OUR region’s population is growing and changing.
As more people choose to call Port Stephens home, the demand for essential services continues to rise.
With over 25 percent of residents aged 65 and over, which is above the state average, we need to ensure our local healthcare keeps pace with the needs of every generation.
We regularly hear that better access to local healthcare services is important to you.
The 2024 Liveability Survey results identified that access to health and wellness services is a top priority for our residents’ quality of life, including our communities in and around Tomaree.
While State and Australian governments manage public health, Council’s role is to advocate on your behalf.
When we endorsed the Salamander Bay Town Centre Place Plan, we committed to seeking additional health facilities.
These opportunities don’t come along often.
But good news – this is happening right now via Council-owned land at 10 Central Avenue, Salamander Bay.
My fellow Councillors and I unanimously supported the decision to bring a premier healthcare development opportunity to the market.
This will drive investment in local infrastructure, create local jobs, and improve the GP to patient ratio for the Tomaree community.
Importantly, the potential development site is over 120 meters away from the Mambo Wetlands – that’s longer than a sporting field!
But there is a smaller portion of the site in the buffer zone of an isolated disturbed wetland, and should further development be proposed, assessments will be required under the State Environmental Planning Policy 2021.
It’s always a balance, and we’re all committed to balancing essential services our local communities need while also protecting the precious nature we all love.
This Expression of Interest (EOI), managed by CBRE, is just the starting point for us to gauge market interest. Submissions close on 26 May 2026.
I’ll look forward to sharing more updates as this important development progresses.
By Leah ANDERSON, Port Stephens Council Mayor
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