Hunter Mayors highlight collaboration and housing priorities at Newcastle Business Club luncheon

Collaboration between councils and housing affordability emerged as key priorities at today’s Newcastle Business Club Mayor’s Luncheon, held at Newcastle City Hall and attended by nearly 200 business leaders from across the Hunter region.

The sold-out event brought together senior civic leadership from four local government areas, including the Lord Mayor of Newcastle and the Mayors of Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Maitland, for a discussion focused on economic transition, employment, housing and regional growth.

Lord Mayor of Newcastle Dr Ross Kerridge outlined Newcastle’s continued evolution beyond its traditional reliance on heavy industry, highlighting the importance of shared responsibility and community-led decision-making in shaping the city’s future.

Mayor of Lake Macquarie Adam Shultz emphasised the importance of a collaborative regional approach, noting that Lake Macquarie is home to approximately 14,000 businesses, with 98 per cent classified as small businesses. Housing affordability and employment were identified as closely linked priorities for the city’s continued growth.

Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson highlighted workforce attraction and housing supply as critical challenges for the region, alongside the role of efficient planning processes in supporting development and investment.

Maitland Mayor Philip Penfold discussed the importance of long-term planning, sound financial management and investment in infrastructure to support both residents and businesses as Maitland continues to grow.

Across the panel, all Mayors reinforced the need for stronger collaboration between local government areas, particularly in addressing housing supply, infrastructure delivery and employment opportunities that extend beyond council boundaries.

Newcastle Business Club President Sam Rykers said the luncheon highlighted the value of bringing civic and business leaders together to discuss shared challenges and opportunities.

“The Mayor’s Luncheon is about bringing leadership together in one room and creating space for open conversation about the future of our region,” Mrs Rykers said. “With representation from across the Hunter, this event reflects the collaboration needed to support sustainable growth, strong communities and local business confidence.”

The Mayor’s Luncheon marked the first major event on the Newcastle Business Club’s 2026 calendar, with further business and leadership events scheduled throughout the year.

For more information on upcoming events or to become a member, visit: newcastlebusinessclub.com.au