The Chamber will be lobbying for several key economic opportunities for the Coffs Coast to increase visitation, jobs, and business sustainability.
A thriving business community = a thriving community. Interestingly to date the only candidate that has committed to and met with the Chamber has been Rob Oakeshott who met with President Martin Wells over 4 weeks ago to establish how best he could assist the business community and residents of the greater Coffs area.
Here are our 7 key points:
- Commitment and funding of Stage 2 Allied Health building at Southern Cross University (just $20m to exponentially improve the tertiary education available to our local school leavers, and to attract external students/families to the City).
- Further decentralisation of Federal departments to the Coffs Coast (recent announcement of 50 AMSA jobs is welcome however much more opportunity) to open up more job opportunities to locals.
- Extension of “fast-rail” network Northern corridor to terminate at Coffs Harbour (not Port Macquarie) to facilitate faster and more economical travel to the Coffs region for visitors and families
- Commitment to scuttle one of several naval vessels being de-commissioned off Coffs Harbour to supplement and grow the eco-tourism benefits our beautiful region has available. This would create a marine life sanctuary and dive site. This was 100% supported by every candidate at the State election including Greens, SFF, Nats, and independents.
- Commitment to work with Coffs Harbour City Council and the Chamber to create a City Deal that will enhance our region through transport, infrastructure, technology
- Commitment to extend the runway at Coffs Harbour Airport and dedicate Border Force and Quarantine staff to facilitate international status for local exports and inbound tourism/sporting events.
- Enhanced commitment to apprenticeship training, business tax off-sets and wage subsidies to generate more job opportunities for our local youth unemployment crisis.
Who will step up and be counted?
Who will deliver for the Coffs Coast?
Who will cut the spin and deliver realities?
Who will give Coffs Harbour the representation we require and deserve?
Time will tell but early signs are frankly disappointing bar one active candidate…
Ensure you are well informed and keep an eye out for our “meet the candidates” forum coming up in May.
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