7 September 2017 – Media Release
Cumberland Council has unveiled a new forward-looking strategy and policy framework to boost investment in local knowledge-based sectors and create new jobs. Targeted industries include media, advanced manufacturing, creative industries, fashion, allied health, advanced knowledge services and freight and logistics.
The Employment and Innovation Lands Strategy (EILS) and Land Use Planning Framework (LUPF) will leverage the region’s distinct advantages, including its strategic position to major motorways, arterial roads and Parramatta and Sydney CBDs, to establish Cumberland as the innovation hub for Greater Sydney.
Knowledge-based industries will be encouraged to set up shop in the area, with subsidised floorspace, exemption of Development Application (DA) fees and incentive-based Local Environmental Plans (LEP) provisions all possible for start-ups and creative industries under the Land Use Planning Framework.
Cumberland Council General Manager Malcolm Ryan said the draft strategy and policy would allow Cumberland to take full advantage of opportunities offered by our increasingly knowledge-based economy.
“Traditionally the backbone of Cumberland’s local economy has been industry and retail; think manufacturing, transport and warehouses or the many shopping centres along Parramatta Road,” Mr Ryan said.
“For Cumberland to remain competitive we need to continue supporting existing businesses, while diversifying the employment opportunities in our area. A local resident has every right to be able to choose from a range of job opportunities, in close proximity to where they live.
“This is also about ensuring our kids and our kid’s kids have good job opportunities. The child staring at their Ipad today could be tomorrow’s next big tech innovator if given the right circumstances.
“This approach also looks at how we work. We can do a lot more to promote innovation by encouraging collaboration between industry, educational institutions, government and residents.
“In Lidcombe for example, the presence of a Sydney University Campus and TAFE presents a natural opportunity for partnerships between education and industry, to develop the skills base of the future.
“The opportunities for innovation are numerous. However to take advantage of them we need a single, up to date and forward-looking strategy and policy framework.”
The Draft Cumberland Employment and Innovation Lands Strategy and Land Use Planning Framework 2017 will go on public exhibition for a period of six weeks between September and October.
