The Lismore Prospectus

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS

A

G U I D E

to p r ivat e an d publ ic secto r invest ment in the hea rt o f the Nort her n Rivers Regio n o f NS W

M A Y OR ' S

M E SS A G E

Welcome to The Lismore Prospectus This document is intended to provide a comprehensive introduction to the heart of the Northern Rivers and to list the opportunities for private and public sector investment in our vibrant city.

Lismore’s status as a regional hub is the result of the breadth of services and range of institutions we host. Sectors such as health, education, justice, professional services, retail, sport and recreation, trades, industry, tourism and the arts are all strongly represented in Lismore. The strategic alliances between many of these sectors add to our record of development and growth. Combined, they add to Lismore’s attractiveness as a place to invest, work, study and live.

Before producing the Lismore Prospectus we agreed that it was important to feature one of our greatest strengths – the people who make the city ‘tick’ and who have achieved success in their respective fields. We’ve shone a light on a sample selection of individuals who contribute to the overall dynamism of Lismore and their individual stories occur throughout the document. We describe them as 'Lismore advocates' and their belief in the city's prospects for growth is immediately apparent.

Although produced by Council, the Lismore Prospectus is a reflection of the myriad positive partnerships we have with organisations and individuals in our community - thank you to everyone who has contributed.

I welcome your interest in any specific aspect of the Prospectus and subsequent contact with relevant Council staff.

Warmest regards

About the Lismore Prospectus This document is an informal guide to private and public sector investment in the heart of the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales and is based on Council and other governmental reports and policy documents, which can be accessed at www.lismore.nsw.gov.au.

The are two main documents which underpin the content and scope of the prospectus. The Lismore Growth Management Strategy 2015-2035 which has been adopted by Council and relevant planning authorities, shows clearly the approach to future growth in the entire Lismore Local Government Area.

The Imagine Lismore 10 Year Plan 2013-2023 has arisen from the most extensive consultation process ever undertaken by Council and reflects the wishes of the local community for Lismore’s future direction within specific areas: economy, community, environment, sport, youth and the arts.

Strategies arising from the Imagine Lismore process inform all Council policies and decision-making.

Contents • Mayor's message and prospectus overview

Page 3

• Key investment offers at a glance

Page 4

• Maps: Factors for growth at a glance

Page 5

• Section 1: About Lismore Page 6 • Section 2: Private Sector investment

Page 18

• Section 3: Public Sector funding

Page 24

• Section 4: Council assistance

Page 31

Contact Cr Jenny Dowell Mayor of Lismore

For further information on any aspect of investing or doing business in Lismore please contact:

Mark Batten Manager Economic Development Lismore City Council PO Box 23A, Lismore NSW 2480 43 Oliver Avenue, Goonellabah T: +61 2 6625 0458 M: 0427 003 645 mark.batten@lismore.nsw.gov.au

www.lismore.nsw.gov.au

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS AT A G L A NC E KEY

KEY

KEY

REGIONAL STRATEGIC ADVANTAGES

INVESTMENT OFFERS – PRIVATE SECTOR

INVESTMENT OFFERS – PUBLIC SECTOR

• Business centre of the Northern Rivers

• Medi-hotel in the proposed medium density zone of the health precinct

• Lismore Quadrangle project – relocation of the Lismore Regional Gallery

• Serviced apartments for professional staff (health, justice, and financial sector)

• Lismore Park – major passive recreation area

• Stable and highly skilled workforce • Vibrant CBD with largest retail sector in the region • Proactive and businessfriendly Council • Health Precinct growth corridor • Professional Services (finance, justice and health) • Rural residential lifestyle housing • Higher Education – Southern Cross University University Centre for Rural Health • Centre of excellence for the Creative Arts • Sporting capital of the Far North Coast • Air/road links and proximity to South East Queensland

• ‘ A’ grade office space in CBD for regional professional services and Council relocation

• Infrastructure projects, including new link road, bridges and sewage pump stations

• Medium density housing in health precinct growth corridor

• Oakes Oval and Crozier field – major upgrades to football and cricket facilities

• Establishment of large lot transport hub in South Lismore

• Albert Park baseball complex development

• Bulky goods retail in southern growth corridor

• Hepburn Park hockey fields upgrade

• Residential greenfield land development

• Parks, walkways and cycleways improvements

• Secondary dwellings and modular construction (especially 1 to 2 bedrooms)

• Weatherproofing CBD car parks (with option for solar)

• Greater CBD retail expansion opportunities

• Equipping Lismore Showground for increased exhibitions and events activity

• Major events and entertainment centre

• Improvements to safe driver training facility for young people

• Council asset sales

• Restoration of historic Lismore Wharf on the Wilsons River

• Lismore Regional Airport – expanded uses including aviation industry training • CBD ‘shop top’ housing

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 4

RICHMOND HILL, MCLEANS RIDGES AND VILLAGES IN THE LGA

NORTH LISMORE PLATEAU

Rural residential areas outside the LUA provide unique lifestyle options

Greatest positive impact on local economy, employment growth and CBD business

PLANNED URBAN LAND RELEASES – NORTHERN SIDE

Providing for our future population

trinity drive

EXPANDED CBD:

See map below

LAGOON GRASS

PINEAPPLE ROAD

new bridge

Goonellabah link

SOUTH LISMORE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE

Adjoining Lismore Airport: hardware superstores, freight, manufacturing, vehicle sales

east lismore

CRAWFORD ROAD

INVERCAULD Road

CHILCOTTS GRASS

PLANNED URBAN LAND RELEASES – SOUTHERN SIDE lismore airport

New housing developments facilitate employment and economic growth

LISMORE URBAN AREA

LEGEND

KEY GROWTH FACTORS

Urban land release Industrial estate Sports grounds and parks

AT A G L A NC E NORTH LISMORE PLATEAU

Proposed 253 hectare development with 1500 lots and potential for > 4000 people

EXPANDED CBD growth corridor

HEALTH PRECINCT

Proposed medium density zone with 100% development contribution discount Specific needs: new housing, medi-hotel and high-quality serviced apartments LISMORE BASE HOSPITAL

RIVERBANK PRECINCT

$180m upgrade and elevation to teaching hospital

Incorporating riparian zone improvements, new walkways and potential for new housing across from CBD

growth corridor

UNIVERSITY CENTRE FOR RURAL HEALTH

Nationally-recognised centre of excellence growth corridor

SOUTH LISMORE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE

Set for industrial and bulky goods sector growth plus future regional transport hub

5,000 students in multiple campuses and major plans in place for strategic future development

growth corridor

vIBRANT CBD

AIRPORT

SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY

Largest number of retail and professional services in region: CBD is enlivened by unique events and activities year round

ST VINCENTS PRIVATE HOSPITAL

Significant growth prospects for hospital and health precinct

ABOUT LISMORE Lismore is a thriving regional centre in the Far North Coast of New South Wales, known locally as the Northern Rivers region. The Lismore Local Government Area (LGA) covers an area of 1,267 square kilometres, with a total population of 44,629 in 2014. Lismore City generates almost $2 billion in GRP annually and the Lismore LGA is host to some 4,000 businesses and over 20,000 jobs. The city is serviced by daily commuter flights to Sydney, with easy access to international flights out of the Gold Coast and the motorway to Brisbane.

> > Employment

> > R ecent major developments in the city

Health, education, community services and retail trade are the dominant employment sectors in Lismore, with construction, finance, insurance, property and business services expanding significantly.

In a reflection of Lismore’s role as the regional hub, the city has seen considerable construction and development activity of late. Major projects include the recent completion of Southern Cross University’s $28m hi-tech Learning Centre, the $10m renovation of Lismore Central Shopping Centre, the construction of Council’s $15m Goonellabah Sports and Aquatic Centre, new facilities at the University Centre for Rural Health totalling $7.2m, the construction of the $6m Gateway Motel accommodation and conference facility, the building of a brand new $10m Woolworths supermarket and retail premises at Goonellabah, and the $6m refurbishment of Lismore City Hall.

Lismore’s workforce has the highest level of bachelor degree and post-graduate qualified workers in the Northern Rivers and the city also enjoys the highest level of vocationally trained workers in the region.

With an annual budget of $130m+ Lismore City Council is also a key employer in the LGA, providing over 400 jobs directly.

> > P opulation increase and economic growth

The recent construction of an $11.25m Masters superstore has been matched by major building and infrastructure projects as well as significant investment in land for residential housing by the Lismore Catholic Archdiocese and private sector developers. These activities have been complemented by the first stages of a $180m expansion of Lismore Base Hospital.

QUEENSLAND

Tweed Shire

NEW SOUTH WALES

Kyogle Shire

Byron Lismore Shire LGA

Lismore Urban Area

Richmond Valley Shire

Ballina Shire

LISMORE – NATIONAL LOCATION

LISMORE – REGIONAL LOCATION

The LGA is primed to grow by 5,900 residents over the next 20 years. Lismore’s population is growing at a sustainable level, with the city’s residents maintaining the highest household income for the region. The major factor helping to generate population growth is the employment opportunities contained within the major economic growth sectors described in this prospectus.

Brisbane Lismore

NEW SOUTH WALES

Sydney Adelaide

Clarence Valley Shire

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 6

Melbourne

Lexie Hu r f o r d CH I E F E X E C U T I V E OFF I C E R , A n d r ew Hu r f o r d M A N A G I N G D I R E CTOR , Hu r f o r d s “Lismore provides an ideal base for our regional manufacturing business due to the depth and diversity of professional, engineering, planning, legal and accounting services available in the city. The relationships built up over time with our local suppliers and subcontractors have undoubtedly contributed to our growth.”

Lexie Hurford “Hurfords values highly the long-term relationship with Southern Cross University which provides timber and forest research of the highest standing to assist our sustainable harvesting activities. Having a world-class research facility like this on our doorstep highlights the connections which make Lismore attractive to business.”

Andrew Hurford

Lismore advocates M A J OR E NT E RPR I S E

B r e t t K e l ly C h ie f E xe c u t i v e O f f i c e r , N o r c o C o - o p e r at i v e Lt d “Our dedicated Lismore workforce of 300 people appreciate that Norco's success gives them the opportunity to prosper in a regional centre. Norco's heritage and operations, combined with the Far North Coast’s 'clean, green' image, resonates strongly with existing and potential international customers, who in many cases cannot rely on the integrity of primary produce from their own countries.”

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 7

KEY GROWTH SECTORS HEALTH

> > Lismore Base Hospital expansion

> > N orthern NSW Local Health District Headquartered in Lismore and with a staff of 3,600, the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) covers an area of 20,732 square kilometres and provides health services to an estimated population of 288,241.

The NNSWLHD manages 11 hospital facilities; by far the largest is the Lismore Base Hospital which (along with related health services situated around the complex) employs 985 people.

> > Lismore Health Precinct Land in Lismore city close to the CBD which encompasses the NNSWLHD administration, Lismore Base Hospital, ancillary medical services and professional suites, the University Centre for Rural Health, 'satellite' health and wellbeing organisations and residences. This combination of facilities acts as a driver to attract skilled medical professionals and allied health workers to Lismore.

The Lismore Health Precinct presents opportunities for the development of more medical facilities, including a proposed 20-bed 'medi-hotel' and a range of medium-density housing options, described in Section 2 of this prospectus.

The Health Precinct is undergoing major changes involving overall expenditure of $180m. The largest of these is the staged expansion of the Lismore Base Hospital. With a capital budget of $80.25m, the new Stage 3a multi-storey redevelopment will provide increased capacity, a greater range of services and improved facilities for patients.

Future redevelopment will also include construction of a new pathology unit and temporary maternity facility plus an expanded community health unit, in refurbished existing spaces.

The current redevelopment at Lismore Base Hospital has increased the need for parking. In response to this demand, a multi-story car park is being built in two stages, with an eventual capacity of 520 vehicles.

>> St Vincents PRIVATE Hospital and Precinct St Vincents Private Hospital campus in East Lismore is the centre of a smaller but no less comprehensive medical precinct with plans for future growth. It was rated as one of the top 10 hospitals in Australia by a nationwide survey of HCF members in 2015.

St Vincents has become a major player in providing access for elective surgery, rehabilitation services, palliative care, oncology and renal medicine and has recently constructed two new operating theatres. Medical specialists and related services are based in a dedicated medical centre within the hospital grounds and a wide range of similar services are located around the hospital.

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 8

C h r i s C r aw f o r d CH I E F E X E C U T I V E OFF I C E R , N o r t h e r n NS W LOC A L H E A LTH D I STR I CT “The effect of the staged development of the Lismore Base Hospital and associated improvements in the provision of health services will have a major and positive impact on the city. Northern NSW Local Health District operations are located in Lismore and the economic and social benefits from our presence are considerable, in terms of employment and resources. We’ve taken a lead role in the work of planning for the future of the rapidly-expanding Lismore Health Precinct, in partnership with Lismore City Council, the University Centre for Rural Health and other organisations. The overall health sector in Lismore has significant prospects for further growth and tangible returns to the city.”

Lismore advocates H E A LTH “I have lived and worked in Lismore for 30 years. Over that period, the close-knit Lismore medical community has grown and matured into an exceptionally capable regional medical service, with clinical, radiology and surgical services a particular strength. The new infrastructure being built on the Lismore Base Hospital site will allow for even better clinical teaching in the future and lead to the development of clinical academic departments. I predict that this will be the basis of a new explosion in medical services in Lismore – to the absolute benefit of the city and its prospects for growth.”

D r . A u s t i n Cu r t i n Su r ge o n , S t Vi n c e n t S P r i v at e H o s p i ta l

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 9

KEY GROWTH SECTORS EDUCATION > > Southern Cross University Southern Cross University is a vibrant, multi-campus university with a growing teaching and research profile.

The Lismore campus delivers higher education courses across all of the university’s eight academic schools and colleges. Situated on 75 hectares, the Lismore campus includes the state-of-the-art Learning Centre and new science and engineering facilities. Other specialist facilities include music and visual arts studios, reflecting the Northern Rivers’ vibrant creative arts industries.

The university operates the SCU Health Clinic, the Southern Cross Football Centre and the Environmental Analysis Laboratories. Lismore is home to the Southern Cross GeoScience and Southern Cross Plant Science research centres, reflecting outstanding research capacity in fields such as geochemistry, crop and pasture production and forestry sciences.

In 2013 the university contributed $220.8m in gross regional product, $135.1m in household income and 1652 full-time equivalent jobs in the Lismore LGA.

> > U niversity Centre for Rural Health The University Centre for Rural Health (North Coast) is a collaboration between the University of Sydney, the University of Wollongong, the University of Western Sydney, Southern Cross University, and state and federal health departments. The UCRH facility is situated opposite Lismore Base Hospital in the centre of the city’s rapidly expanding health precinct.

UCRH was founded a decade ago as part of a national initiative to foster the training of medical students and other health professionals in rural and regional areas and now employs 55 staff in Lismore. UCRH conducts award-winning research in areas vital to the health needs of communities within the NSW Northern Rivers and nationally.

> > Other education assets Lismore is also the administrative centre for the North Coast Institute of TAFE, which specialises in food and beverage management at its Wollongbar campus. The LGA is also home to the largest number of primary and secondary schools in the region. There are six public and private secondary schools in the city, two of which – Trinity Catholic College and St Johns Woodlawn – are administered by the Catholic Archdiocese of Lismore.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Lismore has the greatest number and widest range of professional service providers in the region and is home to major state and federal governmental institutions such as health, justice and community services. The largest concentration of accountants, legal practitioners, financial institutions and investment advisors in the Northern Rivers are located in Lismore.

Town planners, surveyors and other specialist services linked to building and development are also well represented.

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 10

P r o f e s s o r Pe t e r Lee Vi c e C h a n c e l l o r , Southern Cross University C h ai r , Regi o n a l U n i v e r s i t ie s Ne t w o r k B o a r d Me m b e r , U n i v e r s i t ie s A u s t r a l ia “Lismore’s distinctive profile helps inform our teaching and research – from the vibrancy of our creative arts programs, the underlying social justice of our law programs, and cutting edge research in environmental sciences.

The university enjoys connectivity and collaborations with community, industry, and government agencies in the Northern Rivers. Our graduates, many of whom remain local, are our finest achievement.”

Lismore advocates E D U C AT I ON

P r o f e s s o r Le s l ey Ba r c l ay A O Director, U n i v e r s i t y Ce n t r e f o r Ru r a l Hea lt h

“The University Centre for Rural Health is a major regional success story. We receive extremely positive feedback from medical and allied health university students who have completed their clinical placements in the Northern Rivers, coordinated out of Lismore.

Many students who do their practical training here are returning to the area to take up local work opportunities, as interns at Lismore Base Hospital, for instance.”

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 11

KEY GROWTH SECTORS GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENTS

THE CBD

NSW agencies include State Housing, Public Works, Education, the NSW Service Centre, the Richmond/Tweed regional headquarters of the State Emergency Services, Lismore TAFE campus and the North Coast Regional Academy of Sport.

State law enforcement and judicial agencies represented in Lismore include NSW Police, the Lismore Sheriff’s Office, Juvenile Justice, the Community Service Centre, the NSW Community Corrections Office, Lismore Courthouse, Regional Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Legal Aid. Commonwealth departments in Lismore comprise Veterans Affairs and Human Services, which includes Medicare and Centrelink.

REAL ESTATE Lismore has the largest number of real estate agencies in the region – a reflection of the healthy state of the property market across the LGA. In the 2014/15 financial year property sales in all sectors totalled $292m. Of this figure, residential property sales accounted for $237m, or 81%.

While rates of return for properties in Lismore might not match those in more volatile metropolitan centres, yields are consistent and extremely stable over time.

In partnership with the Lismore business community, Council administers a successful CBD revitalisation scheme which has transformed the city centre. Council will spend $3.7m over the next four years on the CBD/Wilsons River project, incorporating major improvements to infrastructure and amenities which contribute to the attractiveness of the city centre and neighbouring riverside precinct.

In addition to infrastructure upgrades such as footpaths, street furniture, lighting etc., the revitalisation scheme’s ‘Back Alley Gallery’ has completely transformed the network of alleyways and lanes that bisect the CBD and are an historic feature of Lismore’s cityscape.

THE ARTS The Northern Rivers contains the highest number of creative workers in NSW outside metropolitan Sydney, with the largest number based in the Lismore LGA. The city is home to a peak arts body called Creative Lismore; an alliance of 18 arts, cultural, entertainment, business, tourism and education partners which are developing projects and strategies for promoting and celebrating the LGA as a vibrant and culturally significant centre of creativity.

Senior partners include the Lismore Regional Gallery, Northern Rivers Performing Arts (NORPA) and the Northern Rivers Conservatorium.

Creative Lismore’s vision is that Lismore will be the pre-eminent centre for the arts in regional Australia.

Among its core objectives, Creative Lismore aims to help realise the Lismore Quadrangle project, which includes the relocation of the Lismore Regional Gallery, featured on page 24 of this document.

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 12

K a r ey Pat t e r s o n F o u n de r A N D D i r e c t o r , e r e s e r v e “Lismore is an innovative and creative hub that provides fertile ground for ventures such as ours.

The city punches above its weight in terms of services and facilities and there is a large and well-educated population of university graduates that are passionate about the area and seek work here. It is no accident that we have been able to catapult our product out to customers around the globe from our base in Lismore.”

Lismore advocates I NNOV AT I V E SM A LL b u s i n e s s

“As the epicentre of an acknowledged clean, green food bowl, Lismore is superbly placed for a business like Black Sombrero: we benefit from having top quality fresh produce at our fingertips.

Add to that foundation a local Council that is on the ‘war-path’ to reduce red tape for its business constituents, and a local TAFE and university turning out highly trained and ambitious young hospitality professionals, and you have the perfect recipe for a burgeoning culinary culture here in Lismore.

It’s also great to know that we’re contributing to the revitalisation of the city centre.”

J u l ie D i c k s o n F o u n de r A N D Ma n agi n g D i r e c t o r , Black Sombrero

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 13

KEY GROWTH SECTORS TOURISM

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT

Tourism contributed $93m to the local economy in 2013, with over 500 people employed in the sector across the LGA. Council’s tourism department coordinates all marketing and promotional activities, attracts major sporting events providing economic benefits to the city and assists annual large-scale festivals and cultural events.

Lismore’s population is projected to increase by 5,900 people over the next two decades, with attendant benefits for the city’s growth. Lismore City Council has zoned land for residential, commercial and industrial use sufficient to match anticipated growth in key housing, health, education and business sectors until 2035.

With a global profile, the village of Nimbin is a major draw card in the LGA and has strong potential for development in the areas of accommodation, tours, Indigenous and experiential tourism.

AGRICULTURE Agriculture, forestry and fishing contributed $132m to the Lismore economy in 2013 and traditional agricultural industries, such as timber and wood products, sugarcane, dairying and cattle farming remain important sources of wealth for the LGA. This wealth is being augmented by well-established industries such as coffee, tea tree, berry fruit, stone fruit and macadamias – Lismore is the headquarters of the macadamia industry in Australia.

The demand for rural property remains high in the area.

> > S ample development – North Lismore Plateau The proposed North Lismore Plateau project represents a significant opportunity for the development of a substantial residential community located in close proximity to the Lismore CBD. It is anticipated that the 253-hectare development will provide a variety of housing options to meet the needs of people at different stages of life and different household structures.

The North Lismore Plateau will offer a network of multiple transport modes that will be safe to walk, cycle and play in; a neighbourhood centre connected by paths and cycleways to the residential areas, and a network of parks and open spaces. Council’s vision is for development at North Lismore Plateau to be an exemplar in best-practice urban design and integrated environmental management, water sensitive urban design and sustainable landscape management.

Two companies are developing the North Lismore Plateau site: Sydney-based Winten Property Group and local consortium The Plateau Group. The proposed overall development will incorporate 1500 lots and a projected population of 3,500-4,000, which has the potential to impact positively on the local economy, boost employment growth and stimulate retail activity in the CBD.

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 14

T o n y Ri o r da n Ma n agi n g D i r e c t o r , RCS G r o u p A u s t r a l ia D i r e c t o r a n d P r o je c t Ma n age r , T h e P l at eau G r o u p

J i m Pu n c h D e v e l o p m e n t Ma n age r , Winten Property Group “In Lismore, Winten has identified a city with exciting potential for growth. Winten is bringing its professional skills and expertise to Lismore to create a residential precinct at North Lismore Plateau that will incorporate the latest urban design features and environmental outcomes. Our company and Lismore City Council have worked closely in the initial rezoning and strategy planning process for the site and will now partner again to bring a new and exciting community to life.”

“Lismore is a major regional hub that allows us to enjoy an idyllic and diverse lifestyle whilst leveraging technology to service a national client base of private and public sector clients. The Plateau Group of landowners are committed to maintaining a strong “local” content in the roll-out of the development as they understand that the money spent on this major project will be the catalyst to building a strong, vibrant and sustainable business community into the future.”

Lismore advocates PL A NN I N G A N D D E V E LOPM E NT

D a m ie n C h a p e l l e T o w n P l a n n e r A N D Pa r t n e r , New t o n D e n n y C h a p e l l e “As Lismore grows and consolidates its role as the centre of Northern NSW, the provision of town planning services is of increased importance as the development needs of the region are recognised.

The ability to access specialist consultants within the Lismore area who value add to our projects has been an integral part of the success of our firm. The expansion of our head office in Lismore is based on the planned growth of the city, enhanced by Lismore City Council’s highly professional approach to ensuring that the community develops in a sustainable manner.”

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 15

KEY GROWTH SECTORS BUSINESS

> > Business growth factors

On the retail and commercial front, Lismore is an exceptional place to do business. Many enterprises in the city have leveraged the benefits of being based in Lismore to carry out successful business in regional, national and international markets whilst being able to take advantage of the lifestyle opportunities the area offers.

Factors contributing to Lismore’s current role and prospective business growth include: • The city’s strategic central location within the Northern Rivers and its ease of access to regional and interstate markets such as Sydney, South East Queensland, Brisbane and the Gold Coast • Comparatively inexpensive cost of land

> > Business confidence The 2013 Lismore Business Retention and Extension Survey (BRE) revealed that for the financial year 2013/14, 71% of the respondents considered the business outlook to be ‘good’ (46%) or ‘very good’ (25%) and 53% of all those surveyed expected to expand their business over the next two years. 16% of all the 450+ businesses surveyed expect to move to new or larger premises within the next five years. Almost two thirds (62%) of finance and insurance businesses, 58% of all property and business service providers and just under half (49%) of all Lismore retail trade businesses expect to increase employment over the same period of time.

The results from other surveys conducted concurrently with the BRE show that the business sector values the ongoing CBD revitalisation program, marketing campaigns and major events that attract customers to Lismore.

• Low labour costs and cost of housing • Affordable business premises (cheaper than major cities) • An extremely proactive council that wants to move forward with business • Excellent freight services • A stable labour market with valuable skills • Strong customer loyalty locally • Low susceptibility to economic downturn • A steadily growing population.

Emerging from the BRE survey was the recognition that Lismore is a highly desirable place to reside, work and raise families with its enjoyable climate and close proximity to rainforests, national parks and beaches. A combination of the natural environment, good agricultural land, housing and lifestyle choices, demographic and cultural diversity, the availability of primary, secondary and tertiary education options and the range of services contained in the city creates a positive work/life balance that attracts and retains employees.

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 16

Mi c k M c K i n l ay Ma n agi n g D i r e c t o r , N o r t h C o a s t Pe t r o l eu m “Factors such as the availability of talented people to build our team, along with the cooperation we receive from Council and local business houses, have all contributed greatly to the success of our business. I have the utmost confidence in the economic future of Lismore. Having recently purchased a CBD property to allow further expansion of our business activities, I am keen to create more local employment opportunities and put back into the local community.”

Lismore advocates

W HOL E S A L I N G A N D M A N U F A CT U R I N G

Be n La m o n t C h ie f E xe c u t i v e O f f i c e r , N o r t h C o a s t Ca b i n e t s “After initially commencing operations in Casino NSW, we made the move to Lismore to establish ourselves in the South Lismore Industrial Estate close to many of our suppliers, and to establish a stronger presence for our current and potential customers. Lismore has provided us with such strong growth in operations that we are now planning to build own greenfield factory here in the near future.”

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 17

PRIVATE SECTOR opportunities NEW COUNCIL OFFICE IN THE CBD

OTHER DEVELOPMENT OFFERS

Lismore City Council’s current administrative headquarters are a 10-minute drive from the city centre. Council has approved in principle moving its operations back down to the CBD subject to the effective financing of such a major project.

Lismore is well situated to house a large-scale and multi-purpose major events complex complete with parking, which could accommodate up to 5,000 people. Depending on the event, the Lismore Major Events and Entertainment Centre would draw from a catchment area encompassing the entire Northern Rivers region and population centres further south and west in NSW, plus South East Queensland.

> > Major events and entertainment centre

The proposed relocation would see over 200 staff operating out of a new corporate centre in a civic precinct adjacent to the Quadrangle, the area containing the Lismore Library, Northern Rivers Conservatorium and relocated Lismore Regional Gallery. The corporate centre proposed would be constructed on Council-owned land in the city’s largest car park, with a range of government departments and commercial operations as potential tenants for the complex.

The economic impact and benefits to the CBD of such a move are considerable and would contribute significantly to the city centre revitalisation process. The new civic centre building would sit above ground level parking to address flood constraints and be built to the highest energy efficiency standards and rating. The new corporate centre would be equipped to take advantage of the digital economy, provide improved access to residents and stimulate business in the city’s commercial and professional services hub.

The complex could be built near the Lismore Regional Airport and cater for agricultural and other special interest expos and conventions, touring national and international musical performers, stage extravaganzas and concerts that would otherwise bypass the region due to a lack of capacity in the city.

> > Regional transportation hub Council owns a large parcel of land adjacent to the South Lismore Industrial Estate that has potential to be developed as a major transportation hub.

Lismore contains a significant number of general and specialist freight companies and courier operations which service NSW and interstate. A large transportation hub of the sort envisaged would expand freight volumes, increase employment locally and attract interest from major national trucking companies.

THE LISMORE PROSPECTUS 18

D a r r y l Pi p e r CH I E F E X E C U T I V E OFF I C E R , Be n n e t t C o n s t r u c t i o n s “Whilst Bennett Constructions now works in many locations, Lismore will always be our base and is from where our growth has originated: we built the original Lismore City Hall in the 1960’s and were delighted to complete the $6m refurbishment in 2013.

As Lismore has sustained our business for seven decades it is only right that we look to reinvest in this city. Our confidence in local growth has us poised to commence a new office complex in the Lismore CBD, developed by the company, and featuring the highest achievable environmental rating.”

Lismore advocates

CONSTR U CT I ON A N D R E A L E STAT E

“Yields on investment property in Lismore have been extremely attractive over the years. Investing here is a sound proposition because the city is the major regional service centre for the Far North Coast. Lismore’s strategic advantage lies in the existing – and planned – major investment infrastructure and employment generated by the largest economic sectors we have: health, education, professional services and so on. Combined, these sectors attract people to the city, which in turn builds a strong base for business and property owners as well as commercial and residential tenants.”

C h r i s Ha r l ey Ma n agi n g D i r e c t o r , N o r t h C o a s t C o m m e r c ia l Rea l E s tat e

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PRIVATE SECTOR opportunities FUTURE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT Land for urban release has been rezoned and nominated for residential use in a variety of locations within the Lismore Urban Area.

These include: • Pineapple Road: a 201-hectare, 330 to 380 lot housing development situated on a northern ridge near Richmond Hill featuring a mix of lot sizes and range of housing choices, including potential for up to 140 self-contained dwellings for seniors.

• Altitude 2480: a staged multi-type dwelling development for 218 homes plus extensive community and recreation facilities including a swimming pool, children’s playground and walking trails.

• Waterford Park: with land being released in stages, this housing estate contains 35 lots located in close proximity to schools, sports grounds, parkland and the Goonellabah Shopping Centre.

• Invercauld Road: this subdivision has the potential for 260 lots. Council approval is being sought currently for 132 lots.

• Crawford Road: a 57-hectare site owned by Southern Cross University and zoned for multiple use with room for an estimated 270 lots.

• Chilcotts Grass: a 21-hectare development site close to Tucki Creek in Goonellabah which has potential for 130 lots. Those lots that are able to be serviced come with development applications approved.

• Trinity Drive: although yet to be rezoned, this proposed new 122-hectare housing estate consisting of 280 lots is close to the city centre and has a predominantly northern aspect.

• Lagoon Grass: although similarly not yet rezoned, a sizeable parcel of land covering 92 hectares to the north of the Lismore Urban Area with the potential of up to 175 lots.

• East Lismore: this precinct is in a sought-after area of the city. Yet to be rezoned, it consists of elevated land adjoining the ‘dress circle’ of Lismore, potentially suitable for 150-200 lots, and close to the Lismore Golf Club, St Vincents Private Hospital and Wyrallah Road Shopping Centre.

• Sanctuary Hills Estate: a 10-hectare area of urban farmland in Goonellabah zoned for residential development is being sold now, featuring extensive elevated views and a combination of both level and sloping building blocks. A development application and a construction certificate has been approved on this land.

In addition to the residential developments described above, realtors in Lismore have full listings of business and industrial land plus commercial buildings for purchase or leasing, and can be contacted direct or via Council. A feature of the Lismore LGA is the number of villages and localities outside the defined urban area which also contain possible housing development opportunities for a range of lifestyle options including large-lot dwellings.

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LISMORE HEALTH PRECINCT > > Medium-density housing Council is changing town planning controls to help encourage and support health-related activities and medium-density housing within the precinct. These changes, if approved, will enable developers to build higher and with greater density.

Other policy amendments are proposed that would see a total waiver of Council's infrastructure contributions for medium density housing and mixed use developments in the Lismore Health Precinct.

> > Other development opportunities There is potential for a range of high-quality temporary accommodation in the Lismore Health Precinct. There is a need for serviced apartments with self-catering facilities to meet the requirements of a range of professionals requiring short term – or extended – accommodation. The target market includes senior members of the judiciary, visiting academics linked to the University Centre for Rural Health, visiting medical officers on secondment to the Lismore Base Hospital, business people and others.

Similar potential exists for a 'medi-hotel' offering pre and post-operative accommodation for patients undergoing surgery, or for extended treatment not requiring hospitalisation. The medi-hotel would also serve as a base for family members who wish to be close to relatives staying in hospital.

CBD HOUSING > > Riverside greenfield site in CBD As a long-term investment project, land behind the bank of the Wilsons River directly across from Magellan Street in the CBD could be developed for medium-density housing. A feature of this development would be the construction of a pedestrian bridge effectively linking South Lismore to the city centre. Demographic change – the move to the inner city by baby boomer retirees – would likely support this kind of development.

> > CBD ‘shop top' housing Turning offices and storage areas above shops into living spaces has proven to help revitalise city centres world-wide; bringing more demand for local shops and cafés and keeping the inner city active in the evenings and on weekends. Council has waived carparking and Section 94 and 64 contributions for 'shop top' housing and can help with satisfying necessary fire and other regulations.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING The Commonwealth Building Better Regional Cities scheme enables Council and its consortium partners to subsidise 200 affordable housing lots in several major housing estates given development approval across the city. The scheme will see eligible residents given a $20,000 cash injection to build homes on these 200 housing lots.

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PRIVATE SECTOR opportunities INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL LAND

COUNCIL ASSET SALES Investment and development prospects are as follows:

Lismore contains seven industrial and commercially zoned precincts, each with a distinct character and role and encompassing a total area of 503 hectares. It is anticipated that over the next 10 years Lismore will require an additional 125,000m2 of gross floor area for industrial development and a further 43,250m2 for commercial development. Land is available and has been zoned to enable this scale of business development to occur.

Lismore currently has 248 hectares of business-zoned land, with sufficient retail floor space to accommodate demand from the present day until 2031. Of the 264 hectares of land zoned for general and light industry, 94 hectares is vacant and can similarly absorb future demand.

There are a number of defined industrial estates in Lismore with considerable investment and growth potential including South Lismore, North Lismore and Holland Street in Goonellabah. Lismore is able to offer a competitive advantage to businesses and manufacturers by providing industrial land at extremely competitive values. Council has sizeable blocks of land for sale on Krauss Avenue close to Lismore Regional Airport and the South Lismore Industrial Estate.

• When Council moves back to the CBD, the existing administration building, which is equipped to a high standard in terms of IT interconnectivity, would be available for sale. With a total floor space of 2,550m2 and dedicated parking for 120 vehicles, the complex presents opportunities as a nursing home, corporate headquarters or other uses.

• A number of small ‘pocket parks’ throughout the Lismore Urban Area which have been reclassified and rezoned to allow them to be sold and developed for residential development.

• The present Lismore Saleyards complex (to be relocated), which is suitable for a mix of light industrial and/or commercial use.

• When the relocation of the Lismore Regional Gallery takes place, the existing gallery building will be made available for purchase. The building adjoins a thriving café (on Crown land) and would be suitable for a design studio or legal, medical, accounting or other professional offices, with the option of living quarters on the first floor.

Realtors in Lismore have listings of businesses, commercial properties and industrial land for purchase or leasing, and can be contacted direct or via Council’s Economic Development Manager.

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COMMERCIAL OPPORTUNITIES > > Lismore REGIONAL Airport The Lismore Regional Airport site has spare capacity and strong commercial prospects. The site could house major freight and / or warehousing distribution operations and be a base for ballooning and fixed wing and helicopter pilot training.

An allied aviation training scheme provided by North Coast TAFE in collaboration with relevant federal authorities commenced in 2015. If the pilot security and baggage handling scheme fulfils its potential, a purpose-built training centre will need to be constructed at the airport, at an estimated cost of $1m+.

Interest in the airport as a base for storing and exporting produce to China has been expressed recently, and the pilot program for allied aviation training mentioned above has led to enquiries from aviation authorities in both India and China. With the exponential increase of domestic and international air travel in both these countries (and similar trends throughout South East Asia) the market for such training in Lismore is vast.

The number of international aviation-related students envisaged will necessitate large-scale student housing. If the proposal for the bulk storage and export of locally sourced produce progresses, significant infrastructure will need to be constructed.

> > Helicopter rescue service In late 2014 the Lismore-based Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter (Northern Region) and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter (Hunter and New England regions) were awarded NSW Government contracts for the provision of aeromedical retrieval services in Northern NSW. The Lismore operation is moving to a new helibase with expanded facilities at Lismore Regional Airport by early to mid 2017, presenting further opportunities for construction and development.

> > Laurie Allen Centre There is potential for the adaptive re-use of a sizeable and historic former Rowing Club situated on Crown land adjacent to the bank of the Wilsons River in the heart of the CBD. This building and surrounds lend themselves to redevelopment along the lines of a café and/or river-based recreational activities. The building and suggested new uses could capitalise on its proximity to the planned pedestrian bridge across the Wilsons River linking the CBD and proposed medium-density housing facing the riverside precinct in the city’s heart.

> > OTHER OPPORTUNITIES There is scope for additional business activities on the former Lismore Lake Pool site owned by Council close to the South Lismore Industrial Estate, and potential for short term ‘pop up’ or permanent food and beverage operations at the Lake Pool site and in Heritage Park in the CBD.

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PUBLIC SECTOR FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES MAJOR PROJECT - THE ARTS > > Lismore Quadrangle This project will best represent the capacity of the creative industries in the Northern Rivers. The overall Lismore Quadrangle site currently houses the Northern Rivers Conservatorium, the Lismore Library and the former Lismore High School ‘C Block’. It is this last structure that will undergo extensive adaptive re-use in order to become the new, relocated Lismore Regional Gallery.

The new complex will house four climate-controlled ‘triple A-rated’ galleries, enabling the Lismore Regional Gallery to secure the loan of artworks and exhibitions from major national collections. A total area of 400m2 of display space will be located on the first floor of the building, above flood height. Arts Northern Rivers offices, event spaces and a Co-op Bookshop will be incorporated in the new building.

It is estimated that collective annual visitation to the three component organisations will reach 300,000.

The drawing power of a major cultural facility translates into significant value-added expenditure at local businesses, as well as employment and social benefits for the wider community. An economic impact research report focussed on the Quadrangle project has found that with increased visitation, an expanded gallery will generate an additional $4m annually to the Lismore economy, primarily in the city centre.

The Lismore Quadrangle project will cost $5.8m.

The external area linking all three buildings will become a flagship central space or ‘piazza’ in the epicentre of the Lismore CBD. It will be used for innovative cultural programming, festivals, outdoor concerts and other events. The completion of the Lismore Quadrangle will help transform Lismore’s city centre and accelerate the revitalisation process already in train.

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J u l ia n L o ui s – A r t i s t i c D i r e c t o r , Pat r i c k Hea l ey – G e n e r a l Ma n age r , N o r t h e r n Ri v e r s Pe r f o r m i n g A r t s ( NORP A ) “NORPA’s home in Lismore is constantly inspiring us to tell its stories, and to celebrate the depth and diversity of this region.

In 2015, NORPA is working on seven new Australian theatre productions whose stories are informed by the uniqueness of our region and contribute to informing Australia’s cultural life and heritage.”

Julian Louis “Lismore has available such a level of local support infrastructure that we are able to create any kind of art form from circus to drama in an array of contemporary artistic formats ranging from digital to physical theatre. NORPA looks forward to being an integral part of Lismore’s future economic and cultural growth.”

Patrick Healey

Lismore advocates TH E A RTS

Pe t e r W o o d c H I E F E X E C U T I V E OFF I C E R , A r t s N o r t h e r n Ri v e r s “Lismore is the cultural heart of the Northern Rivers, attracting an exceptionally high percentage of creative industries practitioners.

It’s little wonder that Arts Northern Rivers has committed to relocating to Lismore, aligning our operations with this creative cohort and continuing our strategic partnerships with the Lismore Regional Gallery, Southern Cross University, Lismore City Council and others.”

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PUBLIC SECTOR FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES MAJOR PROJECT - PASSIVE RECREATION > > Lismore Park Lismore Park is the city’s major green space between the CBD, Lismore Shopping Square and the Lismore Heath Precinct. It has the potential to become an iconic ‘destination’ recreational zone in the centre of the city; similar in atmosphere and drawing power to New York’s Central and Sydney’s Hyde Parks, albeit on a more modest scale. The Lismore Park Master Plan proposal features a pedestrian boulevard, landscaped terraces, bike paths, tree-lined walkways, a café and playground. Creation of the park will involve relocation of some existing sports facilities.

Other possible elements include the restoration of a former creek, construction of a corner entry plaza at the junction of two adjoining streets, building picnic areas and creating an educational wetland area and lookout. Another option will

require the development of a pedestrian boulevard linking Lismore Shopping Square to the CBD via the park, complete with lighting and landscaping.

In its proposed form, the new Lismore Park will meet the demand for cleverly designed and well-equipped passive recreation areas. With its ideal location as a green space between the vibrant CBD and a major shopping complex, Lismore Park is ideally situated to draw large numbers of locals and visitors and play a lead role in the integrated future growth of the city.

The cost to implement the Lismore Park Master Plan is $6.5m.

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MAJOR PROJECTS - ROADS > > GOONELLABAH LINK A major ancillary link road is required to re-route local traffic off the Bruxner Highway and to provide residents in Goonellabah with an alternate route to the city centre. The capital works required to cover this two-stage construction process planned between 2018 and 2028 will incur an estimated 2015 cost of $8.8m.

> > Trinity Connection A new major road is required to run uphill from Trinity Drive on the northern approach to Lismore to connect with the Bruxner Highway in Goonellabah. This project is envisaged to take place between 2028 and 2035, at an estimated 2015 cost of $6.27m.

It could occur earlier; triggered by the growth of traffic generated by the North Lismore Plateau.

> > Northern Connection Bridge The increased traffic movements generated by the completion of the proposed North Lismore Plateau project are likely to have a major impact on the CBD and urban area. A new bridge to improve access for rural/residential localities north of the city is planned to span the Wilsons River in the CBD. The Northern Connection Bridge is slated for construction between 2023 and 2028, at an estimated 2015 cost of $15.3m.

> > Additional Wilson Street Bridge This project will act as a catalyst for further industrial development in the South Lismore area and a predicted 4.3 million tonnes of freight per year being carried over the proposed new bridge and link road. The estimated cost of an additional bridge plus associated works is $3.5m.

OTHER INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS To prepare for anticipated future growth, Council has commenced major upgrades to the South Lismore Sewage Treatment Plant and set aside $23m for this staged process. Similar upgrades required for infrastructure in other parts of the city centre include: • Sewage Pump Station 3: located centrally within Lismore city and serving a 480-hectare catchment including the CBD, Lismore Shopping Square, Lismore Base Hospital and St Vincents Private Hospital, in addition to significant residential development. The upgrade of this pump station would increase its capacity to match future projected loads within the catchment and cost $3m. • Sewage Pump Station 10: located within South Lismore and serving an existing 60-hectare catchment of mixed residential and commercial development. Approximately 40 hectares of undeveloped industrial land is situated to the south and west of the pump station: it will serve future development in this area. Upgrading Pump Station 10 will cost $0.5m.

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PUBLIC SECTOR FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES SPORTING FACILITIES Lismore is the sporting capital of the Northern Rivers region of NSW and home to the Southern Cross Football Centre.

Our principal assets are the range of sporting facilities, committed local clubs and strong affiliations with state, national and international sporting organisations, based on their experience of either competing or training in the city. Council has commissioned a series of strategic plans to upgrade the key sporting facilities, which are described below.

> > O akes Oval and Crozier Field Oakes Oval and Crozier Field adjoin the Lismore CBD. In addition to its primary role as a major sporting facility for football and cricket, Oakes Oval hosts large community and cultural events which can attract up to 10,000 spectators.

Key elements of the Oakes Oval upgrade include extending the grandstand roof cover, improving other spectator areas, expanding the on-field playing area to maximise dimensions for AFL games, replacement and improvement of changing and toilet facilities, and replacing the existing scoreboard with an electronic version for all football codes, and cricket, at a cost of $4.5m.

Crozier Field is used by rugby league clubs, but requires improvements within a four-stage Master Plan so that all codes requiring rectangular fields can use it. The cost of the Crozier Field upgrade is $0.55m.

> > A lbert Park baseball complex A nationally recognised baseball hub with a strong history of nurturing and developing skilled players and running major competitions and events, Lismore aims to become the home of Little League baseball in Australia. The major facility upgrade planned for the Albert Park Baseball Complex includes improvements to three baseball fields and surrounding grounds, construction of a new clubhouse and other buildings, extensive landscaping and expanded spectator facilities. The upgrade will cost over $4m

> > Hepburn Park Hockey is the second most popular women’s sport in Australia. Hepburn Park contains two competition-level hockey fields, but only one has artificial turf. At present, and due to the success of the facility in terms of use by hockey clubs and major tournaments, demand for the superior playing surface is exceeding supply. The planned upgrade to the park will see the installation of artificial turf on the second field, enable all players access to the new standard, and boost the potential for Lismore to host national and even international tournaments. The upgrade will cost over $1m.

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C r aig F o s t e r S p o r t i n g C o m m e n tat o r “I grew up in Lismore – the unchallenged sporting capital of the Northern Rivers. I’m delighted that a world-class artificial turf football field has recently been constructed at Southern Cross University, and the developments planned for Oakes Oval and Crozier Field, plus the national-class baseball facility at Albert Park, can only strengthen the city’s strategic and geographic sporting advantage.”

Lismore advocates SPORT

A da m G i l c h r i s t A u s t r a l ia n t e s t c r i c ke t e r “I have fond memories of the very start of my sporting career, playing first grade cricket in Lismore at the age of 14 as a student at Kadina High, and it is exciting to see the planned development of Oakes Oval – the home of cricket in the Northern Rivers. Oakes Oval has hosted such important events as the international second tier knockout competition for the 2014 Cricketing World Cup (with eight countries competing) and the 20/20 matches involving NSW, Victoria and Tasmania, in 2009.

I can think of no other regional cricketing centre with as much potential as Lismore.”

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PUBLIC SECTOR FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES RECREATION FACILITIES Improvements are planned for a number of Lismore’s parks, including Heritage Park in the CBD, Wade Park in the southeastern area of the city and Nesbitt Park in South Lismore. An audit of all park facilities in the Lismore Urban Area is also planned. Other projects requiring funding include: • Wilsons Walking Track: commencing at Girards Hill beside the Bruxner Highway in the city centre and leading to the Lismore Golf Course, the track is to be transformed into a contemporary recreation asset, suitable for shared activities including walking, jogging and mountain biking at a cost of $0.45m.

• Birdwing Butterfly Walk: extending the existing walk 1.5 kilometres from Kadina Street to the rear of Hepburn Park in Goonellabah through to Holland Street, at a cost of $0.1m.

• Cycleways: an expanded network of cycleways is required to complement the city’s growth and provide transportation and recreational benefits to residents and visitors. In total, 33km of improvements to cycleways and cycling infrastructure are required, at a cost of $4.4m.

• Pedestrian pathways: improvements are needed in Lismore’s pedestrian network, which is challenged by a lack of suitable crossing facilities on most highly trafficked roads and highways. To ensure safe pedestrian access and mobility, the cost of the program for proposed new footpaths is estimated at $3.56m.

OTHER PROJECTS Projects suitable for public sector funding within and beyond the CBD include: • Providing the network of car parking facilities in the CBD with weatherproof overhead shelter, commencing with trial roofing over the Clyde Campbell Car Park. This project lends itself to the possibility of a large-scale solar power installation atop permanent/durable roofing infrastructure: Council is a leader in self-sufficient power co-generation. The trial roofing project will cost $0.4m.

• Upgrading facilities at the historic and multi-function Lismore Showground complex to encourage increased exhibitions and events. The upgrade has been estimated at $2.5m.

• The construction of infrastructure for a vehicular training track to facilitate safe driving instruction for youth, based around a public awareness and training program called Southern Cross LADS (Learn About Driving Skills) which arose from a tragic accident involving young people from the area. The estimated project cost is $2m.

• The restoration of the Lismore Wharf: a vital element within the CBD Riverwalk project which involves extensive clearing, large-scale riparian planting, upgrades to existing paths and the construction of new walkways. The estimated cost is $0.5m.

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COUNCIL ASSISTANCE > > Help for developers and business investors Lismore City Council has earned a reputation as a proactive organisation and is a signatory to the Small Business-Friendly Councils program run by the NSW State Government. It has a proven track record of assisting partners involved in major planning projects, developers and business in general.

Council has a ‘can do’ approach in terms of new development; routinely providing pre-lodgement meetings to ensure all issues and information required from applicants are identified upfront. Council employs an experienced Strategic Property Development Manager for major developments, and the services of an in-house urban designer are brought to bear on larger development applications. In regard to the future rezoning of residential land, Council offers a fee-based and unique design charrette service for larger rezoning projects.

Lismore City Council also provides financial incentives for certain types of development. For example, Council has adopted a development contributions discount policy for secondary dwellings, shop top housing and certain CBD uses and is proposing significant incentives to encourage medium-density housing in the Lismore Health Precinct. The organisation is committed to making continuous improvements: it conducts annual development industry satisfaction surveys and holds regular focus group meetings to ensure that the assistance offered to developers and business is relevant, consistent and effective.

> > Business support Council's Economic Development Manager is responsible for significant procurement and partnering initiatives and is the single point of contact for existing businesses that need support in such areas as finding new markets, relocating to Lismore, or upskilling their workforces. Resources such as the comprehensive online i.d.lismore data resource offer insights into the Lismore LGA for potential investors.

Lismore City Council places great emphasis on creating and nurturing strong partnerships to improve planning and encourage sensible development in the city. The organisation won a NSW Local Government Excellence Award in the ‘Partnerships for Growth’ category for its innovative Lismore Health Precinct project in mid 2015. Council was also presented with an 'Excellence in Innovation' award by the NSW Business Council for the 'Buy Local Northern Rivers' project in 2014 and for the Lismore Sustainable Economic Advantage 2020 strategy.

Council is now recognised for turning what was a frustrating 'slow..no' procedure into a win-win 'let's go' approach. It offers clear and consistent policies and development frameworks that provide certainty for private sector developers, investors and business entrepreneurs, and which stimulate growth in new and existing businesses.

For information on any aspect of investing or doing business in Lismore please contact:

Mark Batten Manager Economic Development Lismore City Council PO Box 23A, Lismore NSW 2480 43 Oliver Avenue Goonellabah, Lismore T: +61 2 6625 0458 M: 0427 003 645 mark.batten@lismore.nsw.gov.au

www.lismore.nsw.gov.au