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www.investregional.nsw.gov.au

Start here. Go further.

Invest in Regional NSW

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New South Wales (NSW) is the largest and most diverse state economy in Australia

Sydney

Front cover image source: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

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ContentsHow we can help 2

Deputy Premier’s introduction 3

Regional NSW – Start here. Go further. 4

Sectors of investment opportunity 13

Advanced manufacturing 14

Agribusiness and food 16

Defence and aerospace 19

Forestry 22

Freight, logistics and distribution 24

Health and aged care 26

Mining and resources 28

Professional and financial services 30

Renewable energy 32

Tourism 34

NSW Regions and investment opportunities 37

Central Coast 38

Central West and Orana 39

Far West 40

Hunter 42

Illawarra-Shoalhaven 43

New England and North West 44

North Coast 46

Riverina Murray 47

South East and Tablelands 48

Contacts 50

A$577 billion economy, home to 7.74 million people


The NSW Government’s regional and international network of investment specialists provide assistance and advice to prospective investors.

We can help with tailor-made investment facilitation and information services including:

Delivery of investment programs to support businesses that are:

• expanding and developing new market opportunities

• looking to set up greenfield operations• planning to relocate to Regional NSW.

Guidance on setting up a business in NSW

Helping potential investors identify and develop commercial opportunities in a specific industry sector or region

Comparative investment metrics, data and potential locations

Coordination across key government agencies and regulatory bodies

Assistance in identifying business-to-business solutions and opportunities

Advice on accessing grants and other financial incentives

Introductions to national and state industry associations

Information on relocation and visa requirements

E : [email protected] W : www.investregional.nsw.gov.auImage source: Dee Kramer Photography

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How we can help

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Deputy Premier’s introduction

As a government, we know business leaders demand confidence before they invest. Australia is enjoying its 27th consecutive year of economic growth, while our state of NSW leads the country on almost every economic measure.

Surrounding our world-famous capital of Sydney is the vast, resource-rich area of Regional NSW - the powerhouse of our state’s success. Over the years, many international companies have taken advantage of its competitive strengths, and made it their home.

Our Government has a strong record of supporting our regions, specifically creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity by investing A$29.8 billion in high priority regional infrastructure. It’s also thanks to the ideas and efforts of innovators, entrepreneurs, small businesses and researchers who have unleashed the potential of our regions.

Of course, no two areas are alike – Regional NSW is the largest and most diverse regional economy in Australia. From the tourist havens of Byron Bay and Port Stephens to the global smart city of Newcastle, down to the rich agricultural

Bega Valley and out to the mining heartland of our Far West, each centre has unique opportunities to capitalise on.

The NSW Government works hard to identify the opportunities available for international business investment across key industries and regions. Our A$18 million Boosting Business Innovation Program (BBIP) supports opportunities like the defence innovation hub at Williamtown, an agritech hub at Wagga Wagga, and SMART Region Incubators in Armidale and Tamworth. The BBIP brings the state’s best academic and business minds together to develop new ideas and turn them into commercial realities.

We’re determined to share in opportunities with partners who can further grow our communities. Our NSW Government agencies work collaboratively with international research partners. We advise businesses through our network of Government offices in every major country centre. We help businesses of all sizes start up, then scale up, with initiatives from small business grants to major innovation programs. In short, as a government we are doing everything we can to make doing business as easy and rewarding as possible.

We know Regional NSW offers more than just economic opportunities, it offers an incomparable way of life. The landscapes and scenery are simply spectacular. By working together to drive business confidence, jobs and major infrastructure, we hope to welcome more businesses, individuals and families that will make our regions their home.

The Hon. John Barilaro, MPNSW Deputy PremierMinister for Regional NSWMinister for SkillsMinister for Small Business

Start here. Go further.

Image source: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

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New South Wales (NSW) is Australia’s largest and most diverse state economy, accounting for one-third of the nation’s economic output and home to more than 30% of all Australians.

Strategically located on the east coast of Australia, NSW sits on the Pacific Rim with access to Asian, American and European markets.

The world famous city of Sydney is NSW’s cosmopolitan capital, the most populous city in Australia and Oceania.

Beyond Sydney is the vast, resource-rich area of Regional NSW.

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Australia 24.5 million, NSW 7.7 million, Regional NSW 3 million

Population

7.7 Million

State’s economic growth 2016-17

Growth

2.9%

Infrastructure investment over 2017-2021

Infrastructure

A$72.7 Billion

NSW State key facts

Largest Australian state economy, 2016-17

Economy

A$577 Billion

The highest possible credit rating

Credit

Triple-A Rating

32% of Australian total

Workforce

3.8 Million

21% of Australian exports

Exports

A$78 Billion

NSW employment growth

Employment

3.8%

ABS (3101.0, 3218.0, 5220.0, 5368.0 and 6202.0), NSW Budget 2017-18 statements, Moody’s and Standard & Poors, Australian National Accounts: State Accounts 2016-17

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Regional NSW – Start here. Go further.

Now, more than ever, Regional

NSW is the starting point

for people, businesses and

ideas that go further.


For starters, we’re Australia’s

strongest regional economy with

a diverse wealth of opportunities to match, but we don’t stop there.

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Go further with access to opportunities. Key markets are on your

doorstep: Sydney and the rest of Australia, the

Asian region or, really, anywhere

in the world.

Here you’ll have everything you need to empower business success: competitive

operating costs, a highly-skilled workforce that is innovative by nature, a healthy

work/life balance, vibrant regional

centres, world-class infrastructure and

digital connectivity.

Go further in partnership with the NSW Government, and its once-in-a-

generation investment to further develop

regional communities and expand

local economies. Opportunity and

prosperity continue to grow across every industry, everywhere

in NSW.

Here you’ll see our track record

of successful investment

has built more than just solid foundations.

Regional NSW is a launchpad to establish,

partner or grow businesses

of tomorrow.

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Image source: Orange City Council

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Opportunities exist across established and emerging sectors including:

Agribusiness and food

Renewable energy

Health and aged care

ForestryDefence and aerospace

Advanced manufacturing

Professional and financial services

Freight, logistics and distribution

Mining and resources

Tourism

Why invest in Regional NSW?

Regional NSW is the largest and most diverse regional economy in Australia, comprising one-third of the NSW economy. Investing and doing business in Regional NSW offers a strategic location that can leverage off Sydney and link to growing domestic and international markets.

Regional NSW is rich in resources, talented labour and successful businesses, with lower living and operational costs than major cities. Diverse industry strengths have been developed using innovation and technology to add value and increase productivity.

Approximately 39% of the value of NSW’s exports are derived from agricultural, fisheries and other natural resources, primarily sourced from Regional NSW.

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Regional NSW: a diverse traded economy1

Stable economy, business security

Key facts about Regional NSW

of manufactured goods are produced regionally, particularly food and defence

33%

of the workforce employed in services, the highest of all Australian states

57%

contribution to the NSW state economy

30%

employment growth April 2015 - September 2017

5.3%

Regional NSW is intimately connected to Sydney’s dynamic economy, and sector strengths in financial services, ICT, construction, manufacturing, arts, culture and screen.

Regional NSW benefits from a stable state government, a transparent legal system, strong property protections and business-friendly regulation and policies.

Businesses can take advantage of Australia’s economy, the 13th largest in the world and in its 27th consecutive year of annual economic growth.2

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Agribusiness, food and forestry, 8%

Mining, 8%

Manufacturing, 6%

Energy, 4%

Freight, logistics and distribution, 4%

Professional services, 14% Health and

aged care, 3%

Other traded sectors, 12%

Construction and infrastructure, 7%

Other local sectors, 34%

Source: ABS (6291.0); analysis based on ABS (5220) and DIRS, Australian Industry Report 2016, Experimental Gross Regional Product Estimates

1 Sectors do not match to Australian and New Zealand Standard Industry Classifications (ANZSIC) but are a combination of industry classifications. 2 ABS (5204.0) and IMF World Economic Outlook Database.

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Successful track record of international companies doing business in Regional NSW, including:

Connected to markets Infrastructure Low costs

Regional NSW is connected to large and growing markets in Sydney, Australia, the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

It is a strategic location for international companies seeking an investment and trade base to do business with Asia, or to establish a presence in the Asia-Pacific market. Ten of Australia’s top 12 export markets are within the Asian region.3

Australia’s extensive free trade agreements with major economies across Asia, Europe and North America facilitate the smooth flow of goods, services and investments.

Goods are transported by road and rail from Regional NSW to domestic and international markets via sophisticated logistics, distribution and transport networks.

Regional NSW has access to seven international ports as well as international airfreight and passenger services from Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane and Gold Coast international airports. There are more than 70 public airports in the region.

The cost of doing business in Regional NSW is typically much less than in major metropolitan locations.

Office rental costs in Regional NSW average A$249 per square metre per year compared to A$675 in Melbourne’s CBD.4 Wages are also lower, reflecting a generally lower cost of living, with median wages of A$60,700 per year.5 Domestic utilities are priced competitively in Regional NSW, for example the average annual charge for domestic waste in Regional NSW is A$293.

3 Australian Trade and Investment Commission, 2017 [https://www.austrade.gov.au/]. 4 LJ Hooker Commercial, 2017. 5 ABS 2017 Greater Capital City Statistical Area-Rest of NSW, Census 2016.

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Skilled and smart workforce

Average annual commercial rent per square metre

Innovation and digital connectivity

Skilled labour is readily available in Regional NSW.

Half the regional workforce hold tertiary qualifications, of which 24% have a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) qualification, 10% have a health qualification and 4% have an agricultural qualification.6

Regional NSW is home to world-class research and innovation centres, specialising in agricultural technology, defence and advanced manufacturing.

Businesses and industry groups can partner with local institutions to develop cutting edge innovations and technologies.

Regional NSW’s University of Newcastle and the University of Wollongong both rank in the top 300 universities in the world (2018 Times Higher Education Index). A strong regional network of tertiary education and technical training institutions ensures a ready supply of innovative graduates.

Connectivity continues to be enhanced with the new National Broadband Network being rolled out across regions. Many regional centres are already receiving services and more than two million businesses and households across NSW will be connected by early 2018.7

-100 100 300 500 700 900

Perth

Melbourne

Brisbane

Adelaide

Regional NSW

Unit = A$

A ve ra g e a nnua l c o m m e rc ia l re nt p e r s q ua re m e tre

S ourc e: L J H ooker C om m erc ia l, 20 17

6 Census of Population and Housing, 2011 7 NBN weekly progress reports, www.nbnco.com.au/corporate-information/about-nbn-co/corporate-plan/weekly-progress-report.html

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Great lifestyle and career opportunities

Unprecedented NSW Government support for Regional NSW

Regional NSW is a great place to live and do business. More people are moving to Regional NSW for the lifestyle, and increasingly diverse employment and career opportunities.8

Spectacular coastlines and beaches, 900 national and regional parks, stunning rural vistas, the outback, and the country’s largest ski fields are all available in Regional NSW. Safe and relaxed coastal and inland cities and towns are connected by world-class transport and infrastructure. Residents enjoy excellent access to high quality education, health care and public services.

Regional NSW residents report a higher quality of life, better life satisfaction, a sense of community belonging and better housing affordability in surveys.9

Regional NSW is benefiting from a once-in-a-generation public investment in its infrastructure and communities to boost regional growth, and support businesses and investors.

A$4.1 billion

For regional transport infrastructure including regional growth roads, freight corridors and regional rail lines.

A$1 billion For regional water infrastructure.

A$500 millionFor enabling infrastructure needed to support job creation and economic growth across Regional NSW.

A$300 millionFor infrastructure to increase tourist visitation to Regional NSW and create jobs.

A$200 million

To support councils and community groups in delivering crucial local infrastructure to improve quality of life across Regional NSW.

A$200 million To support investment into sports and cultural infrastructure.

A$50 millionTo invest in communications infrastructure and deliver improved regional voice and data connectivity.

Key financial investments include:

Image source: NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet

8 Core Logic, ABS internal migration statistics 2016 9 NSW Centre for Economic Development

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Regional NSW enjoys a diverse range of sector strengths supported by its workforce, raw materials, manufacturing, services and infrastructure.

These have been developed using innovation and technology, in partnership with world-class research institutes, universities and the private sector.

Sectors of investment opportunity


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With state-of-the-art facilities and cutting edge technology throughout Regional NSW, advanced manufacturing is supplying some of the world’s largest multinational companies and driving sustained economic growth.

Leading manufacturers are thriving in Regional NSW. In 2014-15, the advanced manufacturing sector contributed A$7.3 billion to the economy.10 Regional NSW has successfully attracted many international manufacturing companies due to its skilled local workforce, low-cost environment, access to markets, and research and development centres.

Regional NSW offers advanced manufacturing strengths and opportunities in aviation, energy, electronics, ICT, industrial equipment, marine, medical equipment, computer equipment and appliances. Other promising advanced manufacturing opportunities exist in agribusiness, renewable energy and defence.

Three Cooperative Research Centres – the Warren Centre for Advanced Engineering, the Australian National Fabrication Facility and the Australian Centre for Electro-Material Science – partner with industry to provide world-class research and development.11

10 The Advanced manufacturing cluster consists of a rich combination of textile, wood-related, petroleum, pharmaceutical, chemical and polymer manufacturing services. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products. 11 NSW Department of Industry, Industry Opportunities

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Birdon is a diversified marine engineering and services business offering innovative solutions to the military and maritime industries. The business is headquartered in Port Macquarie NSW and has operations across Australia, the United States of America and Europe.

Birdon offers lifecycle services and support – from design to manufacturing, maintenance and disposal – and is strongly focused on product development with the aim to provide customised solutions to clients.

Birdon is a regular top 20 SME supplier to the Australian defence forces and one of only two Australian companies to contract directly to the US Army. In 2014, Birdon Group won a US$259 million contract to supply the US Army with 374 Bridge Erection Boats using Australian innovation.

Milspec Manufacturing is an Albury-based engineering facility that has been developing and manufacturing defence and industry products for over 40 years. Today, Milspec works closely with most defence prime contractors, designing and manufacturing subsystems for complex defence programs as well as infrastructure projects. It is a recognised global player in the fields of alternators, portable power and subsystems. Milspec’s clients include Rheinmetall MAN, BAE Systems, Thales, Boeing, Thomas Global Systems and Siemens. Milspec’s own products include military standard alternators, exportable power systems, auxiliary power units, power distribution units and cabling systems.

Milspec renovated and expanded its Albury facilities in 2016, introducing a new robotic welding cell, a larger clean room for electrical/electronic work, and an upgraded security system for sensitive military work. A significant growth in workforce was also an element of the expansion.

Birdon Marine – North Coast Region

Milspec Manufacturing – Riverina Murray Region

Success Stories

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40

India

Korea

UK

Japan

China (PRC)

Rest of the world

USA

APEC (excl. US, China, Japan & Korea)

Unit percentage

N S W m a nufa c ture d p ro d uc t ex p o rts by c o untry/ re g io n

S ourc e: D epartm ent of F oreig n A ffa irs and T rad e 20 17, T rad e statis tic a l p ivot tables - S tate by c ountry and T R IE C pivot table 19 9 0 to 20 16 .

NSW manufactured product exports by country/region


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Regional NSW is known the world over for safe, high-quality food products. Tech-enabled, innovation-fuelled and value-added, agribusiness in Regional NSW benefits from optimal growing conditions together with rising domestic and international demand.

Regional NSW is a significant producer of agricultural commodities and value-added food and beverage products. The agribusiness sector contributed nearly A$9 billion to the economy in 2014-15.12 75% of the state’s land mass is used for agriculture and 80% of all water extracted under NSW water-sharing plans is diverted to agricultural production. The state produces 99% of national rice output, 59% of cotton and 36% of wheat.13

Regional NSW has a workforce experienced in agricultural production and processing, as well as established agribusiness transport, distribution and logistics infrastructure.

Regional NSW enjoys a diverse climate and geography which enables production of a wide range of goods including grains, oilseeds, nuts, berries, citrus, livestock, aquaculture, processed foods, dairy, beverages, wine, cotton and wool.

Image source: Mars Australia

12 The agribusiness sector consists of a combination of agriculture and aquaculture-related production, farming, food manufacturing, processing and wholesaling. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products. 13 Department of Primary Industries Agriculture, Industry Action Plan (November 2014)

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International food and beverage supplier

Top 10 export destinations for Australian food and fibre (2015-2016)

Innovation and collaboration

Regional NSW supplies agricultural commodities and manufactured food and beverages to the world’s largest consumer markets in Asia, the Americas, the Middle East and Europe. It has an international reputation for high food safety standards and clean, safe foods. Market access is secured through Australia’s extensive network of Free Trade Agreements.

The Australian agriculture industry is estimated to require A$109.2 billion of overseas investment by 2025 to maintain its current share of world exports which presents significant opportunities for investors.

World-leading agricultural technology hubs across Regional NSW bring together industry, research and government to commercialise new products and processes.

— New England Agtech Cluster in Armidale is backed by the NSW Government and underpinned by the University of New England.

— Wagga Wagga’s agricultural technology hub involves AgriFutures Australia, the Graham Centre and Charles Sturt University.

— Orange’s Global Agri-Tech Ecosystem (GATE) offers access to the NSW Department of Primary Industries’ expertise and networks as the largest agricultural research and development provider in Australia. GATE is an end-to-end ecosystem for project development from ideation, incubation and acceleration through to investor funding and commercialisation.

— Central Coast Food Innovation Cluster joins the University of Newcastle and key industry players to collaborate on research projects relevant to the food and beverage industry.

Diverse products

Regional NSW enjoys a diverse climate and geography which produces a wide range of goods, including:

— primary crops such as nuts, berries, other horticulture, grains, oilseeds and pulses

— primary livestock particularly sheep, beef cattle, goats, pigs and poultry

— aquaculture, fishing and seaweed farming

— livestock inputs manufacturing

— processed food, olive oil and dairy

— beverages especially wine, craft beer and spirits

— cotton, wool and other fibres.

-1 1 3 5 7 9

MalaysiaIndia

Hong KongNew Zealand

VietnamSouth Korea

IndonesiaUSA

JapanChina

Unit: A$ BillionS ourc e: A ustrad e 20 17, W hy A ustra lia B enc hm ark R eport 20 17.

To p 10 ex p o rt d e s t ina t io ns fo r A us tra lia n fo o d a nd f ib re ( 2 0 15 - 2 0 16 )

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Mars Petcare, one of the world’s leading pet food and veterinary care businesses, has been operating successfully in Bathurst since 1978. In May 2015, Mars opened its new A$100 million state-of-the-art dry pet food factory, reinforcing its commitment to Australian manufacturing and continuing its proud track record of regional investment. It represents one of the largest investments ever made in Bathurst.

The facility is one of the most advanced and versatile dry pet food factories in the Mars Global network and accommodates 180 local workers to primarily service the domestic market. Mars has publicly stated that the business is a believer in sourcing, manufacturing and selling locally wherever possible.

The factory is equipped with the latest in modern and efficient equipment, energy efficient building design, lean workflow principles and the highest quality food safety standards which has direct implications for competitive, low carbon Australian manufacturing. Its energy efficient build is expected to deliver reductions of 47% in future energy intensity and 40% in carbon intensity.

Mars Petcare has a number of leading brands including PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, MY DOG®, DINE®, ADVANCE™, OPTIMUM™, SCHMACKOS™ and IAMS™. Key specialty brands include the WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition®, a leading scientific authority on pet nutrition and wellbeing.

Bega Cheese, an Australian dairy company based in Bega, was originally founded as a dairy cooperative in 1899. It is currently one of the largest dairy producers in Australia with a value of around A$1.3 billion.

Half of Bega Cheese’s revenue comes from its retail cheese and processed cheese products, with the flagship Bega Cheese brand (distributed by Fonterra under a long-term agreement) holding 15.7% of the Australian retail cheese market. Its Bega, Tatura, Royal Victoria, Melbourne and Dairymont products are exported to 40 countries around the world and distributed across Australia, where they are available in most supermarkets and general stores.

Bega Cheese also produces bulk core dairy ingredients including cheese, cream cheese and powdered milk accounting for approximately 40% of revenue. Bega’s Nutritional and Bionutrients is an important business segment responding to the growing global market for nutritional products. Bega Nutritional and Bionutrients accounts for 20% of revenue.

Bega Cheese’s A$460 million acquisition of Mondelez International’s grocery and cheese businesses in Australia and New Zealand includes iconic brands such as Vegemite. The acquisition will increase Bega’s annual revenue by 25% (A$310 million) and give Bega a strong position in the Australian consumer goods market and transform Bega into a diversified consumer-goods company.

Mars Petcare – Central West Region

Bega Cheese – South East and Tablelands Region

Success Stories

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Defence and aerospace

Home to some of Australia’s most significant military bases, Regional NSW has a number of defence industry clusters co-located with major international primes.

In 2014-15, the defence sector in Regional NSW contributed A$1.6 billion to the economy.14 NSW has the largest number of defence bases and facilities in Australia and is home to over one-quarter of its military and defence civilian personnel. One-third of defence industry employment is in Regional NSW, where the sector generates an important proportion of regional productivity. For example, in the Hunter and Shoalhaven, the economic activity attributable to defence is estimated at 8-12% of Gross Regional Product.

The defence industry is supported by a network of service suppliers. The presence of substantial, technologically-advanced defence facilities within the state presents diverse opportunities for businesses. Many international companies have already established headquarters or operations in NSW. Recent developments offer long-term investment opportunities, including the Australian Government’s commitment of A$195 billion to modernise Australia’s defence capability, guaranteeing long-term demand for defence industry products and services.

14 The aerospace and defence cluster consists of defence and air transport equipment manufacturing services. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products.

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The Port of Newcastle and the Hunter region stand to become a major marine ship repair and maintenance precinct following NSW Government funding to renew the Fitzroy Street shipyard slipway. Thales Australia will begin stage one of a phased redevelopment of the site and expects to grow local supply chain industries to support its maritime operations in the region.

The University of Newcastle Defence and Security Research and Innovation Hub (DSRIH) continues to support regional industry infrastructure, encouraging collaboration between the University of Newcastle, the Hunter region defence industry, and national and international members.

Regional NSW’s defence industry features clusters of large-scale prime contractors, agile SMEs and world-class research and development institutions. Strengths have developed around Defence Force presence and requirements:

— Newcastle Air Force air combat capability, aerospace, maintenance, repair and overhaul, electronics, manufacturing, infantry training, ship building and repair.

— Nowra Naval aviation air targets, electronics and testing, maintenance, repair and overhaul, systems integration and simulation.

— Wagga Wagga/Albury Australian Defence Force training, base support, logistics and munitions.

— North Coast and New England Ship building, maritime sustainment and pilot training.

— Wollongong Armoured steel plate, manufacturing, welding, electronics and communications.

Image source: NSW Department of Industry

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BAE Systems is a global defence, aerospace and security company with a significant workforce located across the globe. BAE has a major base at Williamtown in the Hunter servicing the large RAAF base.

Williamtown is the centre of BAE System’s Australia air combat sustainment activities, including deeper maintenance and line maintenance for the RAAF’s fleet of 33 Hawk 127 lead-in fighters. The presence of BAE Systems acts as a catalyst for other business development in the region. BAE Systems Australia has been assigned Airframe Maintenance, Component Maintenance and Warehousing Depot roles supporting the F-35 Fleet in the Pacific, which could be up to 130 aircraft. This includes F-35 from foreign air force assets operating in the region, such as those from South Korea, Japan, Singapore and the US. Further opportunities exist for regional component maintenance (repair and testing) and warehousing for the regional F-35 Joint Strike Fighter fleet.

Sikorsky Aircraft, a Lockheed Martin company, established maintenance and warehouse facilities in Nowra in 2014. The helicopter maintenance and logistics hub provides Through Life Support logistics services for the Royal Australian Navy’s fleet of 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters.

Sikorsky used its experience servicing US Navy H-60 maritime helicopters to establish an effective business model to service Australia’s maritime helicopter needs in Nowra. Its two modern and dedicated buildings cover over 11,400 square metres at the Albatross Aviation Technology Park, adjacent to the Royal Australian Navy’s MH-60R operational squadron facilities at HMAS Albatross. The Sikorsky Nowra hub employs 120 Australian personnel including skilled technicians and administrators that will keep the fleet in peak flight readiness during its estimated 30-year lifespan.

The Albatross Aviation Technology Park is designed specifically to support defence and aviation industries, leveraging the nearby airfield of HMAS Albatross, southwest of Nowra. International companies and locally-based SMEs operating from the park primarily service the Royal Australian Navy but also other Australian Defence Force clients and customers located elsewhere in Australia and overseas.

BAE Systems Australia – Hunter Region

Sikorsky - Illawarra –Shoalhaven Region

Success Stories

Forestry

Image source: NSW Department of Primary Industries

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With Asian markets on our doorstep, Regional NSW is fuelling the Asia-Pacific’s construction and manufacturing powerhouses of today and tomorrow. Significant domestic and international demand for softwood offers exciting investment opportunities in new plantations.

The forestry sector contributed nearly A$200 million to the state economy in 2014-15.15 NSW’s softwood plantations provide the most significant opportunity for investment, valued at A$1.9 billion.16 Regional NSW has 400,000 hectares of plantation forests and produces nearly one-third of Australia’s softwood timber. Paper and paperboard products are now Australia’s most valuable wood product export. A large wood and paper processing industry has developed adjacent to the plantations. NSW has around 63 hardwood and 13 softwood mills, processing more than 5.6 million cubic metres of sawlogs every year.17 Borg Manufacturing recently announced a A$106 million expansion of its fibreboard manufacturing facility in Oberon.

As well as significant domestic demand, international demand for NSW forestry products has grown rapidly, and will be boosted by Free Trade Agreements with Asia.

15 The Forestry cluster consists of forestry, logging and support services. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products. 16 NSW Department of Industry, Forestry Industry Roadmap (08/2016) 17 Timber NSW (accessed at 11/09/2017)

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Norske Skog was established in 1962 in Norway and has grown into a recognised world leader in the international newsprint and paper industry. It has eight paper mills in six countries and is one of the world’s largest producers of publication paper to newspapers, magazines and advertising publications. In the last few years, the company has entered into several projects related to newsprint machine conversions, bioenergy and biocomposites.

Norske Skog commenced production in Albury in 1981. Annual production capacity is around 274,000 tonnes, representing about 60% of the newsprint and related grades used in Australia each year. The mill utilises up to 35% recycled fibre, produced in Australia’s first large-scale newsprint deinking plant. Commissioned in 1993, this facility recycles around 100,000 tonnes of old newspapers and magazines each year. The other source of fibre used at the mill is plantation radiata pine, drawing on the region’s comparative advantage as a radiata pine producer.

Norske Skog Paper Mills (Australia) Limited – Riverina Murray Region

Success Stories




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Freight, logistics and distribution services are the backbone of Regional NSW, connecting businesses to markets in Australia and across the world.

In 2014-15, the Regional NSW freight, logistics and distribution sector contributed A$4.9 billion to the state economy.18 A thriving population and growing industry presence is creating significant demand for investment in the sector. High volumes of commodities, manufactured goods, agriculture and wholesale items are currently moved around NSW. As Australia’s most populous state and the central jurisdiction along the eastern seaboard, volumes are expected to grow significantly in coming years.

A multi-modal network of transport infrastructure exists to support freight and logistics companies with good coverage in all regional areas. This network recently received a significant boost, with the Australian Government announcing the construction of the A$8.4 billion Inland Rail network to move freight between Australia’s other largest cities of Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. The route will include 1,047 kilometres of tracks in NSW, with Parkes operating as a major hub.19

18 The Freight, logistics and distribution sector consists of road, rail, water and air freight and passenger services, along with other delivery/courier and storage services. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products. 19 Transport for NSW, Inland Rail (30/06/2017) [www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/inland-rail].

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CHS Broadbent has a long history in ownership and operation of grain storage, handling, packing and logistics assets throughout Australia. They are widely recognised as a market leader by grain producers, marketers and customers.

The CHS Broadbent receival site in Moree is a registered logistics and export facility based in the heart of Northern NSW, promoted as Australia’s largest agricultural growing area. It is ideally located on the Gwydir Highway linking to several key transport routes including the Newell and Carnarvon Highways, and is capable of servicing large-scale truck freighting such as AB-Triple Road Trains.

Along with a significant CHS Broadbent investment, they were awarded NSW funding in 2016 to reinstate a section of railway line between Moree to Inverell, linking the Moree receival site with the main rail line servicing Moree. The investment has enhanced rail infrastructure and connectivity on the NSW regional rail network, and future Inland Rail complementing road investments to build an efficient freight transport network in Regional NSW. These investments will reduce supply chain costs for the region, increasing competitiveness and improving efficiency of the area’s transport logistic system.

CHS Broadbent is a fully integrated supply chain business with full access to export and domestic markets offering a range of services for grain growers, marketers and customers to maximise returns.

CHS Broadbent – New England and North West Region

Success Stories

Image source: NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet


2626

Increasing life expectancy and a growing population are driving demand for high quality health and aged care facilities in Regional NSW.

In 2014-15, the health and aged care sectors in Regional NSW contributed A$3.1 billion to the state economy.20 People over the age of 65 will represent 20% of the population by 2030, compared to 14% in 2006. Retirement villages, residential aged care facilities and associated services are in high demand across Regional NSW.

Migration to access aged care services and facilities presents investment opportunities in the sector in regional and rural areas of NSW. There is a current shortage of aged care places in a number of locations in Regional NSW, which will require further investment to meet the Australian Government’s target of 125 subsidised aged care places per 1000 people over 70 years of age by 2021-22.21

In 2016, regional providers had the lowest expenses per day on average. Regional providers have care-related staffing costs of around A$35 per consumer per day, compared with A$39 for metropolitan providers.22

The private sector is already playing a significant role in general health care in Regional NSW, with private medical hospitals and practitioners providing a large proportion of primary care services. Private practitioners are able to support hospital services in the public system, in addition to the private regional hospitals. The NSW Rural Health Plan: Towards 2021 notes the importance of partnerships between government and private providers to meet growing community needs.

20 The Health and aged care cluster consists of pathology and diagnostic imaging, residential and other health care services. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products. 21 Leading Age Services Australia, Aged Care Legislated Review (December 2016) [https://agedcare.health.gov.au/sites/g/files/ net1426/f/documents/12_2016/leading_age_services_australia.pdf]. 22 Ibid

27

Aurrum has five residential aged care facilities on the Central Coast. It is one of Australia’s leading residential aged care providers with a portfolio of over 1,000 operating and development places in New South Wales and Victoria.

Its operating model is built on a philosophy of delivering clinical care excellence to residents whilst offering premium quality accommodation, lifestyle and dining experiences.

When looking at greenfield sites, the Central Coast has proven more attractive than Sydney because development costs are lower.

According to Aurrum Central Coast management, staff always comment on the quality of life in the area, spending less time in cars getting to and from work and more time with family.

The city of Orange in the Central West is a centre of regional medical excellence, renowned for its broad range of specialist services and provision of medical care.

Orange is becoming the largest hub of medical and health expertise outside Sydney. The city currently has two hospitals, one public and one private, with plans for an additional hospital. The public hospital, Orange Health Service, is the largest rural health facility in Australia providing care to the city’s population of approximately 45,000 people, as well as residents from the broader western NSW region.

The city has strong knowledge networks with the University of Sydney’s School of Rural Health, the University of Newcastle’s Centre for Rural & Remote Mental Health, and a campus of Charles Sturt University. Across these institutions, a number of medical and science degrees are offered including physiotherapy, clinical and dental science. A number of private and not-for-profit providers deliver aged care and disability services across the region.

Plans to build a A$50 million medical precinct in Orange were announced in 2017. The investment includes a private hospital, GP super clinic, retail and allied health.

Aurrum – Central Coast Region

Orange Medical Precinct – Central West and Orana Region

Success Stories



2828

As the birthplace of BHP, Regional NSW has been a significant source of high-quality resources for over a century, with potential to serve industries of the future with lithium and other rare earth deposits.

In 2014-15, the mining and resources sector in Regional NSW contributed A$8.8 billion to the state economy.23 Coal, iron, steel, aluminium, gold, lead and copper are major exports. Excellent opportunities exist for the discovery of new reserves, particularly rare earth deposits, and for the development of existing resources, such as the Murray Basin’s world-class heavy mineral sands. Export demand remains high from Asia, particularly Japan, China and the Republic of Korea, with excellent future export potential through Australia’s Free Trade Agreements with major markets.

Regional NSW is home to highly efficient and productive mining techniques, operations and service providers. CMOC-Northparkes Mines, in the state’s Central West and Orana region, pioneered the highly innovative block caving method in 1997 and operated the world’s first automated underground block cave mine in 2015.

23 The mining cluster consists of a combination of mining, extraction, support and exploration services. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products.

29

Iluka is an international mineral sands resource company headquartered in Perth, Western Australia. With operations in Australia and Sierra Leone and a globally integrated marketing network, Iluka is involved in the exploration, project development, operations and marketing of mineral sands products. The company is the world’s largest producer of zircon and rutile, and is also a major producer of synthetic rutile (upgraded ilmenite).

Iluka’s Balranald development in the Murray Basin centres on two rutile-rich mineral sands deposits in Balranald and Nepean. The project has the potential for substantial rutile, zircon and associated ilmenite production.

In 2016, Iluka made a significant investment in trialling an innovative mineral sands mining technique at Balranald. The key potential benefits of this alternative, underground mining method are expected to include a lower capital-intensive development approach, phased production expansion and lower environmental impacts. Work continued in 2017 and a decision will be made on whether to proceed with a final field trial in 2018.

CMOC-Northparkes Mines (Northparkes) is a copper and gold mine, majority owned and operated by CMOC International with Sumitomo Metal Mining and Sumitomo Corporation as minority owners. Located 27 kilometres north west of Parkes, Northparkes has been operating since 1993.

Northparkes was the first mine in Australia to use the highly efficient block cave mining method in 1997. In 2006, Northparkes completed construction of a second block cave section and, in 2015, it completed installation of a highly automated equipment control system. It also operates a sub-level cave mining section, an ore processing plant, a tailing management facility, and transport, logistics and asset management services.

CMOC products are transported by road train and rail to Port Kembla where they are shipped principally to Japan and China.

Northparkes is also an agricultural producer of canola and wheat, with 8,684 ha of its 10,314 ha holdings in the Central West a commercial cropping operation.

Iluka – Far West Region

CMOC-Northparkes Mines – Central West and Orana Region

Success Stories


Professional and financial services

3030

NSW has the largest professional services industry in Australia. Broadband internet, lower costs and a skilled workforce position Regional NSW for further investment in this sector.

In 2014-15, the professional services and finance sector in Regional NSW contributed A$15.4 billion to the state economy.24 Services comprise 88% of NSW’s industry output, highlighting the strength of its knowledge-based economy centring on banking, insurance and finance, information and communications technology (ICT), legal, accounting and engineering. The state has six international fibre-optic cable networks linking Australia with the United States, Europe and Asia.

Regional NSW benefits from proximity to Sydney and its deep professional services industry, while offering lower operating costs, access to skilled and stable labour, and outstanding quality of life for employees. Investment in digital connectivity and emerging sector clusters in centres such as Wollongong, have encouraged large companies like NEC to locate professional services operations in Regional NSW.

NSW is home to over 60% of the FinTech startups in Australia, and the sector is growing rapidly.

24 The professional services cluster consists of a combination of banking, insurance, financial, real estate, legal, accounting and other professional services. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products.

31

NEC Australia, a leading international ICT solutions and services firm, established a new corporate office in Wollongong in 2016, employing 180 people. The new office is the centrepiece of a A$40 million investment in the region and will support major customers of NEC across Australia.

Located at the heart of University of Wollongong’s (UOW’s) 33-hectare Innovation Campus precinct, the corporate office allows NEC Australia to harness new opportunities to collaborate with world-class researchers at the UOW Innovation Campus specialising in fields that align with NEC’s global focus on technologies and solutions.

NEC Australia will also support the UOW Innovation Campus’ ambition to find solutions that address Australia’s current and future challenges in managing an ageing population, coping with industrial transformation and sustaining coastal environments.

ICT International is an innovative Armidale company making a significant impact on domestic and global markets. Established in 1982, the company has conducted research and development of innovative digital sensors and data loggers to measure soil and plant water use. ICT International’s instruments are used by environmental scientists and farmers to measure and solve the ever-increasing problems of limited water resources.

The company has developed two unique world-class scientific instruments, manufactured in Armidale, which are now being regularly exported to commercial enterprises, science agencies and leading universities in over 50 countries. ICT International was awarded three NSW State Awards for innovation and export excellence in 2013.

ICT International is collaborating with the University of New England (UNE) at its test site for new technologies known as the SMART farm. It provides access to the latest data-streaming technology from a range of field, animal and machinery sensors.

NEC – Illawarra-Shoalhaven Region

ICT International – New England and North West Region

Success Stories

Image source: Advantage Wollongong

Renewable energy

Image source: Goldwind Australia

3232

Supported by Government and backed by demand, Regional NSW has optimal conditions for wind, hydro and solar energy generation, and a network of high-voltage transmission lines to support further investment.

The NSW and neighbouring ACT governments have set policy targets to incentivise renewable energy investment. NSW has a net zero carbon emissions target by 2050, while the ACT has a renewable energy target of 100% by 2020. Considerable investment into renewable energy generation is required to meet these targets. International investments from China, the UK and other European clean energy companies have already occurred.

In 2014-15 the energy sector in Regional NSW contributed A$4.6 billion to the state economy, of which renewables is a growing proportion.25

One of the world’s largest solar projects is located at Nyngan which delivers 102 megawatts, capable of powering 39,000 homes. In the South East and Tablelands, NSW’s largest wind energy generator, Gullen Range Wind Farm, produces 165.5 megawatts, while the world’s largest bioreactor landfill project, Woodlawn Bioreactor, produces 24 megawatts.

Supporting and working in close collaboration with the industry are several leading research and development facilities throughout Regional NSW. The South East Region of Renewable Energy Excellence (SERREE) is an industry cluster near Canberra and is supported by NSW, ACT and Australian governments to support performance improvements across all major renewable energy sources.

25 The renewable energy cluster consists of electricity generation, transmission and distribution, along with gas supply and the market sale of electricity. This Investment Prospectus uses gross value added (GVA) measures to describe contributions made by priority sectors and regions to the broader state economy. GVA measures the contribution of each individual producer, industry or sector to the NSW state economy. GVA is linked as a measurement to gross domestic product (GDP) as both are measures of output. Specifically, GDP includes GVA plus taxes on products, less subsidies on products.

33

AGL Energy, Australia’s largest Australian-listed investor in renewable energy, developed two large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) power plants in conjunction with the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and the NSW Government, which began operating in 2016. Together the plants are currently Australia’s largest utility-scale solar PV power plants and are located in western NSW.

The Broken Hill solar plant has a capacity of 53 megawatts, producing enough electricity annually to meet the needs of around 20,000 Australian homes. The solar plant in Nyngan has a capacity of 102 megawatts, enough to power 39,000 homes. ARENA provided A$166.7 million in funding and the NSW Government provided A$64.9 million.

The Far West is an ideal location for future solar power developments with one of the highest levels of solar radiation in NSW. The presence of nearby mines and the Broken Hill township ensures reliable energy demand. The Broken Hill solar plant has an efficient connection into the electrical grid through an existing substation located near the plant. At the time of its construction, the Nyngan plant was the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. The plants were sold in November 2016 to the Powering Australian Renewables Fund (PARF), a joint initiative between AGL and QIC (on behalf of its clients) to develop utility scale renewable energy assets in Australia.

Goldwind Australia and China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group (CECEP) are building the White Rock Wind Farm near Glen Innes, with an estimated investment of over A$400 million. The project comprises up to 119 approved wind turbines, with 70 turbines built in the first stage along with the related civil and electrical infrastructure. At 2.5 megawatts per turbine, the first 70 turbines will generate 175 megawatts, enough to power 75,000 homes. The first stage injected an estimated A$30-A$40 million into the local economy. Completion and commissioning of the first 70 turbines is expected in early 2018.

The co-located 20 megawatt solar farm represents an additional A$41.4 million investment. By sharing infrastructure with the wind farm, the solar farm is expected to unlock co-location savings of over A$5 million.

Broken Hill and Nyngan Solar Plants – Far West Region

White Rock Wind and Solar Farm project – New England and North West Region

Success Stories

Image source: Goldwind Australia

Tourism

Image source: Destination NSW

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Regional NSW tourism has grown steadily in the last decade as visitors are drawn to the region’s diverse natural beauty, country hospitality and excellent food and wine.

Regional NSW tourism overnight expenditure was A$12.12 billion in the 12 months to September 2017. The number of visitors to Regional NSW grew by 28.1% from September 2012 to September 2017 or 5.1% per year in compound annual growth terms.26 Rural and regional NSW welcomed 832,000 international visitors in the year leading up to September 2017 for a total of 15.3 million nights and A$1.1 billion of expenditure.27

More people visit NSW than any other state or territory in Australia. Visitors are drawn to the vibrant city of Sydney, the region’s natural landscapes, and famous food and wine. Visitors are increasingly seeking opportunities to experience NSW’s unique Aboriginal culture and history. No other Australian state offers outback, country, alpine, coastal, island and subtropical regions all within its borders.

Regional NSW has excellent tourism infrastructure and facilities, with the potential for further investment in hotel accommodation, transport and tourism services. Cruise ship visits are growing, supported by related investment in the ports of Newcastle and Eden, leading to higher revenue and increased passenger and crew days.

26 Source: Tourism Research Australia International Visitor Survey, year ending September 2017 27 Ibid

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TripADeal was founded in 2011 in Byron Bay as an innovative online travel company and is now a recognised industry leader, winning Australia’s Best Online Travel Agency in 2017. TripADeal’s average revenue grew 400% over three years to top the Australian Financial Review’s Fast 100 list. TripADeal are about to double their staff after concluding a deal with the Travellers’ Choice Travel Agency Network and the establishment of a new wholesale division.

Co-Founder Norm Black credits “being inside the Byron bubble” as allowing TripADeal to “do it our way and not be influenced by the mainstream. If we had been in Sydney or one of the other capital cities we would have just been on the same train tracks as everyone else. In Byron we were out of sight and out of mind from potential competitors, allowing us to rise up and get our head above the water before we were targeted by the big corporates.”

Thredbo Alpine Resort is Australia’s premier ski and alpine village resort. Thredbo Alpine Resort is managed by the Event, Hospitality and Entertainment Group, established in 1910 and now operating in Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the United Kingdom. When the mountain is fully covered by snow, Thredbo has the longest ski runs in Australia.

In summer, Thredbo’s location in the Kosciuszko National Park makes it a popular summer sport destination, including hiking, rock climbing and abseiling, fishing and gravity mountain biking. It hosts an annual blues music festival and mountain bike events, and has a busy conference and wedding schedule, providing year-round tourist visits for the range of accommodation, retail, outdoor activity, and hospitality businesses operating from Thredbo village and Jindabyne township.

Nearby Lake Jindabyne offers a range of water activities including canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing. There is scope to attract an increased array of water-based sports to the region.

TripADeal – North Coast Region

Thredbo Ski and Alpine Resort – South East and Tablelands Region

Success Stories

Image source: Amber Hooper Photography

3636

0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140

China

Germany

United States of America

New Zealand

United Kingdom

Visitors (000)

S ourc e: D estination N S W 20 17, R eg ional T ourism S tatis tic s , T ravel to R eg ional N S W T im e S eries J une 20 17. A vailable at: http :/ / w w w .d estinationnsw .c om .au/ w p- sontent / upload s/ 20 14 / 0 4 / R eg ional- N S W - C om bined - T im e- S eries- O v ernig ht-D ay trips-J un- 17.pd f

To p 5 inte rna t io na l to ur is m s o urc e m a rk e ts to R e g io na l N S WTop 5 International tourism source markets to Regional NSW

Courtesy of photographer Jeremy Piper 5 Lands Walk on the Central Coast

Source: Tourism Research Australia International Visitor Survey, year ending September 2017

International Airports

Ports

Gosford Sydney

WollongongCanberra

Broken Hill

Dubbo

Newcastle

Wagga Wagga

Tamworth

Port Macquarie

Eden

Tweed Heads

37

NSW Regions and investment opportunitiesDoing business in Regional NSW offers a strategic location that can leverage off Sydney with connectivity to domestic and international markets. Each region offers its own unique economic opportunities.

3838

Sydney

Central CoastThe Central Coast’s prime location close to Sydney has attracted international food processing, transport and logistics companies plus a skilled, mobile workforce attracted to the coastal lifestyle.

Key sectors of investment opportunity

to the NSW economy, with a population of 335,000

attracted by the strategic and cost-competitive location

of which around 16% commute to Sydney and Newcastle, and a growing population. Over 51% of residents are tertiary educated, of which 21% have a science, technology, engineering or mathematics qualification

to the major markets of Sydney and Newcastle

in a coastal environment, with excellent health and education services

due to an ageing population, together with available land and the Central Coast’s idyllic lifestyle and climate

home to global food processors including Sanitarium, MasterFoods (Mars Food) and McCain, with easy access to producers and large domestic and international markets

Contributes A$8.6 billion

Over 21,000 businesses

Skilled and mobile labour force

Just over one hour

High quality of living

Excellent investment opportunities in aged care facilities and services

Investment track record



Professional services and ICT


39

Sydney

Central West and OranaCentral West and Orana is the second largest region in NSW, with major agribusiness and mining production and growing tourism, food and wine industries.


to the NSW economy, with 25% from mining and a further 14% from agribusiness. Home to over 27,000 businesses

of coal, gold, copper and high-grade nickel, cobalt and lithium

including multinationals Nestle Purina, Mars Petcare and Simplot, to niche producers of artisanal food. The region’s climate enables production of diverse food and beverage products

supporting value-added food manufacturing and contributing 14% of total NSW agricultural production

spent A$1.3 billion in the region in 2016-17; emerging strengths in ecotourism, gastronomy and wine

in rail construction and maintenance

in Orange, including Macquarie Bank’s Paraway Pastoral Co., Rural Assistance Authority, NSW Department of Primary Industries and the Australian government’s new Regional Investment Corporation

Contributes over A$14.5 billion

Significant mineral deposits

Track record of successful agribusinesses

Strong and diverse agribusiness sector

5.5 million tourists

Developing opportunities

Regional agri-finance hub




Tourism

4040

Sydney

Far WestThe Far West is NSW’s largest geographic region and leader in mining, with expanding agribusiness, renewable energy and tourism opportunities, complemented by its unique Aboriginal culture.


to the NSW economy, with 23% from mining and a further 18% from agribusiness

supporting value-added food manufacturing with significant opportunities in production and processing of livestock, particularly goat meat, broad acre cropping including cotton, grains and oil seeds, grazing, horticulture (fruit and vegetables) and floriculture

particularly solar and wind, offers significant potential. Two large-scale solar projects are located at Nyngan and Broken Hill

birthplace of BHP, rich in zinc, lead, silver and mineral sands

by air, road and rail to NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and international markets

including indigenous tourism

Contributes over A$2 billion

Diversifying agricultural sector

Renewable energy

Historical centre of Australian mining

Strategically located and connected

Growing tourism opportunities

Renewable energy



Tourism

Far West

Central West and Orana

Central Coast

Broken Hill City Council Living Desert Sculptures, Broken Hill

Evolving Images; Destination NSW Hot air ballooning in Canowindra at sunrise

41

RA Stanley Landscape Photography Sun rises over the horizon at Killcare Beach, Killcare

42

HunterThe Hunter region is the largest regional economy in Australia and home to Greater Newcastle, the seventh largest urban area in the country.


to the NSW economy, with mining, manufacturing, health and social services comprising a third. The Hunter has a population of over 726,500

through the Port of Newcastle

centred on the University of Newcastle and Hunter Innovation Network, and two Australian Defence Force bases, RAAF Willamtown and the Singleton Military Area. A strong and growing local defence and aerospace industry includes global companies Boeing, BAE Systems, Thales, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon

and transformation of Newcastle into a global ‘smart city’. The rollout of Australia’s most sophisticated ‘Internet of Things’ platform across Newcastle CBD facilitates future expansion

Australia’s oldest wine region supported by investment in Newcastle cruise terminal and Newcastle airport

Contributes over A$32.3 billion

Connected to major shipping ports

Strong local defence, education and advanced manufacturing industries

Largest economy in Regional NSW

Recognised wine, food and tourism Defence and aerospace

Education and innovation


Tourism

Sydney

4343

Defence



Illawarra-ShoalhavenThe Illawarra-Shoalhaven economy is driven by advanced manufacturing and knowledge-intensive businesses. The region includes Australia’s 10th largest city of Wollongong and is the home of naval aviation, HMAS Albatross.


to the NSW economy, supporting over 23,100 businesses

supported by competitive rents, wages and retention rates, an experienced supply chain and ancillary services, and a large, highly skilled, multilingual workforce

centred on the University of Wollongong and its Innovation Campus with a strong footprint in key sectors including shared services, ICT and financial services, with some of the lowest reported staff turnover rates in Australia, averaging less than 5%

offering a competitive geographical and infrastructure base for businesses to benefit from global and domestic markets

sector includes significant industrial, chemicals, mining, construction, textiles, and food and beverage manufacturing. Companies leverage the University of Wollongong’s expertise in advanced processes and technology to compete on a domestic and international scale

sector at Shoalhaven, anchored by the home of Australian naval aviation at HMAS Albatross and the Albatross Aviation Technology Park (AATP), both in Nowra. Global prime contractors are established at the AATP, servicing HMAS Albatross and the national defence sector


Strong business environment

Sophisticated and well-developed innovation ecosystem

Strategically located 70 minutes south of Sydney

Diverse advanced manufacturing

Strong Naval Defence

Education and innovation

Sydney

44

New England and North WestNew England and North West is a premium agribusiness economy with emerging renewable energy and services sectors, easily accessible to Sydney and South East Queensland.


to the NSW economy, supporting over 20,200 businesses

in Armidale is backed by the NSW Government and underpinned by the University of New England

sector, leveraging the region’s strategic location halfway between Sydney and Brisbane on key road and rail transport routes. Port of Newcastle is a major export port for the region’s agricultural goods

producing nearly a fifth of NSW’s gross value of crops and 6% of livestock products, responding to growing demand in Asian markets

is supporting further renewables investment. Sapphire Wind Farm will be NSW’s largest wind farm once operational in 2018, at 270 megawatts comprising 75 turbines able to power 110,000 homes

Contributes over A$7 billion

New England Agtech Cluster

Important logistics and warehousing

An agricultural powerhouse

Established solar and wind energy infrastructure

Renewable energy


Transport, logistics and distribution

Tourism

Sydney

New England and North West

Illawarra-Shoalhaven

Hunter

45

Destination NSW Morning sun rising over the local post office on Peel St, Tamworth

Dee Kramer Photography Aerial of a car taking the scenic route over Sea Cliff Bridge, Clifton

NSW Department of Premier and CabinetAudrey Wilkinson Outlook, Pokolbin

4646

Tourism



North Coast North Coast’s diverse economy is strong in tourism, manufacturing, services, tech industries and agribusiness, leveraging its proximity to Queensland, Brisbane and Sydney while boasting some of Australia’s best beaches.


to the NSW economy, with more than 40,000 businesses

of manufactured products. The manufacturing sector accounts for the majority of the region’s exports, supported by a skilled workforce and an established presence in metal, transport (including aviation and marine applications) and timber products

have capitalised on the region’s higher education and ICT investments to grow within a supportive and highly liveable environment

with 12.7 million visitors in the year ending September 2017

including Byron Bay and Coffs Harbour, and some of the state’s most important environmental and cultural heritage sites. The most popular tourist destination in Regional NSW by number of visitors with potential for further investment

with fruit and nut production accounting for 30% of NSW production by value


A significant exporter

Emerging creative and digital businesses

Key tourist destination

Nationally recognised tourist attractions

Growing horticulture industry


Sydney

47

Sydney


Riverina MurrayRiverina Murray is one of Australia’s main food producing and agribusiness regions, home to a developing AgTech cluster, with additional strengths in manufacturing, forestry, tourism and defence.


to the NSW economy, supporting 27,000 businesses

continues to be a major growth area, driven by strong demand in Asia

and proximity to Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and Sydney

provides opportunities across the region, particularly near Albury supporting the region’s large defence presence

with significant 165,000 hectares of softwood production and growing demand for materials

it makes the largest regional contribution to agricultural production in NSW, gross value of A$3.8 billion

with research and development expertise in grain, livestock, olive oil and wine production, partnering closely with industry to innovate and add value to global food value chains


Agribusiness

Well serviced by transport infrastructure


Hub for the state’s forestry industry

Known as the ‘food bowl of NSW’

Recognised AgTech cluster in Wagga Wagga

Forestry


Transport, logistics and distribution

4848

Tourism


South East and Tablelands South East and Tablelands is NSW’s renewable energy powerhouse with growing alpine, marine and cruise ship tourism, agribusiness and aquaculture investment opportunities.


to the NSW economy, home to over 25,000 businessesContributes A$8.6 billion

home to the world’s largest bioreactor landfill project. The South East Region of Renewable Energy Excellence (SERREE) industry cluster works with industry to develop renewable energy, with strong business and global ties

Renewable energy hub

drawn to the famous Snowy Mountains ski fields, hiking, whale watching, food and wine attractions, with increasing cruise ship visits through the Port of Eden

producing 38% of NSW cherries and 25% of NSW oysters. The region is the third largest producer of dairy products (A$95 million) and wool (A$157 million)

with close proximity to Canberra International Airport and the Port of Eden

Growing tourism

Diverse agribusiness and aquaculture

Well connected to international markets

Renewable energy


Sydney

Destination NSW Sun sets over the Yass River

Destination NSW Sun setting over the countryside in Deniliquin in the state’s Riverina Murray Region

Destination NSW Man enjoying a morning swim as the sun rises over the pier at Jetty Beach, Coffs Harbour

49

South East and Tablelands

Riverina Murray

North Coast

5050

Contacts

MARGARET O’DWYERRegional Director for Riverina Murray

NATALIE FORSYTH-STOCKRegional Director for Central West and Orana, and Far West

NIGEL MCKINNONRegional Director for Illawarra-Shoalhaven, South East and Tablelands

TONY SANSOM OAMRegional Director for Hunter and Central Coast

IAN SMITHNSW Director of Regional Operations

LOUISE MCMEEKINGRegional Director for North Coast, New England and North West

For more information, you can reach out to any of the Regional Directors

at +61 1300 679 673 or email us at [email protected]


San Francisco

MumbaiAbu Dhabi

London

Kuala LumpurSingapore

Jakarta

Sydney

Tokyo

SeoulShanghai

Guangzhou

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International network

NSW Trade and Investment international office locations

The NSW Government provides assistance to international investors and NSW exporters through its international network in 10 priority markets and six regional NSW locations.

For more information, contact one of our overseas investment specialists on the Invest in Regional NSW website www.investregional.nsw.gov.au

5252

Copyright © Crown in right of NSW through the Department of Premier and Cabinet 2018.

This publication is copyright. Other than for the purposes of and subject to the conditions prescribed under the Copyright Act, no part of it may, in any form or by any means, be reproduced, altered, manipulated, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted without prior written consent of the copyright owner. Any inquiries relating to consents and use of this publication, including by NSW Government agencies must be addressed to Regional NSW, Office of Regional Development, Department of Premier and Cabinet.

Disclaimer The Crown in right of the State of New South Wales acting through the Department of Premier and Cabinet (Department) does not guarantee or warrant, and accepts no legal liability whatsoever arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any material contained in this publication.

Information in this publication is provided as general information only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from a qualified professional. The Department recommends that users exercise care and use their own skill and judgment in using information from this publication and that users carefully evaluate the accuracy, currency, completeness and relevance of such information. Users should take steps to independently verify the information in this publication and, where appropriate, seek professional advice.

Nothing in this publication should be taken to indicate the Department’s or the NSW Government’s commitment to a particular course of action.

Enquiries Enquiries relating to this publication or use of material in this publication should be directed to: Regional NSW, Office of Regional Development

E : [email protected] W : www.investregional.nsw.gov.au T : +61 1300 679 673

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Inside back cover image source: NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet

Back cover image source: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

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