The Illawarra Shoalhaven “Next Generation” Economic Development Blueprint was formally launched on Friday 28 June 2024 by The Hon. Ryan Park, MP, Minister for Health, Minister for Regional Health and Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast.

Funded by the former Department of Regional NSW, the Blueprint is the product of widespread stakeholder input across Government, the private sector and key interest groups.  It has as its intention the setting of an agreed direction for collective action and for Federal, State and local plans and the establishment of a smooth runway for private investment.

The Blueprint identifies five “Big Moves” that will transform our region and respond to Sydney’s growth and local needs.   While some moves have a specific geography, all will generate region-wide benefits and beyond.  They include:

1.     Grow Greater Wollongong’s influence in servicing south-west Sydney and vice versa, expanding access to markets and talent
2.     Activate and transform the Wollongong-Port Kembla catalyst area to accelerate region-wide diversification and innovation and expand opportunities for Shoalhaven defence manufacturing
3.     Unlock the Renewable Energy Zone, Hydrogen Hub and local supply chain opportunities across the region
4.     Support the growth of technology-driven manufacturing, research and skills development
5.     Amplify the region’s capability and innovation reach across health and care, education and training

The Blueprint then identifies what needs to happen for our Region and its partners to realise the potential contribution of the Big Moves to our Region, State and Nation.
Importantly, the Blueprint also stresses the importance of a focus on key enabling mechanisms including better connectivity, a healthy supply of well-located housing and a proactive and collaborative innovation ecosystem working toward a common vision.
The last factor – already a strength in our region – will continue to grow and expand as we work together to help bring about the vast and transformative change so strongly articulated in the Strategy.

A full copy of the Illawarra Shoalhaven Next Generation Economic Development Blueprint may be clicking on the image above or clicking here ISJO-Report-FinalWeb-Spread.