The highly-anticipated high-speed rail project was front and centre of a recent A Future Made in Newcastle forum.
Community leaders, workers, industry representatives, businesses and residents met at the University of Newcastle’s (UoN) Conservatorium of Music to explore what the multi-billion-dollar venture could mean for the region.
The event also offered a chance to discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by the connection between Newcastle and Sydney.
In February, following the release of the business case by the High-Speed Rail Authority (HSRA), the Commonwealth committed $659.6 million over two years to begin the development phase of the historic undertaking.
The detailed planning work will prepare the project to be “construction ready”, including design, environmental approvals, corridor protection and cost finalisation.
And, if delivered, travel times from Newcastle to Sydney would be cut to about one hour, with the Central Coast just 30 minutes from either city.
The forum contained a keynote presentation from Graham Nelmes of the HSRA, who outlined the work already underway to progress the venture and the long-term potential for centres like Newcastle.
A panel discussion featuring Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes, Committee for the Hunter CEO Alice Thompson and Institute for Regional Futures executive director Laura Eadie explored how high-speed rail could reshape the region’s economy, support housing growth, improve connectivity and create new prospects for local jobs, education and investment.
Attendees heard how Newcastle is uniquely positioned to benefit from major nation-building infrastructure, too, with the city already emerging as a centre for advanced manufacturing, clean energy, defence, education and innovation.
“Newcastle will be the birthplace of high-speed rail in Australia,” A Future Made in Newcastle host and local federal member Sharon Claydon said.
“This forum was about making sure our community is helping shape what that looks like moving forward.
“High-speed rail has the potential to be transformational for regional cities like Newcastle, not just in how people travel, but in the jobs, investment and opportunities it could unlock.
“It was fantastic to see such strong community engagement and hear directly from people who care deeply about Newcastle’s future.
“A Future Made in Newcastle is about bringing everyone together to think ambitiously about our city and ensure we are ready to seize the opportunities ahead.”
The strong turn out reflected growing public interest in how Newcastle continues to evolve as one of Australia’s most dynamic regional cities and the important role infrastructure investment will play in shaping that as well.
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