Developing and Implementing a Smart Specialisation Approach for Gippsland, Victoria (2018-2020)

The GS3 academic Project Team from the University of Melbourne and RMIT University presents this report as an overview of the work and achievements undertaken since the Gippsland Smart Specialisation Strategy (GS3) initiative began in November 2017. It outlines: <br/>a) the thinking which has underpinned the approach adopted by the project, drawing on OECD research and European Union experience in implementing Smart Specialisation; b) the new ways of working developed in Gippsland during the project, with examples of specific case studies of projects initiated in this period; c) lessons learned about the achievements and learning from the approach adopted in Gippsland; and d) possible next steps to develop the capability for supporting innovation initiatives across sectors and throughout Gippsland. The Report documents the impact delivered in this first phase of implementing GS3, which has engaged over 3,000 people and organisations, and has laid the foundation for the longer-term development of the embryonic regional innovation system in Gippsland. Ongoing development of the Gippsland innovation system, building the dynamic partnerships emerging around food and fibre, energy, health and wellbeing, and the visitor economy, will be the key to achieving long-term viability for Gippsland in the uncertain and challenging Victorian, national and global environment that is unfolding currently.