The Mid-North Coast is perfectly placed to take full advantage of the federal Coalition’s jobs and investment package.
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Federal MP Luke Hartsuyker addressed mayors, council representatives and business leaders from across the Cowper electorate in Port Macquarie on Monday.
He outlined the objectives of the program and a briefing on how the area should identify and plan ahead.
The MP said the $25 million three year program provided competitive advantage to all areas of the electorate.
“Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour are two of the bigger regional centres and have access to larger labor forces while other areas could provide advantages such as cheaper land opportunities,” he said.
“This forum is about getting ahead of the game and preparing to work with councils and the business communities.
“The guidelines are coming out shortly and this region needs to get likely candidates together and be ready.
Mr Hartsuyker said grassroots local knowledge will be a vital part of the Coalition’s North Coast Jobs and Investment Package.
He said representatives from the electorate should work on identifying potential development projects in their individual areas.
“It may mean a council gets involved in building linear infrastructure to accommodate businesses moving to the area. It may mean a targeted skills training program driven by a particular chamber of commerce.
“It is about the regions putting forward the ideas and plans that suit their local area.”
Underpinning the program is the creation of sustainable job creation.
Mr Hartsuyker said he was reasonably confident the program would continue beyond the three year timeframe.
Representatives at the forum included Port Macquarie-Hastings Council mayor Peter Besseling, general manager Craig Swift-McNair, Kempsey Shire Council mayor Liz Campbell, Bellingen Shire Council mayor Mark Troy and Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce Hadyn Oriti, Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce president George Cecato and NSW Business Chamber regional manager Kellon Beard. The event also attracted other senior council executives from across the Mid-North Coast.
Other tiers of government will also be invited to contribute funds over-and-above the $25 million amount. Interested parties will be required to apply to the Department of Regional Development and make a business case.
The criteria and application process for the North Coast Jobs and Investment Package will be finalised in the next few months.
