Across Australia, councils are turning to economic development strategies to shape their local economies. But these strategies are far from uniform. They vary by scope, audience and approach. These differences reveal a lot about local priorities.

Investment prospectuses are rapidly becoming standard for councils who are looking to attract new capital.

Focused international engagement demands rigour: narrow the target list, define clear public-and-private roles, and track the metrics that matter.

Recovery is more than just fixing what’s broken. Done well, it can be one of the most powerful tools in the economic development toolbox.

In a global, knowledge-driven economy, people are the main driver of productivity, innovation and growth. And people - especially those with skills - are increasingly mobile.