshipswhich 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.

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 sta� and enhanced training and career prospects.

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>RAIL FREIGHTBallarat 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 freighttransport network.

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 PORTSBallarat’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 generalcargo 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.

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 over375,000 metric tonnes of freight per annum, with ample capacity to increase this quota. Airfreight rates are very competitive, making Melbourne

a high speed, low cost base to access global markets.

>BALLARAT AIRPORTBallarat’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 establishmentof an international pilot training school.

With funding assistance received from the State Government in 2012 the Ballarat Airport underwent signi�cant 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.

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KEY INDUSTRY SECTORS

>RETAILBallarat’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.

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.

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 for70% 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).

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 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.

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 willbe required for food retailing, 47,300m2 for bulky goods retailing, 9,300m2 for non food retailing, and 4,500m2 for retail services.

Maxitrans (Australia’s largest supplier of road transport trailing solutions) and McCain Foods (Aust) Pty Ltd among others.

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 inBallarat include a focus on value add production in emerging technology related sectors like agritech, biotech and envirotech.

>MANUFACTURING 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.

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 AustralianIndustry 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.

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 sizedniche enterprises operating within the manufacturing sector, the majority of employment is generated by a group of major operators which include Masterfoods Australasia, Haymes Paints,

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>CONSTRUCTION AND PROPERTYBallarat 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.

The plan also provides for new town centres

in Alfredton and Delacombe, community

infrastructure, recreation and sports grounds,

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.

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>HEALTHBallarat’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.

>BALLARAT HEALTH SERVICESBallarat 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 HOSPITALEstablished 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.

eHEALTHeHealth 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

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.

>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.

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>TOURISMTourism 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 sub-region 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 andNorth America.

The key product strengths of Ballarat have been identified as History and Heritage, Art and Culture, Gardens and Major Events.

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 tofully maximise opportunities.

Tourism is worth approximately $335 million per annum to the local economy, underlining the continuing importance of the sector to Ballarat.

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

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 toexplore 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 theGoldfields 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 internationaland Australian firms, right down to small and micro businesses.

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.

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

TELECOMMUNICATIONBallarat has a high demand for efficient and reliabletelecommunications 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 broadbandservices 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.

expertise, as well as enabling technology for the rest of Ballarat’s knowledge based economy.

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.

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 skillsand 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.

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>AGRIBUSINESSThe 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.

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.

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.

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.

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Key Contact andFurther Information

Key ContactCity of BallaratEconomic Development UnitTelephone 03 5320 5500Fax 03 5333 [email protected]

Further InformationCity of Ballaratwww.ballarat.vic.gov.au

Australian Industry Groupwww.aigroup.asn.au

Ballarat ICT Limitedwww.ballaratict.com.au

Commerce Ballaratwww.commerceballarat.com

Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industrywww.vecci.org.au

Ausindustrywww.ausindustry.gov.au

Austradewww.austrade.gov.au

Business in Victoriawww.business.vic.gov.au

Multimedia Victoriawww.mmv.vic.gov.au

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

[email protected]

www.businessballarat.com

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