By Esther Lauaki
A planned innovation hub and work space could bring employment closer to home for more Wyndham residents.
A feasibility study into a council-funded innovation hub, and a privately funded co-working space in Wyndham was tabled at a special meeting last month.
Future-focused economy portfolio holder Cr Walter Villagonzalo said the report offered a compelling case for the two new spaces.
“This report has taken into account the current small business and start-up landscape in Wyndham, the emergence of the knowledge economy, and the need for Wyndham to continue its transition into a destination for new economy, jobs and investment,” Cr Villagonzalo said.
“Given Wyndham’s convenient location between Melbourne and Geelong, and the forecast growth in the area, we are well positioned to establish ourselves as a centre for business investment.
“Innovation hubs are the way of the future. Taking the form of a physical and virtual place formed by people, start-ups and various types of organisations, they bring together talented thinking, networking, education providers, and members of the community to share knowledge, ideas and skills.
“This study has shown that there is an appetite for an innovation hub locally, supported by council.
“With so many new businesses popping up across Wyndham, a co-working space is definitely needed. Council will now commence work to attract a private operator to establish a space like this locally.”
