The Property Council has launched an innovative campaign to fuel a whole-of-community conversation with Sunshine Coasters about the future of their cities and what ‘smart growth’ could bring to the region.
Sunshine Coasters are passionate about their cities and this campaign is about giving them a voice that leaders at all levels of government can hear, according to Queensland Executive Director of the Property Council of Australia, Kathy Mac Dermott.
The Connecting the Sunshine Coast campaign is part of the Property Council of Australia’s nationwide Make My City Work initiative.
“The Sunshine Coast is at a pivotal point, with once in a lifetime opportunities set to transform the region,” Ms Mac Dermott says.
“Major projects such as the airport expansion, Sunshine Coast University Hospital and Maroochydore CBD provide the foundations for a major boost in employment and economic development prospects.”
“The community must be part of the conversation on how to make the most of these opportunities, while not detracting from the enviable Sunshine Coast lifestyle, with its beautiful beaches, pristine national parks, and a fantastic climate.”
“As the region grows, we need to make sure there are the jobs, housing and infrastructure to cater for an increasing population.”
According to Peter Bolton-Hall, Chair of the Property Council’s Sunshine Coast Committee, the Global Financial Crisis and its flow on effects have had a huge impact on the Sunshine Coast property and construction sector, which along with the faltering tourism industry, accounts for the majority of jobs on the Coast.
“To make the most of the planned projects and create more jobs for locals, the region needs to diversify and attract new investment,” Mr Bolton-Hall says.
“The airport expansion creates an opportunity to attract further investment and businesses from within Australia and internationally, while the health hub opens the door to becoming a centre of excellence for health and medical research.”
Make My Sunshine Coast Work asks the community for their ideas to help shape the future of the Sunshine Coast, with a particular focus on connections- connecting the region to other cities, connecting the region’s major population hubs, and connecting major projects to employment opportunities for locals.
Visit the campaign hub at www.makemycitywork.org.au/sunshinecoast to find out more about the campaign and to sign up for action.
ENDS
Media Enquiries: Kathy Mac Dermott – Property Council of Australia Queensland Executive Director – 0427 243 986
