Economic Development Strategy

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & RECOMMENDATIONS

The Town of Bassendean is located about 10 kms from the Perth CBD and covers some 10.4 square kilometres of land. Originally settled in 1832 the town played an important part in the development of the Swan River Colony and subsequently the Perth Metropolitan Area. Over the ensuing years the economic base of the town has shifted from farming to heavy industry to a desirable residential location with employment opportunities in services, retail and in the Tonkin Business Park.

At June 30th 2001 Bassendean’s population was 14,023 persons. Just over one-third
(5,328 persons) of the residential population are wage and salary earners, who in combination inject $166.2 million into the local economy. Notwithstanding, Bassendean experiences sustained, relatively high unemployment in comparison with the Perth
Average and as a result a less favourable index of socio-economic advantage than may be expected for the area.

Bassendean is currently considered as a “working class” suburb, however as with other inner city areas its stock of heritage buildings, rail access and proximity to the Perth CBD will attract an influx of professional and business people that will alter this perception.

Other drivers of demographic change include an irresistible pressure to increase housing densities caused by Perth’s population boom and looming land shortages.

Evidence of these structural changes are already apparent. Bassendean’s residential property prices have increased at a rate greater than the Perth average as in excess of
1,100 city workers have chosen Bassendean as a place to live. This trend will undoubtedly increase, spurred by the opening of the new Bassendean Railway Station in mid 2004.

The Bassendean municipal area forms part of Perth’s old suburban area and consequently is virtually indistinguishable from neighbouring communities. In addition,
Bassendean’s Town Centre is dated and urgently in need of revitalisation, a fact
recognised by the operators of local retail outlets, the shopping centre managers and the nearby Swan Districts Football Club.

Bassendean’s southern boundary addresses the Swan River. Despite this advantage, the area abutting the river has no infrastructure developed for tourism and associated purposes.

Bassendean’s Town Centre is in danger of losing its identity unless urban decline can be reversed and retail outlets more adequately provide for residents’ needs. Given this, the Town of Bassendean has commissioned the preparation of an economic development plan, which will guide the municipality’s decision making processes into the future and is aimed at maximising sustainable lifestyle, economic and employment opportunities for, and the prosperity of its residents.

This plan firstly details the economic and employment aspirations of local residents, followed by statistical data, a situation analysis, a two tiered potential project list designed to deliver desired outcomes, together with a recommended implementation structure.