Investing in our cities

Creating jobs and growing local economies

Our Smart Cities Plan sets out a vision for our cities, which is not just about jobs and getting goods to markets but is also about improving amenity, removing congestion and improving quality of life.

City Deals are transforming the way we plan and invest in cities. They provide a new way for all levels of government to listen to the local community, identify priorities, and develop a joint plan of action.

Townsville

The signed Townsville City Deal is a roadmap for the city’s future. In addition to commitments to expand industry, trade and investment to drive long term employment, the jointly funded $250 million North Queensland Stadium will create 750 design and construction jobs and support Indigenous employment and local procurement. More than 2,000 people from the Townsville region are expected to be involved in contracts related to the build of the stadium, with local subcontractors and suppliers engaged for at least 80 per cent of the value of the project.

Launceston

The signed Launceston City Deal is an historic plan to create jobs, boost wages and drive a strong economic future for the north of Tasmania. The centrepiece of the deal is the jointly funded $260 million relocation of the University of Tasmania’s main campus into the city centre. This is combined with $19.4 million in support for Launceston’s City Heart project, which will rejuvenate the historic CBD. These projects will deliver more than 480 local jobs and apprenticeships, 225 university positions and allow for 10,000 more student places.

Western Sydney

The Western Sydney City Deal is the most ambitious to date. It brings the Commonwealth, New South Wales and eight local governments together in partnership to make Western Sydney a better place to live and do business. The city deal will focus on local job opportunities, connectivity and liveability. Under the city deal, the Government will offer incentive payments for ambitious planning and zoning reform and deliver more homes in Western Sydney. The City Deal will catalyse development in the area surrounding the new Western Sydney Airport, stimulate local job growth and improve transport options with the rest of Sydney.