SYDNEY’S CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 2024 25
Learn more at hccdc.nsw.gov.au Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation We unlock, deliver and revitalise. We deliver significant projects to stimulate the economy, generate employment and create vibrant public spaces.
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 1 Sydney’s Central Coast – a snapshot Top reasons to invest or relocate to the Central Coast Sydney’s Central Coast is just over an hour north of Sydney CBD with an estimated population of 351,934 as of June 2023 and growing at the rate of 0.5% per annum in recent years. Located on the shores of the expansive Brisbane Water, Gosford is the Capital City of the Central Coast and identi ed as a Metropolitan city in the NSW Government’s Central Coast Regional Plan 2041. Over the past ve years Gosford has seen unprecedented residential investment along with substantial investment in a new Gosford Hospital and University of Newcastle campus. As part of these developments the NSW Government has classi ed Gosford as an Employment and Education Precinct. Tuggerah, at the geographic centre of the region, has been identi ed as a Regional city. Located in close proximity to Wyong town centre Tuggerah forms part of the Tuggerah to Wyong Growth Corridor. Central Coast Council’s administration o ces are located at Wyong. Gosford and Tuggerah are connected to Sydney via a fast electric train service and the M1 Paci c Motorway . The working population in 2022 was 132,937 of which approximately 40,000 residents commute into Sydney each day for work. Best known for its relaxed lifestyle the Central Coast is embarking on a new era that will see a resurgence of investment as property developers and businesses looking to escape the congestion of Sydney create exciting new opportunities for those wishing to live and work within the region. Workforce A large, adaptable and enthusiastic skilled and unskilled workforce Around 40,000 commuters Fast growing region Population of 351,934 – Estimated June 2023 Location – on Sydney’s doorstep 70 minutes to Sydney CBD – 80 minutes to Port Botany and Sydney International Airport Well-developed infrastructure Including bre to the premises connection to National Broadband Network The economy • Gross Regional Product June 2023 - $19,793 million +3.94% on 2022 • Employment – 2023 - 140,478 • Population – Estimated 2023 – 351,934 • Local businesses - June 203 – 26,266 • Commuters – about 40,000 • Largest employing sectors – Health Care and Social Assistance, Retail, Construction and Manufacturing Lifestyle An ideal family lifestyle with excellent school and health facilities in a pristine environment unattainable in the city Business costs Low business costs in respect to land, occupancy, labour costs and high productivity Gosford waterfront and CBD looking north Photo courtesy Chosen Photography
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 2 Sydney’s Central Coast – a snapshot Manufacturing and food processing Over 1,000 manufacturing businesses operate throughout the region which accounts for a diverse range of products and employs around 9,000 people. Over fty food manufacturing and processing companies, including well known international brands, are located in the region. Construction The construction sector and the trade and professional services that it supports is a major contributor to the regional economy. The construction sector is the largest non-government employer on the Central Coast. Numerous building companies from large to small are engaged in residential home building in the region and beyond. Commercial and industrial builders are based in the region and undertake work locally and elsewhere. Distribution, Transport and Logistics The Central Coast is an excellent location for logistics operations being close to Port Botany and Sydney International Airport as well as being centrally located within about two hours driving time, north and south, of a population of around 7.7 million people. Innovation and Technology The Central Coast is a thriving technology literate region. A growing number of technology and ICT companies are established in the region with the result that a Technology / ICT Cluster is being seen as the genesis for a new industry taking advantage of the NBN broadband network throughout the region. Contact Centres With occupancy costs much lower than in capital cities and an extensive skilled workforce with sta turnover among the lowest in NSW, the Central Coast o ers an ideal environment for Call Centres. Aged Care and Retirement Living A preferred retirement destination for seniors has created a growing demand for retirement accommodation and, in particular, for resident-funded, self-care retirement villages. Corporate neighbours While the region is home to many small and medium businesses major national and international corporations that are located on the Central Coast include: Sector Businesses MANUFACTURERS Baltimore Aircoil Australia*, Borg Manufacturing, FMC*, Chamberlain Australia*, CSR Hebel, Donaldson Australia*, Paci c Labels*, Thermit Australia, Interpod FOOD MANUFACTURING Agrana Fruit Australia*, The Cordina Food Co., Inghams Enterprises, McCain Foods*, Mars Food Australia*, Sara Lee, Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing, Tip Top Bakeries LOGISTICS Carter Hold Harvey*, Hachette Australia*, Pure Fishing, Scholastic*, Woolworths Distribution Centre, Amazon Australia Distribution Centre INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY Star Scienti c, OneBlink LcS, Mirait Technologies Australia*, Servers Australia, Sterland Computing, 4B Media, Envisage Software Solutions, ClockOn Australia PROFESSIONAL SERVICES ACOR Consultants, Northrop Consulting Engineers, Jamieson Group CONTACT CENTRES APIA, Centrelink, ING Direct*, Long Service Leave Corporation, NRMA, Police Assistance Line, Qantas * Global corporation KEY BUSINESS SECTORS
NEWCAS T L E S YDNE Y CENT RAL COAS T AUS T RAL I A GOSFORD TUGGERAH 1 HOUR FROM S YDNE Y Contents 5 Message from the Mayor Lawrie McKinna 6 Community Pro le 7 About the Central Coast 8 Who’s Investing 10 Opportunities 13 Key Industries 16 Where to Invest – Business Centres 23 Where to invest – Industrial Areas 27 Workforce 27 Access to Markets – Logistics 28 Education and Training 29 Infrastructure and Utilities 30 Lifestyle
THE FUTURE OF EDUCATION ON THE CENTRAL COAST The University of Newcastle has been committed to the Central Coast for more than 30 years. The next stage of our partnership is our new Central Coast Campus in the heart of Gosford that will activate the Central Coast Education and Employment Precinct and stimulate the ongoing revitalisation of the Gosford CBD. The Central Coast Campus is jointly funded by the Australian Government, NSW Government and University of Newcastle to realise our shared vision for this important project for the Central Coast and our University. We look forward to continuing working with business – the Chamber of Commerce and Business NSW – our partners the Local Health District, with TAFE NSW and Central Coast Council to open this new chapter for the Coast. 15856b I CRICOS Provider 00109J
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 5 The Central Coast is a region of enormous economic and social potential for long-term growth and development. A destination of choice for coastal and hinterland tourism, we are also a powerhouse for major sporting events, elite sports pathways, premier health and medical research, advanced education and training and growing retail and commercial services. Our Council is committed to supporting business and industry to invest in our region and create local jobs and opportunities for our community. We are working hard to streamline approval processes to encourage business owners to relocate, start, or grow their business on the Central Coast. Major plans are underway for Gosford, our fastgrowing major centre fronting the beautiful Brisbane Waters, that will be a major boost for liveability and economic growth. Following early master planning work by Council, the NSW Government has appointed the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC) to now develop a business case that will deliver a region-shaping outcome for the Gosford Waterfront. I’m excited by this partnership that recognises Gosford as a strategic site for development and transformation, attracting investment and innovation, creating vibrant places to live and work, and supporting the jobs of the future. I’m incredibly proud of Council’s new Gosford Regional Library and innovation hub – a project currently underway that will invigorate the town centre by delivering a collaborative four-level community place with smart work hubs, meeting rooms, recording studios and exhibition spaces alongside much-loved library services by mid-2025. Our regional library project, along with the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Clinical School at Gosford Hospital, the impending arrival of their brand-new Central Coast Campus in the heart of the city and the proposed expansion of Gosford TAFE, will create a world-class education, skills training and innovation precinct. Council is committed to shaping a stronger business community we’ve recently launched our inaugural Business Retention and Expansion Survey. Designed to gather vital insights from local businesses across the coast, the survey will play a crucial role in helping us shape initiatives that support economic growth. More and more people are choosing the Central Coast as a place to live, work and raise a family as the region grows. O ering unparalleled lifestyle options, from pristine coastal waterfront, family-friendly communities and lush hinterland acreages, the Central Coast is fast becoming the place to be. I encourage you to consider the advantages the Central Coast has to o er and join us as we grow from strength to strength. Message from Mayor Lawrie McKinna
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 6 Community profile Population growth In recent years population growth has been at about 0.5% per annum. Over the past 10 years, the Central Coast’s population has grown from 327,745 in 2013 to an estimated population of 351,934 as of June 2023. Age groups In terms of age groups 21.6% of the population are aged 0-17 years, 49.7% are aged 18-59 years and over 60s make up 28.7% of the population compared with NSW 27.1%. Household type Of the 138,173 households in 2021 household types were: • Couples with children 37,479 27.1% • Couples without children 35,678 25.8% • One parent families 17,621 12.8% • Group households 3,845 2.8% • Lone Person 35,863 26.0% • Others 7,687 5.5% Income On the Central Coast the median weekly household income in 2021 was $1,534 compared with $1,849 for NSW. Those earning more than $2,000 per week accounted for 9.7% of the working age population (15+) while 33.5% earned less than $500 per week. Housing tenure Of the 138,170 households, 46,044 were fully owned, and 45,024 were being bought. The median weekly mortgage repayment was $461 per week compared with $1,849 for NSW Central Coast NSW Population 2023 (est.) 351,934 8,342,285 Median age 43 39 Median weekly household income $1,534 $1,849 Median weekly mortgage repayment $461 $500 Median weekly rent $400 $420 Age structure (2021 Census) % of population 0 – 17 21.6 22.2 18 - 59 49.7 50.7 60 + 28.7 27.1 Source: NIEIR and economy.id ECONOMIC PROFILE Gross Regional Product For the 2022/23 Financial Year Gross Regional Product on the Central Coast was $19,793 million. In the years 2001 to 2015 GRP atlined at just under $15,000 million and, except for 2020, has been steadily rising to $19,793% Local employment In the year ending June 2023 there were 140,478 jobs located on the Central Coast Job growth has increased in the last ten years from 112,617 jobs in 2013 to 140,478 in 2023 an increase over the period of 24.7% Employment composition The Household services sector accounted for 43.1% of employment on the Central Coast increasing from 40.5% in the last 10 years. Employment by sector was: Agriculture, forestry and shing 1,558 1.1% Mining 610 0.4% Goods related 52,827 37.6% Household services 60,586 43.1% Business services 17,983 12.8% Public administration 6,915 4.9% Employment by industry sector Apart from government sectors the Construction and Manufacturing sectors are signi cant contributing sectors to the regional economy. Full-time equivalent employment by sector 2022/23 Agriculture, Forestry & Fishing 1,449 1.3% Mining 623 0.6% Manufacturing 8,029 7.3% Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Svc 1,279 1.2% Construction 16,476 15.0% Wholesale Trade 2,447 2.2% Retail Trade 10,918 9.9% Accommodation & Food Services 7,019 6.4% Transport, Postal & Warehousing 4,342 3.9% Information Media & Telecommunication 1,225 1.1% Financial & Insurance Services 2,554 2.3% Rental, Hiring & Real Estate Services 1,757 1.6% Professional, Scienti c & Technical Svc 6,252 5.7% Administrative & Support Services 3,127 2.8% Public Administration & Safety 5,873 5.3% Education & Training 9,159 8.3% Health & Social Assistance 22,249 20.2% Arts & Recreation Services 1,044 0.9% Other Services 4,310 3.9% TOTAL INDUSTRIES 110,131 100.0% Registered businesses In 2023 there were 26,266 registered businesses on the Central Coast. Of this number 7,496 registered businesses were from the Construction and Manufacturing sector making up 28.6% of the total.
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 7 About the Central Coast LOCATION The Central Coast is an hour north of Sydney CBD and is located halfway between Sydney and Newcastle (the largest regional city in NSW) putting it at the centre of a population of around six million people. AREA The Central Coast encompasses a total area of 1,680 square kilometres including more than 80 kilometres of coastline. Around 70% of this area comprises national parks, state forest, bushland, agricultural land and waterways. GOVERNMENT The region is governed by the Central Coast Council the second largest Local Government Area is the in NSW. Gosford City is the capital of the region and is seeing unprecedented growth and investment from government and the private sector. POPULATION With an estimated population in June 2022 of 348,930 the Central Coast over the past ve years has grown at the rate of 0.5% per year. About 30% of the working population commute to work in Sydney each day. Of those who live and work within the region the largest employing sector is Health Care and Assistance followed by Education and Training and in the private sector Retail, Construction and Manufacturing. Brisbane Water on the Central Coast ECONOMY In 2021-22 the region’s Gross Regional Product was $17,516 million growing by 2.7% since the previous year. There were 25,800 registered local businesses based in the region in 2022 employing 133,945 people. Unemployment in 2022 was 3.3%, the lowest level for more than ten years. The largest employing sectors are: Health Care and Social Assistance, Retail, Construction and Manufacturing. LIVEABILITY The Central Coast is known for its quality of life that starts with lower residential living costs than in Sydney, the opportunity to live close to the beach, in a rural setting or in suburbia, highly regarded education facilities, exceptional health care services and the opportunity to participate in almost any recreational or sporting activity. INVESTORS The Central Coast is undergoing a resurgence of investment as property developers and businesses take advantage of the opportunities led by strong government infrastructure development. This follows almost ten years of government investment in hospitals, roads, schools and other infrastructure.
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 8 ALAND Sydney trusted property developer ALAND is developing a 5,656 sqm site in the Gosford CBD to be known as Archibald by ALAND with two 28-storey towers that will comprise 327 apartments, roof-top sky bar and 130-room voco® 5-star hotel. Representing an investment of $375 million this project will set the stage for the transformation of Gosford. Construction commenced in early 2023 with completion planned for early 2025. Alceon Group ALCEON Group, one of Australia’s leading privately-owned nancier and investment companies with extensive experience in real estate development, in partnership with builders Deicorp commenced construction on one of the largest luxury residential developments to be undertaken on the Central Coast in Gosford in early 2023. To be known as Rumbalara and built on the highest point in Gosford overlooking Brisbane Water the development is a masterplanned resort style development on a 2.3ha site that will comprise four buildings ranging in size from 6 to 12 storeys with 260 apartments and 400 space basement car park around a garden and pool setting designed by architects Marchese Partners. In recent years the Central Coast has experienced unprecedented investment with residential property developers active in Gosford in particular. These include some of the largest and most reputable property developers in NSW: ALAND, Alceon Group, Urban Property Group, each of which have major projects under construction with completion due in Q1 2025. In total these three projects represent over a billion dollars in investment and will see about 900 new apartments plus a 5-star voco® hotel in the Gosford CBD. Additionally, the University of Newcastle has commenced construction of a new $63.8 million campus in the CBD adding to their already substantial investment in the city. Urban Property Group Architect’s image Central Coast Quarter Precinct In May 2024 Urban Property Group acquired Central Coast Quarter Gosford, a signi cant residential development site with Stage 1 of 25-storey mixed-use building under construction from St Hilliers. Central Coast Quarter comprises a 4,600sqm site that will be developed in stages. Stage 1, The Waterfront, is made up of 334 apartments and 2,800sqm of retail and food and beverage precinct with end value in excess of $350 million. Completion is scheduled for late -2025. University of Newcastle Architect’s render of proposed University of Newcastle Gosford Campus The University of Newcastle is constructing a new Gosford Campus with a planned opening in 2025. The 5-level Campus building will be built on a 4,672 sqm site on the corner of Mann and Beane Streets, Gosford with a footprint of 4,200 sqm. “This building will set an example for building design and sustainability, with a World Leading 6 Green Star rating, a rating usually reserved for highly e cient buildings fully powered by renewables,” he said. The new Campus will o er programmes covering business studies, law and cyber security, Prof. Zelinsky said, with student numbers reaching 900 within a decade With UON’s Central Coast Clinical School and Research institute adjoining Gosford Hospital now fully operational and with a new Gosford Campus coming along, Prof. Zelinsky announced what he sees as a next step in his vision for Gosford – an Integrated Innovation Network for the region’s most promising innovators and entrepreneurs. Image Archibald by ALAND Who’s Investing
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 9 John Singleton Group Image of John Singleton Group’s proposed 60-room motel at East Gosford The John Singleton Group has identi ed opportunities and in recent years has invested in residential, o ce, and hospitality developments and ventures. These include $35 million Bonython Tower and Railway Hotel in Gosford and 40 luxury apartments in the Ravello Residences development on the Gosford Waterfront. In 2019 he acquired the Elanora Hotel in East Gosford and carried out substantial renovations. In January 2024 JCG submitted a Development Application for a 3-storey 60 room motel to cost $32 million on a site adjacent to the hotel. The Group has approval for a 20-room luxury hotel adjacent to their Saddles Restaurant at Mount White near Gosford. JSG and property developer Alceon have announced a joint venture to build 16 luxury residences on a waterfront site at Caroline Bay near Gosford. Chamberlain Australia Chamberlain Australia is expanding it’s operations into a brand new purpose built state of the art facility at Somersby on a 19,000 square meter site designed and built by BORG companies, Space Urban and Crossmuller. This new facility to house their Grifco subsidiary combines four sites into one and will combine the company’s manufacturing operations, national warehouse and international engineering team. The expansion will allow Chamberlain to design a product range for a global market and execute their growth plans for many decades to come. Gosford RSL Club In early 2024 the Gosford RSL Club opened a new $32 million club building highlighting its position at the Gateway to Gosford. The new building, with a capacity for up to 1,000 patrons, on the site of the former club building, features a range of dining options, craft brewery, sports bar, billiard room, recreation spaces and state-of-the-art conference facilities for up to 450 banquet style and 700 theatre style gatherings. Space Urban (Borg) Space Urban (a Borg company), are specialists in design, property development, environmental planning and approvals, and property management. The establishment of Space Urban demonstrates the next chapter, in a continuum of growth for the BORG Group, as they deliver a diversi ed and consistent revenue stream to bolster the Group. Being a Borg company, Space Urban also comes with the advantage of being backed by 30 years of Australian-owned and operated businesses across a diverse range of capabilities. Space Urban was founded to manage and optimise the freehold property portfolio across the nation. Space Urban’s Central Coast portfolio comprises seven industrial sites at Somersby ranging in size from 2.0 Ha to 4.8 Ha, four with current development approvals thereon ready for development and four sites at Doyalson. Mingara Leisure Group Mingara Leisure Group has announced plans to build a 82-room hotel adjacent to its club facility at Tumbi Umbi representing an investment of $21 million. The Mingara hotel will feature 82 rooms over ve oors and will provide easy access to all club facilities for guests staying there. Mingara Leisure Group will open a 82-room hotel adjacent to its club facility at Tumbi Umbi in December 2024 representing an investment of $21 million. Meanwhile Mingara has completed the redevelopment of The Greens The Entrance club investing $20 million in a new club house with lounge and sports bar and two undercover bowling≈greens. Woolworths Limited Supermarket giant Woolworths Limited announced a major expansion of the Warnervale Distribution Centre built in 2005, with a $67.7 million investment in alterations and additions to the present facility
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 10 Opportunities The Central Coast is full of opportunities for businesses looking to relocate or establish their operations as well as for investors. Those that o er the most are: HEALTH EDUCATION AND INNOVATION ADVANCED MANUFACTURING DIGITAL BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL AND CONSULTING SERVICES GOSFORD HEALTH EDUCATION AND INNVOVATION PRECINCT Gosford CBD is undergoing a transformation that is seeing it become a Health Education and Innovation Precinct with attendant opportunities for research, innovation and higher education. This follows the NSW Government’s $350 million redevelopment of Gosford Hospital in 2019 that was the catalyst for the University of Newcastle to co-locate and invest $72.5 million in a Clinical School and Research Institute adjacent to the hospital. Gosford CBD Building on the foundations of Gosford Hospital and well established medical and health support services around it, a comprehensive range of doctors, medical specialists and medical and health services have located within the CBD over many years. Additionally, Gosford CBD and surrounding areas o er access to high speed broadband connection with symmetrical download and upload speeds, allowing for seamless data transfers, video conferencing, and cloud-based applications. Opportunities exist within the Gosford CBD for allied health and medical professionals to leverage o an established network of innovative support services. Additionally, opportunities exist for companies in the Med-Tech sector to take advantage of the research capabilities o ered by the University of Newcastle. Gosford Hospital Gosford Hospital is the principal referral hospital and regional trauma centre for the Central Coast serving a population of around 350,000. Gosford Hospital was redeveloped and a new $348 million hospital opened in 2018 delivering next-generation health care to the Central Coast. This included a new nuclear medicine service, and Cancer Clinic University of Newcastle Central Coast Clinical School Adjoining Gosford Hospital the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Clinical School is a nation-leading health, medicine and wellbeing teaching and education facility, operating alongside the Central Coast Research Institute. Opened in 2021, these facilities focus on integrated healthcare, medical education, research and innovation in addressing the health needs of the local population. The Clinical School supports the University’s links with the local health sector through a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach. In partnership with the Central Coast Local Health District, the Clinical School graduates medical, nursing and allied health practitioners who have trained in real hospital settings, alongside leading clinical practitioners and medical experts. Some 700 students are enrolled at the Clinical School across Nursing, Midwifery and Medical programs. Gosford Hospital and University of Newcastle Clinical School and Research Institute form the centrepiece of the Gosford Health Education and Innovation Precinct. Photo courtesy Chosen Photography
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 11 Central Coast Research Institute for Integrated Care Additionally, the Central Coast Research Institute for Integrated Care (CCRI) is a joint venture of the University of Newcastle (UON) and Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD). The purpose of the CCRI is to deliver translational research outcomes relevant to improving the health and wellbeing of the Central Coast community and beyond through development and evaluation of new models of person-centred integrated care. Central Coast Local Health District Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) is responsible for the total management of Gosford, Wyong and Woy Woy public hospitals, healthcare centres across the region. CCLHD employs a workforce of 8,000 people or 5,950 FTE. Signi cantly their workforce retention rate for 2023-24 was 90.6% Other opportunities in a health and education precinct is Clinical Trials. Clinical trials feature in most of the Sydney precincts and would provide the Central Coast community with greater access to clinical trials, Gosford Private Hospital While not in the Gosford CBD, only a few minutes away is Gosford Private Hospital operated by Healthe Care. Established some 40 years ago this hospital in late 2021 completed a $32 million expansion. Gosford Private employs a sta of 700 health and administrative personnel. Within this precinct and adjacent to the hospital is Jarrett Street Specialist Centre, North Gosford Medical Centre and the Gosford Private Consulting Suites. ADVANCED MANUFACTURING Caption: Chamberlain Group robot carrying out post-processing gauging. Many Central Coast manufacturers have embraced the latest technologies in their manufacturing process. The Central Coast is home to over 1,000 manufacturers across diverse sectors from small to large successfully competing in the national and global marketplace. These businesses employ some 9,000 people. Major employment sectors are: Pharmaceuticals, Cleaning products, Fabricated and structural metal products, Relocatable homes, Furniture, Building products including kitchens, frames and trusses, windows and doors, modular bathrooms, concrete panels and pipes, Mining Equipment, Precision machining, Filtration products, Industrial and agricultural chemicals, Packaging and Paper products. While most are locally owned businesses there is a core of national and foreign owned companies based in the region. Many have embraced Advanced Manufacturing technologies to improve their products and processes. Manufacturers on the Central Coast are supported by a strong support and networking organisation, Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC). CCIC focuses on specialisations in Advanced Manufacturing, Food and Beverage production and the circular economy with the goal to make the Central Coast a Centre of Innovation Excellence across the spectrum. The region’s manufacturing story is one of innovation with manufacturers from small to large embracing new technologies to produce more complex and higher valueadded products. FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANUFACTURING The Central Coast is located at the centre of a population of around 5.5 million people o ering food and beverage manufacturers a cost-e ective distribution for their products. For this reason, more than forty food and beverage manufacturing and processing companies operate across the region the largest being Sanitarium, Mars Food, Sara Lee, The Cordina Food Co and Hawkesbury Brewing Company. Products vary from poultry processing to brewing and bakery products. The industry is supported by the Central Coast Food Alliance, a cluster under CCIC. This Alliance was established to foster the development of a thriving food, agriculture and beverage industry that contributes to the social and economic development of the Central Coast region. The food industry is also supported by the University of Newcastle (UON) which o ers a Food Science & Human Nutrition Degree through the Faculty of Science at their Central Coast Campus and dedicated food laboratory facilities. DIGITAL BUSINESS Gosford CBD and surrounding areas o er access to high speed broadband connection with symmetrical download and upload speeds, allowing for seamless data transfers, video conferencing, and cloud-based applications. Additionally, the Nexus Business Hub at North Wyong is colocated with an onsite data centre that provides redundancy and 10 gigabytes connectivity. The introduction of high-speed broadband in the region has spawned a growing number of online businesses and software developers. They include: 4B Media, OneBlink LcS, Personalised Favours, Bohemian Traders, Envisage Software Solutions, ClockOn.
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 12 Opportunities PROFESSIONAL AND CONSULTING SERVICES The Central Coast is the ideal location for professional, consulting and service businesses to base their operations. Firstly, it’s about productivity – Central Coast residents are renowned for their strong work ethic. This is based on a work/ life balance where lifestyle and closeness to work creates a positive mental outlook leading to increased motivation. Secondly, being a little over one hour from the Greater Sydney area with quick and easy access to the CBD via rail and expressway provides considerable time savings for the busy executive. Similarly, Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport is a little over an hour by rail or road. Thirdly, occupancy costs for o ce space across the region is substantially below that in the city or suburbs. The introduction of high-speed broadband has enabled many companies to operate highly successful businesses on the Central Coast. Foreign companies with Australian Head Office on Central Coast MIRAIT Technologies Australia MIRAIT Technologies Australia is a national telecommunications, ICT and energy infrastructure construction and maintenance provider with head o ce at Tuggerah on the Central Coast. MIRAIT Technologies Australia is a division of the MIRAIT Group (Japan) with a workforce of over 1,200 employees and subcontractors. Kress Kress is a German based global power equipment manufacturer of a range of hi-tech innovative electric power and garden tools. Kress entered the Australian market in 2023 appointing dealers across the country. Their Australian Headquarters are at Erina on the Central Coast. Architecture | Planning | Interiors www.ckds.com.au ARCHITECTS O F EXCELLENCE
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 13 Key Industries Advanced Manufacturing Chamberlain Group’s new 19,000sqm Grifco manufacturing facility at Somersby In 2023 there were 994 registered manufacturing businesses operating in the sector while in 2021/22 total value add of the manufacturing sector was $1,270.8 million and the total number of people employed was 7,752. While most are locally owned businesses there is a core of national and foreign owned companies based in the region. Many have embraced Advanced Manufacturing technologies to improve their products and processes to give them a competitive edge. Manufacturers on the Central Coast are supported by a strong networking organisation, Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC). CCIC focuses on specialisations in Advanced Manufacturing, Food and Beverage production and the circular economy with the goal to make the Central Coast a Centre of Innovation Excellence across the spectrum. One of the largest manufacturers in the region is BORG, a family owned vertically integrated company that has embraced innovation and advanced manufacturing making it one of Australia’s leading manufacturers. Other leading manufacturers include: Chamberlain Group, Pro Ali Design, TrendPac, Baltimore Aircoil (Australia), Hebel, , Donaldson Australasia, Parkwood Modular Homes, Parchem, Interpod Modular Bathrooms, Paci c Labels and FMC Food processing The Central Coast is home to over 50 food manufacturing and processing companies from large to small. In 2022/23 the total value add of the food and beverage subsector was $365 million. In addition, the region’s hinterland is well known for its agricultural and horticultural products, particularly poultry, fruit and vegetables. Major food companies include: Mars Food Australia, Sanitarium Health and Wellbeing, Sara Lee, Inghams Enterprises (Chickadee further processed chicken facility), Agrana Fruit Australia, The Cordina Food Co. (further processed chicken facility), Tip Top Bakeries, Hawkesbury Brewing Co. Central Coast Food Manufacturing and Innovation Hub The establishment of the Central Coast Food Manufacturing and Innovation Hub was announced in the October 2022 Federal Budget as an initiative of Central Coast Industry Connect to make the Central Coast “a Food Manufacturing Destination”. Central Coast Council has provided land for the hub at Ourimbah in close proximately to the Ourimbah campus of the University of Newcastle. Project planning is underway with an expected opening of the hub to be mid 2026. University of Newcastle The Faculty of Science at the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast Campus at Ourimbah has strong links with the food industry. Their food science laboratory is aimed at supporting the region’s food industry. Agriculture Family Fresh Farms Peats Ridge 2.5Ha glasshouse cucumber growing facility To the west of the M1 Paci c Motorway is a signi cant rural area that supports an agriculture industry with production in 2022/23 valued at $244.9 million. The agriculture sector includes: Chicken growing, cut owers, fruit and vegetables. The Central Coast Plateau area is a major chicken meat production area being close to the Sydney market. Chicken production in 2020/21 was valued at $67 million. Cut ower production on the Central Coast in 20-20/21 was valued at $39.2 million and citrus fruit and vegetable production at $9.2 million. Australian entrepreneur Gerry Harvey in 2019 established Family Fresh Farms at Peats Ridge investing $25 million in two new 2.5 Ha hi-tech glasshouses and packaging lines growing some 100 million Qukes® baby cucumbers annually for the major supermarkets. Central Coast Primary Industries Centre (CCPIC The Central Coast Primary Industries Centre (CCPIC) is NSW Department of Primary Industries’ Centre of Excellence for Market Access and Greenhouse Horticulture. The site is co-located with the Ourimbah Campus of the University of Newcastle with a further 78 hectares at the Somersby Field station. The manufacturing sector on the Central Coast accounts for a diverse range of products from food processing and metal and allied metal products to wood products that make up a signi cant part of the region’s manufacturing industries.
INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF THE CENTRAL COAST • Fountain Plaza Erina • Element Erina • Platinum Erina • Fountain Corporate • Erina Plaza • Park Plaza, Gosford • Lisarow Plaza • Service NSW Erina CONTACT Nicole Barr – 0418 230044 e: nicole@commercialhq.com.au Office: 4365 4566 www.commercialhq.com.au
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 15 Key Industries CCPIC is a research institute with world-class, purpose-built laboratories and a greenhouses complex which support R&D of NSW Agriculture and Biosecurity & Food Safety. The Institute develops and implements science-based technologies and production systems for horticultural crops. Many research and development opportunities exist to maintain horticulture as Australia’s fastest growing primary industry. These include enhancing export market access, developing new export supply chain opportunities, mitigating food safety risks, developing innovative products, reducing industry reliance on pesticides and improving environmental performance. Distribution, Transport and Logistics The Central Coast is an excellent location for logistics operations. It is one of the very few locations in Australia providing optimum cost bene ts in terms of market access and distribution due to its proximity to two of the state’s largest markets – Sydney and Newcastle. The region also has the added advantage of being centrally located within about 2 hours driving time of a population of around 7.7 million people. In addition, the Central Coast is halfway between Brisbane and Melbourne, around 950 kms which is approximately 10 to 11 hours truck driving time putting it within the legal driving limit of twelve hours. National and global companies that have based their distribution operations on the Central Coast include: Hatchette Australia, Husqvarna Australia, Pure Fishing Australia, Scholastic Australia, Woolworths Distribution Centre. Transport companies based in the region are: Coastal Transport Services, Linfox Transport., TNT Central Coast Terminal, Star Track Express Central Coast Terminal, Toll IPEC, Border Express and FreightLinx Contact Centres The Central Coast o ers an ideal environment for Call Centres with occupancy costs much lower than in capital cities and an extensive skilled workforce where sta turnover is amongst the lowest in NSW. Contact centres operating on the Central Coast include: ING DIRECT, Department of Human Services – CentreLink, SafeWork NSW, Police Assistance Line, APIA, NRMA Membership Services and NRMA Roadside Service, NSW Long Service Leave Corporation and Qantas Assure, Service NSW, Revenue NSW, TTech. Tourism The Central Coast is a popular holiday destination just an hour away from Sydney. The region has opportunities for all-yearround tourism experiences and is well established in the short break and conference markets. Terrigal, The Entrance, Umina Beach and Ettalong Beach are considered the major tourist areas in the region. The Accor Group operate a number of resorts and hotels in the region including a 5-star Pullman Magenta Shores Resort near The Entrance and Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort at Wyong. Other leading accommodation properties within the region are Crowne Plaza and Star of the Sea Resort Terrigal and Mantra Ettalong Beach. Borg Somersby Plant
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 16 GOSFORD - The Capital of the Central Coast. Situated on the shores of Brisbane Water and an hour by train north from Sydney, Gosford is a major public transport hub with rail and bus interchange and direct road links to Sydney and all other areas within the region. With an area of 3 square kilometers, Gosford comprises a wide range of professional and commercial services rms, a retail precinct and dining options. In recent years the CBD and surrounds has seen signi cant investment in residential developments resulting in a growing residential population that at the time of the 2021 Census was 4,973 and with new developments under construction (See Page 8) will see this number almost double over the next ve years. Additionally, Gosford CBD is expanding and undergoing a transformation that is seeing it become a Health Education and Innovation Precinct with attendant opportunities for research, innovation and higher education. Gosford City Centre SEPP Developments in the Gosford CBD are regulated under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Gosford City Centre) 2018. This SEPP was introduced by the State Government in 2018 to promote investment and economic development. The aims of this Policy are to promote the economic and social revitalisation of Gosford City Centre, strengthen the regional position of Gosford City Centre as a multi-functional and innovative Where to invest Depending on your industry sector – manufacturing, warehousing and logistics, retailing, wholesaling, hospitality or professional services one of the many business centres or industrial areas could be the right location for you. This section sets out in detail the dynamics that drive each business centre across the region as well as the industrial areas. Gosford CBD and Waterfront Photo Courtesy of Marc Charette, Central Coast Digital Media, Commercial & Virtual Tour Photographer” BUSINESS CENTRES The Central Coast is made up of 107 urban and rural suburbs and villages that are serviced by eleven Business Centres. Their commercial characteristics are set out below to provide a snapshot of the region centre for commerce, education, health care, culture and the arts, while creating a highly liveable urban space with design excellence in all elements of its built and natural environments. Gosford TOD Thie NSW Government has implemented the rst stage of its Transport Oriented Development (TOD) planning reforms with Gosford being identi ed as a Tier 1 TOD as Gosford Railway Station is central to the City Centre. This SEPP allows for high-rise residential building heights to be built within the Gosford Precinct creating increased density. Health Education and Innovation Precinct – Gosford CBD is undergoing a transformation that is seeing it become a Health Education and Innovation Precinct with attendant opportunities for research, innovation and higher education. This follows the NSW Government’s $350 million redevelopment of Gosford Hospital in 2019 that was the catalyst for the University of Newcastle to co-locate and invest $72.5 million in a Clinical School and Research Institute adjacent to the hospital. The University of Newcastle Central Coast Clinical School and Research Institute is a nation-leading health, medicine and wellbeing teaching and education facility focussing on integrated healthcare, medical education, research and innovation in addressing the health needs of the local population.
2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 17 Professional and commercial services - Professional and commercial services within the CBD include major trading banks as well as building societies, credit unions and mortgage brokers. Professional services include lawyers, accountants, insurance brokers, real estate agents, property valuers, investment advisers and nancial planners. Retail - Gosford’s retail precinct comprises the Imperial Shopping Centre and other retail stores servicing those working in the CBD as well as residents and the many thousands who visit daily to access commercial, professional, medical and social services. Dining and Entertainment Gosford has a growing number of places to eat from the iconic Hotel Gosford and restaurant to the Railway Hotel both of which o er entertainment. In recent years new restaurants and bars have opened o ering a wide range of food options creating a new and growing night-time economy. Central Coast Leagues Club o ers a wide range of dining, drinking and entertainment options. Gosford Sailing Club restaurant overlooking the Club’s marina o ers a wide range of entertainment options. Drifter’s Wharf on the Gosford Waterfront with a ‘festival by the sea’ focus o ers live entertainment. Health and medical services - Gosford Hospital o ers a full range of public hospital services. Adjacent to Gosford Hospital is the Central Coast Cancer Centre. Gosford Private Hospital is located at North Gosford. Medical specialists and general practitioners along with medical imaging and other medical and health services are all available within the CBD. Education – Schools within the CBD area include Gosford High School - an academically selective high school, Henry Kendall High School, Gosford Primary School and Gosford TAFE. Nearby is Central Coast Grammar School, St Edward’s Christian Brothers College, St Joseph’s Catholic College, Central Coast Adventist School, St Philip’s Christian College and Central Coast Sports College. The University of Newcastle will establish a Gosford Campus in the CBD opening in 2025 Digital and Creative Businesses – The NBN supports a growing number of digital and creative businesses in the CBD with Fibre-to-the-Premises service. Sport and Recreation - The 20,000-seat Industree Group Stadium, managed by VenuesLive, overlooks Brisbane Water, and is regarded as one of the nest stadiums in Australia. Gosford Golf Club and Gosford Race Club are located on the perimeter of the CBD while Gosford Sailing Club is located on the foreshore near the Gosford Boat Harbour and Gosford Olympic Pool. Also on Gosford Waterfront is Leagues Club Park, a 2.4 hectare play space. Residential – High rise residential construction within a radius of two kilometres of the CBD, is seeing a substantial increase in the population over the next few years with the completion in late 2024 of ve major projects. Image of the Archibald by ALAND which when completed in early 2025 feature voco® hotel and Sky Bar Image of voco® hotel porte cochere
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2024-25 CENTRAL COAST INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS 19 Where to invest – Business Centres WEST GOSFORD West Gosford is located on the Central Coast Highway at the gateway to the Central Coast and bordering Gosford CBD with four motels located along this road: Ashwood Motel, Galaxy Motel, Gosford Palms Motor Inn, Waterview Gosford Motor Inn and Ibis Budget. West Gosford is a composite suburb of retail, bulky goods retail and commercial as well as retaining a light industrial area. Gosford RSL Club is a leading entertainment venue and also operates two motels the Ashwood Motel and Galaxy Motel. In early 2024 the Club opened a new $32 million club building highlighting its position at the Gateway to Gosford. The new building features a range of dining options and conference facilities. A new $40 million redevelopment of the Club will be completed in late 2023. Riverside Park features a 4-level o ce tower as part of a bulky goods retail complex. West Gosford Shopping Centre caters for local residents and businesses in surrounding areas. Bulky Goods retailers include: O ceworks, Domain, Spotlight, Bunnings Warehouse and Riverside Park Homemaker Centre. Light industrial Area - An extensive light industrial area makes up a large part of the West Gosford precinct. Recreation: Gosford Race Club is located on the Central Coast Highway. It is a leading NSW provincial race club and operates The Entertainment Grounds which comprises racetrack and extensive function facilities catering for business functions, conferences, trade shows, exhibitions and festivals. Adcock Park Sporting Precinct is located on the Central Coast Highway within minutes of Gosford CBD. Central Coast Council has redeveloped the precinct with an investment of $26.2 million transforming it into a Regional Sports Facility. Gosford Tennis and Pickleball Club - Located near the Gosford Racetrack, Gosford Tennis Club is a long established club with a thirteen competition court complex. ERINA Fountain Plaza / Platinum Precinct at Erina Erina is situated on the Central Coast Highway, the main arterial road to the Region’s beaches, 5.5 kilometres from Gosford CBD. Within the Erina business precinct is the regional shopping centre Erina Fair, commercial and retail developments and a light industrial area. Surrounding the business area are a number of retirement villages along with a residential area that has developed over the past twenty years. Retail - Erina Fair Shopping Centre, is the 22nd largest shopping centre in Australia attracting some 12 million people each year. Homewares Precinct - Also located in Erina are discount retailers, Harvey Norman and some twenty other national brand name furniture and electrical retailers. Home renovation retailers and interior design consultants also have premises in Erina. This grouping of homeware retailers provides an unusual critical mass making Erina a magnet for home makers and renovators. Commercial - Most developments in Erina are a mix of retail and commercial with Fountain Plaza and adjacent Platinum and Fountain Corporate being regarded as the premium commercial precinct on the Central Coast. Commercial services in Erina and Erina Fair include banking and nancial services, lawyers, accountants, nance brokers and insurance brokers. Medical - Due to its convenient location Erina has attracted a large number of medical and para medical services. Central Coast Day Hospital specialises in eye surgery procedures, a number of eye specialists are located close by. I-MED Radiology Network, Medical Imaging Erina and PRP Diagnostic Imaging have facilities in Erina. Other medical services include; skin cancer clinics, dentists, general practitioners and specialists. Education – Public schools at Erina include Erina High School and Woodport Primary School. Also at Erina are Central Coast Adventist School and Central Coast Grammar School at Erina Heights. Retirement Living – A number of retirement villages that cater for high net worth retirees are well established in Erina. Retire Australia owns Tarragal Glen Retirement Village, Tarragal Manor and Wood Glen Retirement Village. Other retirement living alternatives are Pine Needles Lifestyle Estate, Green Life Erina and Karalta Court Erina. TUGGERAH West eld Tuggerah shopping centre Tuggerah is geographically at the centre of the Central Coast region and has been designated a Regional City. It is located 4 kms south of Wyong Town Centre and at the convergence of the Paci c Highway, the M1 Motorway and
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