Economic and community development think tank the Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) has named Geelong one of its Top7 Intelligent Communities for the region’s Smart Cities efforts.
The announcement was made this week at the conclusion of the global network’s hybrid live-online conference based in Durham Region, Ontario, Canada.
Geelong is one of three debutantes on the Top7 list, which includes Queensland’s Sunshine Coast as well as communities in Brazil, Canada, Vietnam and the US.
The Top7 will be spruiked as “models of economic, social and cultural development in the digital age” at ICF’s October summit in New York City, where one of them will also be named the forum’s Intelligent Community of the Year.
The announcement has come in a year in which Geelong jumped 67 spots in the Global Innovation Cities index.
Mayor Trent Sullivan said the recognition was a result of a diverse series of projects delivered by a range of partners across the municipality.
“The City of Greater Geelong, other levels of government, the education sector and private enterprise are absolutely delighted by the news that our city-region is a Top7 Smart Community,” Mayor Sullivan said.
“Our submission highlighted 11 initiatives and projects that improve digital access, empower the community, reduce the effects of climate change, support active transport and protect native species.
“Our community should feel proud to chart a new path that drives innovation and social and economic prosperity.”
Acting CEO Kaarina Phyland said that the announcement reflected Geelong’s commitment to building a stronger and more equitable community for all.
“Greater Geelong continues to work towards the best outcomes in sustainability, digital inclusion, youth development, citizen engagement and world-class manufacturing through tech, data and innovation,” Ms Phyland said.
“After being a 2022 International Smart City of the Year alongside Barcelona City, this Smart21 Community of 2023 award again demonstrates that the City of Greater Geelong is a leader in this space.”
