Newcastle Labor Outlines Vision for City’s Future

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and the Newcastle Labor candidates have presented their vision for the future of Newcastle. Joined by NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley MP, and Commonwealth Assistant Minister for a Future Made in Australia, Senator Tim Ayres, they outlined plans aimed at building on recent development and investment in the city.

Under Nelmes’ leadership, the City of Newcastle has seen over $1 billion in public infrastructure investment. The new vision aims to continue this momentum, focusing on community engagement through surveys, door-knocking, and public consultation.

Key Focus Areas

Newcastle Labor’s “Positive Vision” document has been distributed across the city, outlining five main priorities for the next term:

• Getting on with the Job
• Supporting our Residents
• Pups, Pools, Parks and Playgrounds
• Protecting our Environment
• A Fun, Vibrant, and Active City

A video summarising these achievements and future goals has also been made available to residents.

Election and Team Information

The local government election will be held on Saturday, 14 September 2024, with early voting beginning on 7 September 2024. The Newcastle Labor team is presenting candidates across all wards:

• Lord Mayor Candidate: Nuatali Nelmes
• Ward 1 Candidates: Declan Clausen, Sandra Feltham, Rachel Smoothy
• Ward 2 Candidates: Paige Johnson, Carol Duncan, Justine Clark
• Ward 3 Candidates: Nuatali Nelmes, Peta Winney-Baartz, Margaret Wood, Phillip Millard
• Ward 4 Candidates: Elizabeth Adamczyk, Deahnna Richardson, Jimmy Scott

Statements from Leaders

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes highlighted infrastructure investments made during her time as Lord Mayor, noting that the focus remains on making Newcastle a desirable place to live.
“My vision is backed by a record of delivery. Our aim is for Newcastle to remain a fantastic place to live and raise a family,” Nelmes said.

NSW Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley MP, emphasized the partnership between the state government and the City of Newcastle on various projects, including housing and environmental initiatives.

Assistant Minister Tim Ayres pointed to Newcastle’s economic and infrastructure growth as aligning with broader federal government priorities, specifically around renewable energy and job creation.

This media release outlines Newcastle Labor’s position and upcoming election details ahead of the vote.