The Sunshine Coast has been honoured as one of the Top7 Intelligent Communities of 2019, sharing the global spotlight with communities from Canada, Taiwan and the US.
The announcement was made last February by the Intelligent Community Forum (ICF) in Quebec, Canada.
The ICF acknowledges those communities which exemplify best practices in broadband deployment and use, workforce development, innovation, digital inclusion, sustainability and advocacy.
The only Australian city being named at this elite level, the Sunshine Coast is now a contender for the prestigious Intelligent Community of the Year title to be announced at New York in June.
Mayor Mark Jamieson said the Top7 was a significant achievement for the entire community.
He said it was a testament to Council’s investment in game-changer projects such as the International Broadband Submarine Network and a 15mw solar farm, but also many other initiatives.
“A long-term strategy delivered in true partnership with community, education and industry leaders over many years demonstrates that collaboration is critical for success,” Mayor Jamieson said.
“These awards, backed by the robust judging criteria, demonstrate the depth of commitment and passion we all have for this region and our healthy, smart and creative vision.”
The international Intelligent Community Forum awards program evaluated hundreds of communities from across the world.
The Top7 announcement follows the Sunshine Coast’s inclusion as a Smart21 Intelligent Community of 2019, representing the best models of economic, social and cultural development in the digital age.