Media Release
10 May 2012

64 Actions to Auckland’s Prosperity Well Underway

Completion of the first stages of an ultrafast broadband network for urban Auckland by June, a one-stop Auckland careers website by October, and a joint skills plan that asks employers what skills, activities and investment they need to prosper, were all this week reported to Auckland Council’s Economic Forum.

Solid progress is being made toward the council’s Economic Development Strategy (EDS), which contains 64 actions to create jobs and spur economic growth for a more prosperous Auckland.

“The Economic Development Strategy has moved from a development stage to one of implementation,” said Economic Forum Chair, Arthur Anae.

“Developing skilled people who are ready for the jobs which Auckland will need in the 21st century is absolutely essential to our region’s success. Schools, employers and industry must work together to this end. Matching people’s skills and jobs is what it’s all about and we are seeing some great examples of this now emerging.”

This approach is also supported by initial findings from the Joint Skills Plan for Auckland study, led by the Committee for Auckland, in partnership with Auckland Council and the Department of Labour, which identifies greater communication and partnerships between industry and educational institutions as key to growth.

The 64 actions, which have not yet formally been adopted by council, are outlined in the Auckland Plan.

Careers New Zealand projects are moving forward including the establishment of a one-stop Auckland careers website, which will show current and future demand for specific careers, the training needed to enter these careers, along with current vacancies. A careers’ blueprint focuses on connecting schools and industry through practical programmes such as scholarships and internships.

The Economic Forum also yesterday reported that the first stage of the government’s ultrafast broadband initiative in urban Auckland is on track for completion by the end of June, as well as rural broadband initiatives for places such as Hunua, Awhitu, Muriwai and Great Barrier Island.

Harvey Brookes, Manager of Economic Development at Auckland Council: “Our initiatives focus on getting action as soon as possible towards our goals of economic transformation for Auckland. We are focused on bringing key players together to identify the best way forward and offer council’s guidance and support as needed.

“Having an agreed strategy with wide support from business, our government partners and key stakeholders ensures all the initiatives share a common set of goals, are achievable sustainable and efficient.”

Ends

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