Welcome new BEDAC Members!

Published on 04 March 2025

The City of Unley extends its appreciation to the outgoing members of the Business and Economic Development Advisory Committee (BEDAC) 2023-2025. The dedication, strategic insight, and commitment have played a vital role in shaping the future of Unley’s business community, driving economic growth, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the vibrancy of our city. 

Since its establishment in March 2023, BEDAC has been integral to the Economic Development Growth Strategy 2021-2025, fostering open communication and collaboration between businesses, local government, and community stakeholders. Through their efforts, BEDAC has achieved notable successes, including: 

• The completion of a Business Survey, 
• A Business-Friendly Deep Dive of Outdoor Dining and Development Applications, 
• Policy Reviews that make it easier to do business in the City of Unley, 
• Valuable data reporting on the state of the economy, business mix, vacancy rates, and spending trends, 
• Reviewing Business Precinct Expenditure Plans and supporting activation within our Business Precincts, 
• Inviting Business Precinct Leaders to present to the Committee annually and the establishment of the Business Precinct Leadership group that meets quarterly, 
• Instigating the Economic Development Policy and providing advice on policies that can support economic growth, 
• Progressed nearly all of the Economic Development Growth Strategy (2021 – 2025) 
• An Industry Sector Analysis with five focus groups, and  
• Launching the City of Unley Business Awards. 

We would like to express our gratitude to the outgoing BEDAC members: Arman Abrahimzadeh (Presiding Member), Garry Goddard, Kym Della-Torre, Joshua McNally, Nicole Sheehan, Alex Hammett, Councillor Stephen Finos and Councillor Don Palmer for their dedication in shaping economic growth strategies that benefit the entire Unley business community. 

With great enthusiasm, we welcome the new BEDAC members for 2025-2027: 

The new committee brings a wealth of expertise across diverse sectors. Strengths include urban renewal and major project development, venture capital, investment attraction, precinct development and leadership, business growth and entrepreneurship, visitor economy, market intelligence, and much more. As we embark on another year of progress, we look forward to fresh perspectives and expertise in guiding Unley’s economic future. BEDAC's role will be crucial in supporting business growth, fostering new industries, and identifying opportunities to attract investment to the area. 

The City of Unley is committed to working closely with the Committee to ensure our business community continues to thrive. Together, we will shape a strong and sustainable future that benefits businesses and residents alike.