The SRV would seek to raise significant funds to be used to invest heavily in local communities, delivering rejuvenated town centres, major new infrastructure, increased services and new facilities.

Mayor Ryan Palmer says Council has been listening closely to what the community wants and is now exploring a number of funding options to deliver vital infrastructure for all to enjoy:

“The Port Stephens area has continued to grow, as have community’s expectations and demands.”

“Port Stephens is a place people want to live, work and play, but with that comes an increased need for Council to deliver enhanced services, infrastructure and facilities to our community.”

“Council is continuing to explore funding options by applying for grant funding from all tiers of government, lobbying the NSW Government and Opposition for more funding and consulting the community on an application for a potential special rate variation.”

“Tonight we agreed to take the first step in the process of seeking feedback on a potential application for what a special rate variation might look like.”

“We have nearly 20 community engagement activities planned over the coming months including community meetings, information sessions and formal feedback activities. We’re going out to the community to listen; and I strongly encourage all of the community to take part in these activities.”

“This is an exciting time, we have a unique opportunity to deliver for Port Stephens on a scale that’s not been seen before – the projects we are proposing will deliver local jobs, stimulate our local economy, encourage business growth and enhance our town centres which benefit all within our community,” Mayor Palmer said.

Port Stephens residents will receive direct communications in July regarding the application for a special rate variation, with community engagement activities commencing in late July.