Maitland is ready to advocate for city-shaping priorities

Maitland City Council has officially adopted the Partnerships and Advocacy Strategy 2025–2026, providing a clear roadmap of priority projects and advocacy areas to deliver on the community's vision for Maitland's future. 

The Strategy identifies more than $300 million in key unfunded infrastructure and service priorities that could shape the city over the coming years, including major roads, recreation and community facilities, and other projects relying on partnerships with state and federal governments and the private sector.

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold said the Strategy ensures Council is ready to advocate and leverage opportunities when they arise.

"Many of the projects our community has told us matter most, like better roads, public transport links, and health and education facilities, rely on decisions and investment from other levels of government," Mayor Penfold said.

"This Strategy strengthens how we work in partnership with all levels of government, private industry and our community to create positive change. 

"It takes what Maitland residents have told us and turns it into a clear, community-informed roadmap of priorities. Working together, we can create a connected city with thriving communities."

Among the advocacy priorities highlighted in the Strategy are unlocking the potential of the former Maitland Hospital site and a northern access point to Metford Station to improve walkable connections for Chisholm residents. 

Mayor Penfold said Council's role is to champion and advocate for these projects and ensure Maitland's is recognised when investment opportunities arise for the state and federal governments to deliver outcomes for the community.

With Maitland's population expected to grow to around 145,000 by 2041, and an annual growth rate of 2.7 per cent, Council said prioritising these city-shaping initiatives will help manage growth sustainably — socially, economically, and environmentally.

Council will review the Partnerships and Advocacy Strategy 2025–2026 annually in conjunction with the Delivery Program and Operational Plan. It will continue to guide Council's engagement with partners, funding bodies, and stakeholders, ensuring the community's priorities remain central to the city's development.

Read the Partnerships and Advocacy Strategy: mait.city/Advocacy