Hunter Valley businesses are being urged to “be at the forefront” of a new era of housing construction.
It follows the NSW Government’s recent launch of an Expression of Interest (EOI) process for Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) manufacturing facilities.
Property Council Hunter and Central Coast regional director Stephen Crowe said the initiative presented a significant opportunity for the region to build on its industrial strengths.
“The Hunter has spent generations building the infrastructure, energy and materials that have powered the state’s economy,” he explained.
“Modern construction gives us a chance to apply that same expertise to one of NSW’s biggest challenges – delivering more homes, faster.”
The state government is seeking industry proposals to establish or expand large-scale facilities capable of manufacturing prefabricated building components and modular housing solutions for residential development.
Mr Crowe admitted the Hunter’s combination of manufacturing capability, industrial land, logistics infrastructure and skilled workers made it an ideal location for future MMC investment.
“As our economy continues to evolve, we should be looking for opportunities to build on what the region already does well,” he said.
“We have the workforce, we have the industrial know-how and we have the transport infrastructure needed to support advanced manufacturing at scale.”
Mr Crowe said the Port of Newcastle could play a prominent role in supporting the sector’s growth.
“It’s already diversifying its operations and positioning itself for the industries of the future,” he stated.
“Modern construction and modular housing manufacturing align naturally with that broader diversification.
“We have a genuine chance to establish supply chains that bring materials into the region, support local manufacturing and distribute finished products across NSW and beyond.”
Mr Crowe said MMC had the potential to improve productivity and help address housing supply constraints while creating new regional economic opportunities.
“It can reduce construction timeframes, improve productivity and provide greater certainty around delivery, all of which are critical if we’re going to meet long-term housing targets,” he stated.
“The Hunter has always adapted and evolved.
“This is another opportunity for local businesses to be part of the region’s next chapter… and help shape how homes are built across NSW.”
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