Little progress to show at regional strategy meeting

The executive committee of the Central Coast Regional Economic Development and Employment Strategy (REDES) held its biannual meeting on Monday, August 17.

Key issues discussed included ensure jobs growth, create a learning culture and lift educational attainment in the region, increase knowledge development linked to key sectors and provide clarity on future delivery of land for employment.

CCREDES strives to create sustainable centres as major employment hubs, align future infrastructure development with future industry needs and population growth and build an economic identity for the Central Coast.

The CCREDES executive committee comprises of parliamentary secretary for the Central Coast, Mr Scott MacDonald MLC as chair, Wyong Council general manager, Gosford Council CEO and the chair of Regional Development Australia, Central Coast.

The meeting discussed outcomes that had resulted from collaboration between the group’s stakeholders including developing the 2014 Central Coast Infrastructure Priorities List. The list included the key infrastructure needs required to grow investment and employment on the Central Coast.

A Gosford Council application resulted in $10 million received from round one of the National Stronger Regions Funding for the major upgrade to the Somersby Industry Park.

“This regional infrastructure project is expected to create more than 3,000 new jobs for the Central Coast and a $267 million boost to the local economy,” said Mr Phil Walker, chair of Regional Development Australia, Central Coast.

“Two smart work hubs have been established in the region with the assistance of the NSW Government. “The region hosted ‘The Elephant in the Room 2015 National Aged Care Conference’ at the Crowne Plaza Terrigal.

“This conference aimed to foster industry collaboration, celebrate local innovation and inspire regional solutions that will ensure the Central Coast has quality aged care services now and well into the future.

“What we are witnessing is a clear example of how state, federal and local governments are all working together for the benefi t of the Central Coast,” Mr Walker said.

Media release,
17 August 2015
John Mouland, Regional
Development Australia
Central Coast