Community Economic Development

Business Retention Expansion Survey

Through the Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Survey, the NSW Department of Trade and Investment provides communities with a means of gaining insight into local business communities’ needs, strengths, weaknesses and potential for growth.

The BRE Survey is a tool used in NSW and around the world to assist local businesses to survive and grow in the modern economy. Surveys can be targeted at a town, an industry or a Local Government Area. Communities can use the survey to collect and collate necessary business information to underpin strategies to improve the local economic environment. It is an effective mechanism for addressing important challenges confronting local communities including:

• overcoming problems and exploring opportunities sooner rather than later
• encouraging both whole communities and individual businesses to be more responsive to change
• making the local business environment more productive and attractive.

The survey can be used at any time in the economic cycle. While some communities have used the survey as part of a response to economic downturns or shocks, it is also relevant when the economy is healthy and/or growing as a means of 'taking the pulse' of local businesses and identifying what support can be provided to ensure that businesses can fully capitalise on opportunities.

The BRE Survey:

• improves understanding of the needs and perspectives of local businesses
• connects businesses to resources and assistance programs
• identifies and addresses immediate concerns of individual businesses
• develops strategies and actions that will support economic development and growth in local employment
• increases the competitiveness of local businesses
• provides community support for local business and improves profitability
• increases community enthusiasm and capacity to become involved in other initiatives.

To undertake a BRE Survey

We have prepared a BRE Survey Resource Kit to assist in determining if your community is ready for a BRE Survey and as a step-by-step guide if your community has decided to undertake the survey. It also includes checklists, tips and resource materials such a sample press release and letter to businesses.

Related Documents

• Business Retention and Expansion survey questionnaire 2007 [PDF File - 43.7 KB]
• Business Retention and Expansion Survey information kit [PDF File - 142.8 KB]