IN an Australian first, Gawler Council will launch its own community ‘app’ this week to assist local business growth through innovation and customer engagement.

The Gawler Connected Community App provides users with a one-stop shop for multiple transactions and on-demand access to information about Gawler, including its latest news and events, and council services.

Mayor Karen Redman said the app also provides an online shop for local food outlets, retail businesses, professional services, accommodation and venue hire within Gawler.

“The Town of Gawler, being the first council to apply this technology, will improve economic development within the Gawler area and greater region, increase customer and community engagement and provide council with valuable information that will support its decision making for public facilities and business services,” she said.

“Users of the app also have the ability to build their own profile within the app, keep records of payments made through the app as well as any vouchers or stamp card loyalty programs that they have received from the businesses within the app.

“The app is a secure mobile service that allows customers to order and pay for items and services and receive offers and loyalty rewards, all from their mobile devices.”

Ms Redman said the app is one component of council’s ‘Connected Community Project’ that is being partly funded by the Australian Government’s Smart Cities and Suburbs Program. “Council was awarded funding in January 2019 and engaged Plutus Commerce to deliver the app and associated technology platform in April 2019,” she said.

“As the app has been developed from scratch, it has understandably taken the best part of 12 months to complete.

“It’s a positive way to transform local business while customers avoid queues, enjoy super-fast service and be rewarded in the process.”

The Gawler Connected Community App will be available as a free download from the App Store and Google Play from this Sunday, February 16.