Two projects will boost region’s economy

The State Government will invest $3.17M into two Central Coast projects with funding from the Government’s Regional Development Trust.

It is part of the Government’s plan to drive regional economic development and support job creation based on demonstrated need and merit for projects that are ready to go.

Together with co-contributions from the two successful applicants, the projects will inject a total of $5.88M into the Central Coast.

The investments will deliver a purpose-built training facility at the Central Coast Food Manufacturing Precinct and Innovation Hub at Ourimbah and upgrade the visitor experience at the Australian Reptile Park at Somersby.

The two projects will see the Central Coast benefit from business infrastructure that will drive further economic benefits.

The Australian Reptile Park will receive $2.54M to expand and upgrade the visitor experience by modernising facilities, improving accessibility and increasing the Park’s ability to cater for more international visitors.

The project will create local employment and strengthen the tourism industry across the region.

Central Coast Food Manufacturing Precinct and Innovation Hub will receive $629,280 to develop a state-of-the-art training facility to provide training and workforce development opportunities for businesses, students, and job seekers.

The project aims to tackle skills shortages, drive technology adoption, strengthen the talent pipeline, and boost the region’s manufacturing sector.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said upgrades at the Australian Reptile Park would drive a bigger number of international and domestic visitors to the Central Coast and ensure the iconic family attraction stays on tourist’s must do list when visiting the region.

“The Central Coast is a powerhouse for food manufacturing and building a new training facility in Ourimbah will support the industry’s longevity in the region, ensuring skills gaps are identified and filled, and exploring how new technologies can be used to increase productivity,” she said.

Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the Reptile Park brought in visitors from near and afar to learn about Australia’s native fauna.

“We know that visitors to the Reptile Park often go on to stay in our region, boosting our local economy and strengthening our regional tourism sector,” she said.

“The work of the Australian Reptile Park in conservation and venom research cannot be understated and I am thrilled that the Minns Labor Government is supporting their vital work.”

Member for The Entrance David Mehan said the funds were a welcome investment, which will not only create more local jobs but continue to drive economic growth in the region.

Australian Reptile Park CEO Liz Gabriel said the funding would allow the Park to transform the visitor experience, particularly for its growing international audience, while also delivering long-lasting benefits to the regional economy.

“It’s an exciting step forward that will ensure the Park continues to be a world-class attraction for years to come,” she said.

“When our main building was destroyed by fire in 2000, the team rebuilt quickly so we could be ready for the Sydney Olympics.

“That facility has served us incredibly well, but it was never designed with today’s international tourism market in mind.

“This investment gives us the opportunity to create a world-class entry precinct that truly reflects the Park’s standing as one of Australia’s premier attractions.”

Managing Director Tim Faulkner said the Park had been proudly connecting people with wildlife for decades.

“This expansion ensures we can keep pace with increasing demand, especially from international visitors to our region,” he said.

“By reducing wait times, improving accessibility, and creating new experiences, we’ll unlock fresh opportunities for tourism and deliver millions of dollars in economic growth to the region.

“The Australian Reptile Park is proud to have been recently recognised as Australia’s Best Large Tourist Attraction, and this grant represents another exciting step in our expansion.

“We will further develop our entry precinct, creating an enhanced and elevated welcome for all guests, including our valued international visitors.”

Central Coast Industry Connect Executive Director Frank Sammut said the Ourimbah project would see industry benefit from upskilled workers across modern manufacturing operations, helping businesses lift quality, safety, and productivity while accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies such as automation and robotics.

Project Manager Alex Blow said the project would be a game-changer for the region.

“It will give people the skills, confidence and industry connections they need, and in turn this investment will help businesses grow and build a stronger local economy and more prosperous community,” he said.

Investments from the Regional Development Trust are reviewed by the Regional Development Advisory Council, an independent body appointed by the Minister for Regional NSW to provide advice on investments and ensure the interests of regional communities are at the centre of government decision making.

Further announcements regarding other successful projects from the Regional Development Trust will be made in the coming months.

For more information, go to: nsw.gov.au/regionaldevelopmenttrust