Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026–2036
We're planning for the future and have prepared a Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026–2036 to guide economic growth, investment and opportunity across the West Kimberley over the next 10 years.
The Strategy supports the Shire's vision of "A welcoming community with opportunities to thrive" and aligns with the Council Plan 2026–2036. It provides a clear framework to drive sustainable economic development, attract investment, support local businesses and create employment opportunities across the region.
The Draft Strategy has now been approved for public advertising at the Ordinary Council Meeting held 21 May 2026 (Resolution 48/29) and we are seeking community feedback from 28 July 2026 to 18 August 2026.
Why are we preparing an Economic Development Strategy?
Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is committed to supporting a resilient, inclusive and diversified economy that creates opportunities for current and future generations.
The Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026–2036 establishes a shared vision and action plan to strengthen the region's economic future. It responds to the West Kimberley's unique strengths and challenges and identifies practical actions to support sustainable growth over the next decade.
The Strategy recognises the importance of housing, infrastructure, workforce development and economic diversification in enabling long-term prosperity. It also acknowledges the vital role of Aboriginal leadership and participation in shaping the economic future of the region.
The Draft Strategy focuses on five key priority areas:
- Tourism, brand and place identity.
- Housing and liveability as an economic enabler.
- Economic diversification and sustainable industries.
- Aboriginal economic empowerment and leadership.
- Strong coordination, partnerships and advocacy.
The Economic Development Strategy will provide strategic direction for economic development initiatives, advocacy efforts and investment attraction activities across the Shire for the next ten years.
Progress to date
The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley has worked with an EDS Project Control Group, government agencies, industry representatives, Aboriginal organisations, local businesses and community stakeholders to develop the Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026-2036.
The Strategy has been informed by economic analysis, research and stakeholder engagement, with a focus on understanding:
- What are the region's economic strengths and opportunities?
- What challenges may impact future growth?
- What actions are needed to support sustainable economic development?
Having reviewed the Draft Strategy, Council approved public advertising at the Ordinary Council Meeting held [DATE] to seek further community feedback before a final Strategy is prepared for adoption.
Overview of the steps so far:
- Economic analysis and background research undertaken to identify key trends, opportunities and challenges.
- Development of and ongoing consultation with an EDS Project Control Group.
- Engagement conducted with government, industry, Aboriginal organisations, businesses and a number of community stakeholders.
- Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026–2036 prepared.
- On 21 May 2026, Council approved the Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026–2036 for public advertising.
- Formal advertising of the Draft Strategy has commenced. Written submissions can be made between 28 July until 5:00pm on 18 August 2026.
Share your thoughts
We invite you to provide your feedback on this Draft via the following options:
Submissions are open from 28 July 2026 and close at 5:00pm on 18 August 2026.
Draft Economic Development Strategy 2026–2036 document for download:
https://www.sdwk.wa.gov.au/documents/529/draft-economic-development-strategy-2026-2036
After the submissions period closes, the Shire will review and consider submissions from the community and stakeholders, which may result in modifications to the Draft Economic Development Strategy before it is presented to Council for adoption.
