Central Coast Council will consider an ambitious Population Growth Policy next Monday at its December Council Meeting.
The policy contains three measurable goals:
- Higher population growth: A population growth target of at least 3000 new residents
by 2044 (an average of 150 people per year for 20 years). - A younger age demographic: Lower the average age of residents by 8 years, by 2053.
- Improved educational attainment: Increase the percentage of residents who have a tertiary qualification by 10%, by 2053 (“Tertiary qualification” refers to any training in beyond secondary school, including traineeships, apprenticeships and university study).
According to the Australian Bureaus of Statistics (ABS), in 2023 the population of Central Coast was 23,330 people, an increase of around 2,090 people since 2001. While the municipality experienced a spike in population around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ABS estimates that the population has now stabilised. Research recently undertaken by Council shows that without any intervention, our population will soon decline and continue to age.
Council’s Acting CEO, Daryl Connelly, said that the policy is an important piece of work which if approved at the meeting, will provide Council with a road map for ensuring Central Coast remains prosperous and vibrant.
“Many regional places around the world have experienced population decline as birthrates have fallen and younger residents have gravitated towards larger cities. Unfortunately, this is often followed by business closures and a reduction in the availability of healthcare and other essential services. Our Council is determined not to let that happen to Central Coast, and I am pleased that Councillors asked staff to plan for ambitious but achievable population growth, without compromising the unique character of our towns and villages.” said Mr Connelly.
In addition to the population goals, which the draft policy says will be monitored and publicly reported against annually, the document details how the goals could be achieved through a suite of related initiatives.
These include:
- A national and international marketing campaign aimed at encouraging people to live and invest in Central Coast.
- Working with Penguin and Ulverstone retailers, to ensure our CBDs remain appealing.
- Developing a tourism strategy that builds on our existing strengths of mountain biking
and agritourism. - Ensuring that older residents have good access to healthcare and strong social connections.
- Making sure younger residents are engaged in shaping the future and have exciting jobs available to aspire to.
Further details regarding Council’s proposed Population Growth Policy are available on page 38 of the Council’s December meeting agenda.