Adelaide Economic Development Agency set up by council in 2021 to promote city and especially Rundle Mall

Funding for the special promoting of Rundle Mall as Adelaide’s premier shopping destination came from differential separate rate declared by the city council on land in the Rundle Mall precinct.
Image courtesy Rundle Mall

The Adelaide Economic Development Agency, a subsidiary of the City of Adelaide, was set up in January 2021 to accelerate economic growth in the city.

The Adelaide Economic Development Agency works closely with businesses, industry groups, the South Australian government and its agencies, and other relevant organisations to deliver a programmes designed to stimulate the city’s economic growth. The agency’s focus was on attracting investment, growing the city’s visitor economy and its residential populace. 

The agency was to market the city as a whole and promote Rundle Mall as Adelaide’s premier shopping destination. Adelaide Economic Development Agency was funded by the City of Adelaide from funds raised through the Rundle Mall differential separate rate declared by the city council on rateable land in the Rundle Mall Precinct. Funds from the separate rate would be spent only to support the delivery of the marketing plan, action and operation of Rundle Mall precinct and not the broader city.

The City of Adelaide recognised the importance of accelerating economic growth in the city, and as part of its 2020-2024 strategic plan, sought to design and put in place a new city-wide business model.  The Adelaide Economic Development Agency was led by the board (a chair and six members) managing its business and ensuring it acted in accord with the charter. The board’s skills base included expertise across hospitality, property development, place making, business development, investment, events and tourism.