A brand new national and international defence and aerospace hub will be established in Williamtown as part of the State Government's $1 billion investment plan for regional NSW.
Deputy Premier John Barilaro visited the area this morning, announcing Williamtown as the next Special Activation Precinct in NSW, following areas such as Parkes, Wagga Wagga, Moree, and the Snowy Mountains,
Together, the five precincts are expected to create more than 15,000 jobs in regional industries such as freight and logistics, agriculture, defense, tourism, and renewable energy.
Port Stephens Deputy Mayor Chris Doohan says the project will guide the region for the next few decades, and with an emphasis on advanced manufacturing and aerospace, it could provide a fantastic opportunity for future generations to get involved in STEM careers.
"There's probably jobs out there that haven't even been invented yet that will probably happen in this area," said Cr Doohan. "It's a very bright looking future for Port Stephens and for the Willamtown area."
Deputy Premier John Barilaro says the project will involve extensive consultation with businesses, councils, and the local community.
The NSW Government will also explore a 10,000 hectare space around Newcastle Airport and the Port Stephens local government area - and for families and property owners with land in the PFAS contamination zone, Cr Doohan suggests this project could provide a way out.
"Today's announcement could certainly support them in buying out those properties," said Cr Doohan.
"If this grows to a bigger and better thing, who knows how many more people could be supported with buybacks to their properties in that areas."
"I certainly gave Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, a reminder that was a major issue in this area, and if this was the start of a means of an end to a solution for these people".
"He was very interested to take this conversation further going forward."
 |
| Image credit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/williamtownsap |
