In 2016, the Australian Government began entering into City Deals to support economic development in specific communities. A City Deal represents a partnership between a community and all 3 levels of government focused on jobs creation and renewal. The Illawarra-Shoalhaven City Deal proposal would include the Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, Illawarra and Shoalhaven LGAs and is being developed by:
- RDA Illawarra
- RDA Far South Coast
- Shoalhaven City Council
- Kiama Municipal Council
- Shellharbour City Council
- Wollongong City Council
- Illawarra Shoalhaven Joint Organisation
- Illawarra Business Chamber
- UDIA
- Property Council
- University of Wollongong
- Smart Infrastructure Facility, University of Wollongong
The prospectus outlines 10 key projects for delivery, representing $148.5m Federal, $589.5 State, $47m council and $90m private investment.
- Business case for the South West Illawarra Rail Link (SWIRL)
- Picton Road Duplication and Mt Ousley Interchange
- M1 Albion Park on/off ramps
- Development of Albatross Aviation Technology Precinct
- Wollongong Entertainment Centre Precinct
- Blue Highway: Develop a Cruise, Boating and Voyaging Network
- Kiama Arts and Cultural Precinct
- Develop Nowra Waterfront Mixed-Use Precinct
- Circular Economy and Reduced Waste to Landfill
- Implementation Plan and delivery of Smart City Regional Projects
The coalition will present their proposal to governments in the near future.