Economic Development Strategy

We’re developing a strategy to create new jobs, new investment and promote innovation in Newcastle

The release of our Discussion Paper is designed to create a conversation and critical consideration in order to inform a new economic plan for our city. More than ever, we've heard business and our community are concerned about future economic opportunities and want to be part of the solution. Establishing a new Economic Development Strategy (EDS) will allow us to make the most of tomorrow’s opportunities and support a resilient city. 

How can I join the discussion?

You're encouraged to have your say on how we can create the right environment for a stronger Newcastle economy. There are a number of ways to have your say:

•  Take our survey  
• Write to us - Submissions can be posted to Attn: Mr Simon Massey, City of Newcastle, 12 Stewart Avenue,
  Newcastle West 2300 or emailed to mail@ncc.nsw.gov.au
• You can also call us on (02) 4974 2000.

Our Discussion Paper engagement and survey closes 5pm on Sunday 6 December 2020. 

Please note: All submissions received may in whole or part be referred to within or attached to the formal report to Council. Please indicate in any written submissions if you approve for your name/organisation to be included or if you would prefer that your submission be de-identified.

EDS values

• People-centred – Programs will place people at the centre with outcomes to benefit the broad community.
• Future focused – Programs will push the boundaries, making Newcastle a place where we pilot, rework and try again; innovation is fundamental to everything that we do.
• Evidence-driven – Data-driven research will inform our programs. Newcastle will be the most researched and analysed Gateway City in the world; our stories and programs will be evaluated and understood, becoming models of success for replication across the world.

Key Newcastle statistics

• Almost 1 in 10 Novocastrians are unemployed
• 11,000+ people are on JobSeeker or Youth Allowance, almost 1 in 5 if you’re aged 18-25 years
• Women, people from Non-English speaking backgrounds, people living with disability and others experiencing social disadvantage (such as casualised employment conditions) have been disproportionately impacted.

Our response to the COVID-19 pandemic

CN recognises that locals have been impacted by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. To help address these impacts, we provided leadership through the creation and facilitation of a City Taskforce, which has brought together 17 key city leaders from across manufacturing, small business, tourism, transport and logistics, arts and culture, workers, education and community sectors to chart a path for community and economic recovery. We have also developed a comprehensive community and business support package designed to help the community and businesses through the effects of COVID-19.