A STATE Government grant of $995,330 will enable the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation (MNCJO) to develop a comprehensive Five-Year Transition Action Plan to help local small businesses and communities thrive alongside the creation of the Great Koala National Park.
Funded through the Government’s broader $6 million regional support package, the plan will map out strategic pathways for nature-based tourism, local job creation, small business support and First Nations economic opportunities, as well as educational and upskilling programs for local workers.
The MNCJO, representing the Bellingen, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Port Macquarie-Hastings, and Nambucca councils, will drive the plan in close partnership with local business chambers, First Nations organisations, and regional tourism bodies.
It will employ a dedicated Regional Transition Officer for up to four years to help develop and roll out the plan, which is expected to be finalised by mid-2027.
MNCJO Chair, Cr Steve Allan said, “This funding gives our region the opportunity to lead the conversation about what the future looks like for our communities, businesses and workers.
“We recognise that the establishment of the Great Koala National Park brings both opportunities and challenges, and it’s important that local voices help shape the path forward.
“Through this transition plan, we’ll work closely with our communities, local businesses, industry and Traditional
Owners to understand the impacts, identify opportunities and ensure all [members of the] community are involved in
the best path forward.
“This is about creating a practical, locally informed plan that supports our regional economy while building on the unique natural assets that make the Mid North Coast such a special place.”
City of Coffs Harbour Mayor, Nikki Williams, said, “I welcome the NSW Government’s $1 million commitment, which will allow the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation to develop a five-year transition action plan.
“Most importantly, this gives us the opportunity to put local knowledge at the centre of the process, with affected workers, jobs and communities front and centre.
“We need to properly understand the impacts and make sure the right support, training, investment and future employment pathways are in place.
“At the same time, we need to identify and make the most of the opportunities the park may create for our region, including in tourism, small business, skills and new industries.
“This is about ensuring the transition is locally informed, practical and focused on both supporting our people and building a strong economic future.”
Minister for the North Coast and Minister for Small Business Janelle Saffin announced the grant in Coffs Harbour on 30 July.
She said, “The Great Koala National Park is a landmark win for conservation, but it’s also a generational
economic opportunity to boost local tourism, grow small businesses, and create lasting jobs right across the Mid North Coast.
“By backing the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation with nearly $1 million, we are putting local expertise at the wheel, so a community-led transition action plan gives our regional industries and small businesses confidence that their voices are being heard.”
By Andrew VIVIAN
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