As the next state election approaches in 2027, the mayors of the Hunter Joint Organisation's ten member councils are preparing their wish lists, advocating for critical infrastructure funding to support regional growth. At the annual Newcastle Business Club lunch on Tuesday, leaders from the "big four" councils—Newcastle's Ross Kerridge, Maitland's Philip Penfold, Lake Macquarie's Adam Shultz, and Port Stephens' Leah Anderson—clearly outlined their priorities.
Key Infrastructure Demands Take Centre Stage
At the top of Cr Anderson's list is a substantial request for approximately $50 million to develop a freight terminal at Newcastle Airport. She emphasised the need for state and federal government support to grow the airport into the facility the region deserves. "Record numbers just came through here last month, and we see that the opportunity is for the Hunter region at large, it's not just for Port Stephens and Newcastle," Cr Anderson stated.
The proposed freight hub is seen as complementary to ongoing expansions, including the international passenger terminal and airfield upgrades. Positioned to export farm produce, defence-related cargo, and fast-moving consumer goods, the terminal is projected to generate $155 million in economic benefits, according to Hunter Joint Organisation documents.
Airport Expansion and Regional Advocacy
Recent developments at Newcastle Airport include new direct flights to Bali, Perth, and Hobart, alongside the completion of an expanded terminal. The airport has also submitted a proposal to the state government for co-investment in additional routes, aiming to extend its national and international footprint through a co-funded five-year Newcastle Airport Accelerated Aviation Growth Fund.
Cr Anderson highlighted that unlocking a freight terminal is essential to making new routes viable for airlines, noting, "We want to walk before we run." In the coming months, Hunter JO mayors plan to visit Sydney to meet with state politicians and advocate for the region's fair share of funding.
Call for Government Accountability and Investment
Maitland mayor Cr Penfold criticised the state Labor government for blaming previous administrations over the past three years, urging them to take responsibility. "It's time for the new government to loosen the purse strings and appropriately spend where the growth is," he asserted. With Maitland's population reaching 100,000, Cr Penfold stressed that ratepayers alone cannot fund the necessary infrastructure, expressing hope for government financial support.
The lunch event, attended by about 180 business community members and hosted by MC Jaimie Abbott, fostered open dialogue on the region's future. Newcastle Business Club president Sam Rykers emphasised the importance of collaboration for sustainable growth, strong communities, and local business confidence.
Unity and Shared Vision for the Hunter
Each mayor had ten minutes to address the audience, followed by a question and answer session. Lake Macquarie mayor Cr Shultz pointed to the Hunter's interconnectedness as a unique opportunity for advocacy, referencing a strategic partnership with Central Coast Council to support growing southwestern suburbs. "What's good for Port Stephens is good for Newcastle, what's good for Newcastle is good for Maitland and Lake Macquarie and vice versa," he said, underscoring a unified approach.
Newcastle lord mayor Cr Kerridge echoed this sentiment, highlighting the city's potential for greatness through collective effort. "If we do this right, the future can be really something," he remarked, advocating for a shared vision where everyone plays a part in the journey.
