Brisbane back in business after floods
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Just weeks after the devastating floods that hit the city, Brisbane’s residents and business community are getting on with the job of recovery. The city’s Lord Mayor, Campbell Newman, emphasised the importance of an active business and industry sector in the rebuilding process of the city.
“Despite the recent flood, Brisbane remains an economic powerhouse and we will work with all levels of government and business to ensure the city’s speedy economic recovery,” Mayor Newman said. “Brisbane City Council actually expects to see stimulus in Brisbane’s economy, particularly in the construction and building sector as the rebuilding continues. Our sense of purpose has never been stronger and we’re back on track to continue building a prosperous future for residents and the business community.”
Brisbane’s AU$104 billion (US$103 billion) local economy is driven by a competitive business base and strong population growth. Brisbane Marketing, the city’s economic development agency, will focus on economic recovery and opportunities for growth and investment.
Chief Executive Officer of Brisbane Marketing, John Aitken, said that with Brisbane’s central business district once again alive with activity, the domestic and international airports operational throughout and the Port of Brisbane open, it’s clear that Brisbane is very much back to business.
“The committed citywide effort towards recovery, strong leadership and incredible display of community spirit throughout the crisis has seen Brisbane, Australia’s new world city, swiftly get back to business and resume its position as a highly competitive destination for business events, investment, leisure tourism, CBD retail, major events, study and film and television production,” said Aitken.
“Business events bring in AU$170 million worth of economic value to Brisbane every year, and AU$17 billion a year nationally – it is big business – and we are committed to creating economic value for Brisbane through world-class business events.
“I am pleased to report that the vast majority of conference venues and hotels are fully operational with 25 significant conferences proceeding this financial year with an estimated value of AU$25 million.
“Their doors are open and they’re ready to welcome delegates and their families to experience all the city has to offer. Our support is also with the four Brisbane hotels who are working around the clock to reopen soon,” Aitken added.
International education is the city’s largest export contributor to the economy responsible for 2.27 billion dollars in course fees and 13,900 full time jobs in Brisbane.
Aitken said it was very fortunate that only a small number of Brisbane’s education providers were directly impacted, and all of the city’s world-class universities, English language schools, private colleges and secondary schools are open and ready to resume courses at the start of the 2011 academic year.
“We’re continuing to welcome students from around the world and on 05 March the city will host the annual Brisbane Welcomes International Students event and the Lord Mayor will announce our 2011 International Student Ambassadors.
“There’s a genuine sense of enthusiasm for the year ahead and Brisbane is primed to deliver an exceptional study experience to students from across the globe,” he said.
Worth AU$9.2 billion annually to the state, leisure tourism is another significant contributor to the Brisbane economy.
“It’s great to see the vast majority of local tourism operators, accommodation providers and key attractions throughout the Greater Brisbane region rolling out their welcome mats to visitors across the globe,” Aitken said.
“Brisbane Airport, Australia’s second busiest international airport remained open and with recently announced increased connections to China, through China Southern Airlines and to the United States through Qantas, we are seeking to increase visitation from these important markets. Our major tourism operators including Lone Pine, Riverlife, Story Bridge Adventure Climb, and Tangalooma are all open for business.
“Remember, as a capital city Brisbane offers great shopping, fantastic live entertainment and many delicious opportunities to wine and dine. The Queensland Performing Arts Centre is starting to reopen for selected performances including the popular musical Wicked so arts and culture lovers can put this back on their agenda,” he said.
“There is still plenty to see and do in Brisbane,” Aitken concluded.
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