Williamtown Special Activation Precinct to Create Jobs, Millions of Dollars, And Possible Life Life for Red Zone Residents

BY DAKOTA TAIT

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

Astra Aerolab Officially Underway

BY MADELAINE MCNEILL

Newcastle Airport's Astra Aerolab precinct is a step closer to reality, with construction now officially underway and a new lease agreement signed with a major contractor.

Deputy Premier John Barilaro used an excavator to turn the first sod at Williamtown this morning, watched on by Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock, Chairman Peter Gesling, Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer and MP Kate Washington.

Andrew Chapman, Aircraft Sustainment General Manager for BAE Systems Australia, also made an appearance with the Airport announcing today it has signed an agreement with the major defence contractor allowing it to lease land on the 76-hectare site.

Dr Peter Cock said the new agreement signifies an exciting milestone for the project.

“BAE Systems Australia is the nation’s largest defence and security company, so the importance of this signing cannot be overestimated,” he said.

“BAE’s presence will not only attract further jobs and investment but help ensure we develop the world-class defence and aerospace precinct that our region deserves.”

Last year, the Deputy Premier announced a grant of $11.7 million dollars to kickstarts the project's development.

“I am thrilled this precinct will allow aviation companies to quickly establish themselves at this new location and get on with the job of supporting Royal Australian Air Force combat aircraft, including the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter,” said Mr Barilaro.

“By funding the Astra Aerolab precinct, we are helping to create jobs for aerospace engineers, aviation, IT and avionics specialists and attracting workers to the Hunter region.

“I want to thank Newcastle Airport, the City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council for their hard work and commitment to making this precinct a reality,” he said.

Ryan Palmer, John Barilaro, Nuatali Nelmes, Kate Washington, Dr Peter Cock, Andrew Chapman, Peter Gesling

New Aerolab To Create More Jobs For The Region

BY XANTHE GREGORY

Deputy Premier John Barilaro today announced the launch of an $11.7 million defence, aviation, aerospace and technology precinct near the Williamtown RAAF Base.

The new 'Astra Aerolab' is set to generate over 5,500 jobs in the Hunter region and drive $246 million into the NSW economy.

Plans were revealed at the Newcastle Airport earlier this morning with Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald and Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock present.

The investment will house maintenance and support services for Australian fighter jets, including the F-36 Joint Strike Fighter and Hawk 127, which require significant long-term maintenance and upkeep.

"This investment will capitalise on the existing economic strengths of the region, securing 76 hectares of special purpose land committed to defence and aviation-related industry and employment," Mr Barilaro said.

Minister for Trade and Industry Niall Blair says it's great news for students following the NSW Government's recent $400,000 commitment to the STEMship Program.

"With this project we are actively creating attractive, engaging career pathways for people living in the regions, supporting local economies and backing our local defence industry," said Mr Blair.

Newcastle Aiport will use the $11.7 million of NSW Government funding to pay for utilities as well as the construction of a major access road.

$7.86 million will be contributed by Newcastle Airport to the $19 million project.

"This is a fantastic project that will give our local economy a boost and secure long-term viability of both the Williamtown Base and Newcastle Airport," said Mr McDonald.