Economic and community development through innovative local government

Research is reported in this article which examines the factors that contribute to an innovative culture in local government organisations. The entrepreneurial economic activities adopted by the Richmond River Shire Council, NSW in order to take responsibility for the future viability of the community are presented as a case study of an innovative culture in local government. Innovation strategies discussed include: the key role of creative individuals; responding to external pressure for change; encouraging experimentation and the search for new ideas; networking with other organisations; building on absorptive capacity; building innovative capacity; managing flexible organisation structures; and having a long-term community focus.