Maitland councillors endorse draft Economic Development Strategy for public exhibition

Maitland councillors have signed off on a draft Economic Development Strategy, giving the green light for the document to be placed on public exhibition. 

The draft Economic Development Strategy follows two years of meaningful conversation with Maitland businesses, residents, schools and other stakeholders, in which Maitland City Council mapped out a 10-year strategic outlook that places community wellbeing at the forefront of every action. 

“Our draft strategy prioritises Maitland’s people and their future skills; creating thriving and connected places; shaping an innovative and diverse economy; and cultivating productive and equitable partnerships with local businesses,” Maitland City Council’s Manager Strategic Planning Brett Gardiner said. 

“With an annual economic output of over $15 billion, and more than 35,000 jobs across 6,000 active businesses, it’s clear that Maitland is both the heart of the Hunter and emerging as one of the most dynamic and fastest-growing economies in regional New South Wales. 

“The development of Maitland’s first Economic Development Strategy is an important step towards building economic resilience and readying our city for the economy of the future. 

“It will provide a roadmap to improve community wellbeing, preserve and enhance green spaces, and create a vibrant, self-sustaining economy for generations to come. 

“With the draft strategy now on public exhibition, we’re asking the community to tell us, did we get it right, and does the strategy reflect your vision for Maitland’s economic future?” 

Public exhibition will conclude on Monday 30 June 2025, after which the final strategy will be presented to councillors for final adoption. 

For more information and to have your say on the draft strategy, visit mait.city/DraftEDS.