This significant advocacy document outlines key infrastructure projects needed to unlock the Central Coast’s full potential in housing, employment and transport.
From road upgrades and transport corridors to servicing for employment and residential lands and investment in high-density housing precincts, the guide sets a clear list of infrastructure priorities for Government and private sector investment.
The Central Coast Peak Bodies Alliance is a collaborative initiative between Business NSW (BNSW), Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDACC), Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC), the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), and the Property Council of Australia.
The group came together in 2024 with a shared commitment to advocate for enabling infrastructure to support sustainable growth across the region.
The Alliance’s first joint initiative—Central Coast Housing Now Actions 2024—was launched at the Premier’s Breakfast last year. Developed in partnership with local business chambers and Pacific Link Housing, that plan identified seven key reforms to accelerate housing delivery.
The new Infrastructure Guide builds on that foundation, with a broader focus on job creation, precinct activation, and future-proofing the region’s economic development.
Scott Goold, Regional Director of Business NSW, said the Central Coast has reached a pivotal moment.
“This guide is a clear call to action for government and the private sector to commit to the critical infrastructure that will drive housing supply, jobs, and regional prosperity. We stand ready to work alongside government and industry to deliver a more connected and resilient future," Mr Goold said.
The guide identifies several infrastructure priorities, including the delivery of water and sewer upgrades, Pacific Highway intersection improvements, the Warnervale to Wyong Link Road, Sparks Road intersection upgrades, and a masterplan for Gosford Station.
It also highlights longer-term strategic projects such as the Central Coast Airport redevelopment, Central Coast Film Studios, and connectivity between Gosford CBD and the Gosford Waterfront.
Elizabeth York, Regional Manager, UDIA NSW, said: "The Central Coast is experiencing a housing crisis. Prices have risen 36% since 2018 and vacancy rates are as low as 0.6% in key areas like Gosford.
"We need more homes and new homes need infrastructure, without it they simply won’t be built. Infrastructure investment is essential to accelerate housing delivery and improve affordability across the region."
John Mouland, CEO of Regional Development Australia Central Coast said with a forecast population increase of 15% and a regional economy expected to nearly double by 2040, the Central Coast needs investment in the infrastructure that supports both residents and industry and the guide offers a collaborative and evidence-backed approach to achieving that."
The guide notes that while the Central Coast has over 900 hectares of employment-zoned land, only 82 hectares is currently serviceable and unconstrained. Upgrades to roads, sewer and water infrastructure are essential to unlock the economic potential of areas such as Warnervale, Somersby, and Bushell’s Ridge.
Frank Sammut, Executive Director of Central Coast Industry Connect, said businesses can’t expand, and new industries can’t move in, unless the Coast has has serviceable land. Infrastructure is the enabler, and this guide makes it crystal clear where investment is needed to unleash job creation and future-proof our economy."
Scott Goold is Regional Director, Business NSW.
