The Bill seeks to establish a framework for coordinating workforce transition, attracting new investment and supporting regional communities as the Hunter economy evolves.
Property Council Hunter Regional Director Stephen Crowe said the delay since the Bill was introduced to the Upper House in March was unacceptable given the scale of the Hunter’s contribution to the NSW economy.
“The Hunter is not just another region in the NSW economy – it is one of the engines that powers it.
“For generations, the Hunter has helped fund jobs, infrastructure and essential services across the state, and its future economic transition is far too important to be left in limbo.
“The region deserves clarity and certainty about the framework that will guide investment, workforce transition and future economic development.”
Mr Crowe said the Hunter was entering a pivotal period in its economic evolution and needed a coordinated strategy to attract new investment and unlock future employment opportunities.
“Mining will remain strong for the foreseeable future, but the next chapter of the Hunter economy will be driven by new investment, housing, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, clean energy industries and the repurposing of former mining and energy lands,” he said.
The Property Council has identified the transformation of mining and energy lands as one of the Hunter’s most significant economic development opportunities and has called for planning frameworks, infrastructure investment and government coordination to support the creation of future employment precincts across the region.
“The Hunter has a once-in-a-generation chance to transform former mining, power station and other energy assets into new centres of employment, investment and economic activity.
“Major investment decisions are made years in advance and investors are looking for clear signals about government policy, infrastructure planning and future employment opportunities.
“What matters now is making sure we have the policy settings, infrastructure planning and investment pathways in place to make that happen.”
Mr Crowe said all sides of politics should be focused on providing certainty for workers, communities and investors as the region prepares for its next phase of growth.
“The sooner Parliament’s Upper House resolves this debate, the sooner the region can focus on getting on with the task of building its next economic chapter,” Mr Crowe said.
