The move has been labelled a ‘pleasant surprise’ by Daniel Donebus, a director of the Wagga Business Chamber. 

During this week’s meeting, councillors agreed to endorse an organisational restructure to include a new directorate which aims to harness the city’s growth opportunities into the future.

General manager Peter Thompson said a new Regional Activation Directorate will be established, focusing on developing and implementing economic opportunities and growth initiatives.

“Council has for some years not had an economic development capacity,” he said.

“There has been no staff here specifically dedicated to the task of attracting business and having those skills to engage with prospective or current business owners to facilitate what they would like to.

“The Regional Activation area will be headed by a director who specifically has skills in business development.”

Mr Thompson said decisions to introduce this new division are all a part of making sure they can establish Wagga as a future-focused, thriving, and recognised regional hub.

“With reaching a population of 100,00 we need to provide high quality and varied work opportunities by having a sonicated area that knows what businesses are looking for,” he said.

Mr Thompson said businesses need to feel secure before they relocate and this is a way to show what Wagga has to offer.

Mr Donebus said he was pleasantly surprised by the announcement.

“It has been an area of activity that has been lacking,” he said. 

“I congratulate council on making this a focus now and it’s a very welcome move.” 

Mr Donebus said for some time some the chamber had been fielding enquiries from potential new businesses, but the lack of clarity proved an issue. 

“The two biggest areas of benefit for any potential business is a clear source of information and a lack of ambiguity,” he said. 

“They need to know who they talk to so they get a straight answer.”

Mr Donebus said the council should now develop a clear vision of where Wagga is headed to make it clear to potential businesses. 

“We are competing with other regional cities and areas,” he said.

“Whoever makes it easiest will be in the front running.” 

Mr Donebus said he looks forward to working with Wagga City Council and his goal is to help the city achieve its fullest potential. 

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