Business NSW Central Coast has praised a “fiscally responsible” Budget from the NSW Government, which it says is strong on housing, energy and regional NSW.
Business NSW Executive Director Regional NSW and Visitor Economy, Paula Martin, said the Budget predicted a much-needed surplus next year and delivered big on housing across the state – a key issue for business on the Central Coast.
“Across NSW there have been large investments in housing, regional NSW and the energy transition and the Central Coast will see significant investment in the projects that will drive local jobs,” she said.
“We are encouraged by the proactive measures outlined by the government to begin the work of solving the state’s housing crisis.
“Housing our local workers is one of the biggest challenges facing Central Coast business today so ensuring that the Central Coast gets its share of affordable housing targets will be key, as well as a pro-growth planning system.
“The NSW Government must be commended for following through on their promise to start the revitalisation of our CBD with $8.5M allocated for upgrades to the Gosford waterfront revitalisation plan.
“Gosford CBD can offer NSW a beautiful new waterfront precinct attracting new business investment and new industry.
“With the expansion of the 24-Hour Commissioner’s role to include Hunter, Central Coast and Illawarra, Gosford is well placed to realise its vision as a prime tourism destination.
“It is also good to see ongoing commitments to develop indigenous tourism including the Peat Island Cultural Tourism Precinct Activation and Darkinjung Mangrove Mountain Cultural Tourism Park.”
Martin said a commitment of no new business taxes allowed business to remain free to do what they did best – employ people, innovate, and grow the wealth of the state.
“Business – especially family-owned firms and SMEs – need support to keep delivering local jobs in the face of tough economic conditions,” she said.
“It is welcome news that the government expects to return … $844M surplus in 2024-25.
“It’s important the public sector wage rises, both now and in the future, must be linked to productivity across the economy.
“Looking to the next Budget, we need to keep NSW the number one state to start, own and run a business.”
Martin praised Central Coast specific measures announced in the Budget including: $200M for the Wyong Hospital Redevelopment Stage 1; $6.4M for Wyong Hospital’s Cancer Day Unit expansion; $4.9M to upgrade and deliver Animal Studies at Wyong TAFE; and $97M for the upgrade of the Pacific Highway through Wyong.
To read Business NSW’s budget analysis visit: https://www.businessnsw.com/members/2023-24-state-budget-analysis
Source:
Business NSW Central Coast