The Central Coast Leadership Forum (‘CCLF’) was established in 2024 as a group of local leaders from across business, government, and the community sector coming together to build prosperity in the Central Coast.
Recognising the region’s unique strengths and opportunities, the CCLF’s mission is to strengthen the Coast’s unmatched quality of life and ensure a thriving, resilient future. Among the Forum’s first priorities was engaging with investors, residents and other key stakeholders to determine what is required for the Central Coast to reach its full potential.
‘With a federal election on the horizon, we believed it was critical for the Central Coast to speak with one strong and united voice’, said Mr David Norris, Chair of the CCLF.
‘We recognised the need for strong, coordinated advocacy to ensure that the Coast’s voice is heard and that it receives its fair share.’
‘There are several close races in the upcoming Federal Election, and we are determined to ensure that our future representatives align with our ambition for the region.’
‘The Central Coast is the third largest local government area in NSW. It’s blessed with a unique combination of lifestyle and opportunity.’
‘Our [the CCLF’s] job is to build on our region’s strengths without compromising our unique advantages.’
‘We are proudly and unashamedly pro-Central Coast.’
Mr Norris noted that while the CCLF respects the significant investments directed towards Western Sydney, the Central Coast must not be overlooked.
‘We’ve seen substantial funding and resources flow to Western Sydney in recent years. While those investments are important, the Central Coast deserves the same level of ambition, attention and support.’
Following extensive consultations with leaders from across business, government and the community, the CCLF has developed a Five Point Plan ahead of the Federal Election.
The CCLF is calling on our federal candidates to commit to the following priorities:
- Provide funding support for the completion of an integrated, holistic Urban Renewal Plan for the Gosford CBD and Waterfront, that maximises the economic and community opportunities from all existing and planned investments, both private and public.
- Fund an initial scoping study into the realignment of the Central Coast Highway (Gosford waterfront), to provide planning certainty for the future and support urban renewal opportunities.
- Establish a permanent presence in Gosford for the High Speed Rail Authority, to drive community engagement and awareness, and maximise long-term regional benefits.
- Support the expedited completion of the Central Coast Strategic Conservation Plan (‘CCSCP’), to remove the risk of regulatory delays and provide much needed certainty to planners and investors.
- Provide targeted gap funding for enabling road infrastructure, that unlocks new housing supply over the next 10 years and supports future housing growth needs.
‘These aren’t partisan ideas. They are practical, considered, and achievable initiatives that will deliver a real impact’, Mr Norris said.
‘We call upon the next Federal Government, regardless of political persuasion, to partner with us in realising these priorities.’
‘The Central Coast is ready to go. What we want to now is Federal leadership which sees our potential and positions us to realise it.’
For media inquiries and further information, including interview opportunities, please contact Mitchell Parker-Wilkin via 0427076408 or mparker-wilkin@freshwaterstrategy.com