Media Release

The Illawarra is again showing it is a powerhouse of innovation, enterprise and collaboration, with three local businesses winning at the 2026 Business NSW State Business Awards.

Hysata won Employer of Choice (21 Employees and Over). Green Gravity won Excellence in Sustainability, and nowra.org.au won Outstanding Visitor & 24-Hour Economy Collaboration. It's a remarkable result for all three businesses and a proud moment for the whole region.

This year's awards brought together 216 state finalists across 22 categories from every corner of NSW. Winning three state titles in that field shows the calibre of business being built across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands.

All three winners first won at the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards in September. They then represented the region at state level alongside a strong group of Illawarra finalists. The path runs from local chamber awards to the IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards and then to the state stage, and it shows how well the regional awards network works. It gives local businesses a clear pathway to be recognised, backed and celebrated at every level.

Hysata has quickly become one of the region's most exciting clean energy success stories. The judges recognised its people-first culture, which includes flexible work, generous leave provisions and thoughtful support for employees. This is all within a fast-growing, world-leading clean energy business. Hysata's win shows that the Illawarra can attract and keep top talent in the industries shaping the future economy.

Green Gravity has now won Excellence in Sustainability at state level for the second year in a row. Its approach to energy storage repurposes disused mine shafts to create a gravity-based renewable energy solution. The business has made national headlines and is helping position the Illawarra as a leader in the global shift to sustainable energy infrastructure, turning the region's industrial heritage into a clean energy advantage.

nowra.org.au was recognised for bringing business, arts, culture and community together to revitalise Nowra's CBD and build momentum in the evening economy. Its win shows the power of collaboration and how local partnerships can strengthen the visitor economy, support local businesses and bring town centres to life.

Business Illawarra Director Coralie McCarthy said the results show the quality and ambition of businesses across the region.

"Three state titles is an outstanding result for our region. I couldn't be prouder of Hysata, Green Gravity and nowra.org.au," Ms McCarthy said.

"These businesses show where the Illawarra is heading. They show world-leading clean energy innovation, workplaces where people want to build their careers, and a visitor economy driven by genuine collaboration.

"Each of them started their journey at our regional awards, and seeing them succeed on the state stage shows how important this pathway is. It gives our businesses the confidence and the platform to show the rest of NSW what we already know: some of the state's best ideas are right here in our backyard.

"To our winners and every Illawarra finalist who represented the region with such pride, congratulations. You've done our business community proud."

Winners of the 2026 Business NSW State Business Awards were announced at a gala event in Sydney on Friday 30 October. Illawarra finalists showcased the region's excellence, innovation and contribution to the state's economy.

The 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards have celebrated an outstanding night of regional business excellence, with winners announced across more than 20 categories at a sold-out gala event at University Hall, University of Wollongong.

Hosted by Business Illawarra, the awards brought together hundreds of business leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, sponsors, government representatives and community champions to recognise the people and organisations shaping the future of the Illawarra, Shoalhaven, Kiama and Southern Highlands regions.

Poseidon Animal Health was named the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business of the Year, recognised for clear vision, disciplined execution, strategic international growth and outstanding achievement across the awards process.

Business Illawarra Director Coralie McCarthy said the event was a powerful reminder of the depth, strength and ambition of the region’s business community.

“Tonight was about celebrating the businesses, leaders, employees and organisations that are creating jobs, investing in people, backing innovation and strengthening our communities,” Ms McCarthy said.

“The quality of this year’s finalists and winners was exceptional. These are businesses that are not waiting for the future to arrive, they are building it.”

“Across clean energy, health, tourism, professional services, social enterprise, manufacturing, technology and community services, the achievements recognised tonight show exactly why our region deserves confidence, investment and a strong voice.”

The awards recognised excellence across leadership, workplace culture, innovation, sustainability, inclusion, export growth, visitor economy, community impact and business performance.

This year’s event was particularly significant, with Business NSW marking 200 years of supporting business, Business Illawarra celebrating 106 years in the Illawarra, and the region marking the 40th year of these prestigious awards hosted by Business Illawarra.

Ms McCarthy said the awards were also a celebration of collaboration across the region’s broader business ecosystem.

“These awards are proudly delivered by Business Illawarra, but they belong to the whole business community,” she said.

“They belong to the finalists who put themselves forward, the judges who volunteer their time, the sponsors who make the program possible, the local chambers who support business at the grassroots, and countless businesses who give time and passion to the awards every year, every person who turned up tonight to cheer on regional success.”

“We are especially grateful to our principal partner IMB Bank, our category sponsors, media partners and supporters, and to the University of Wollongong for helping us deliver such a memorable event.”

Winners from each category will progress to represent the region at the Business NSW Awards, providing an opportunity for local success stories to be recognised at a state level.

The Judges also awarded 6 highly commended this year.  

Highly Commended Recipients 

Business Illawarra has today announced the finalists for the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards, recognising outstanding achievement across the region’s business community.

The finalists represent a diverse cross-section of the Illawarra economy, from emerging businesses and sole traders to major employers, innovators, visitor economy operators, community organisations and individual business leaders.

Business Illawarra Director, Coralie McCarthy, said the 2026 finalist cohort reflected the strength, resilience and ambition of local business.

“Each finalist has earned their place by demonstrating excellence, leadership and commitment to their business, their people and the wider region” Ms McCarthy said.

“The awards are an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people and organisations driving our regional economy forward, and to celebrate the stories behind their success.”

The 2026 Finalists

Outstanding Employee

• Brodie Meney, Symbio Wildlife Park;
• Viviane Franco, Metropolitan Mine;
• Amy Champness, Culleton Lawyers;
• Tania Jones, Green Gravity;
• Jarryd Murphy, MitchCap;
• Jo-Anne Owers, Peoplecare Health Insurance;
• Allison Bielski, Climax Air Conditioning; and
• Jes Cochrane, Marketing Movement.

Outstanding Young Business Leader

• Aaron Mulhall, Specialised Energy Solutions;
• Zane Wilde, Wilde Law Group;
• Karlie Zec, Tiny Tins;
• Elise Sinclair, Waples Marketing Group;
• Priya Poloni, Black Cat Theatre;
• Avalon Bourne, Sonder Youth Ltd; and
• Teresa Vi Nguyen, Specsavers Kiama.

Outstanding Business Leader

• Amy Hall, Banksia Support Services;
• Jack Plummer, Wollongong Granny Flats;
• Kim McArthur, South Coast Brides;
• Gulcin Topel, Saltwater Kiama;
• Alisha Musker, The Cram Foundation;
• Kate Pearson, Peoplecare Health Insurance;
• Simon Hinton, Merrigong Theatre Company; and
• Erica Jones, Interchange Shoalhaven Ltd.

Excellence in International Business

• Hysata;
• Poseidon Animal Health;
• Smartvisit International; and
• Extranet Systems.

Employer of Choice, 20 Employees and Under

• Pacific Plan Management;
• Aegis Consulting Engineers + Project Managers;
• EHD Concrete Sleepers; and
• Marketing Movement.

Employer of Choice, 21 Employees and Over

• Hysata;
• Joint Vision Orthopaedic Group;
• UOW Pulse;
• Peoplecare Health Insurance; and
• BCR Communities.

Excellence in Innovation

• Hysata;
• Joint Vision Orthopaedic Group;
• Metropolitan Mine;
• Sprout Scientific; and
• Property Pricer.

Excellence in Sustainability

• Hysata;
• Green Gravity;
• Tiny Tins; and
• Stormtech.

Outstanding New Business

• Scam Prevention Australia;
• Arkyn Civil;
• Digital Care Services Australia;
• Harper Finance;
• Red Fox Pilates; and
• The Sea & Beau.

Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion

• The Flagstaff Group;
• Green Yakka;
• BFS Children’s Services;
• Black Cat Theatre;
• Greenacres Disability Services; and
• Interchange Shoalhaven Ltd.

Excellence in Micro Business

• Banksia Support Services;
• Scribbly Gum Photography;
• Aquilla Fishing Charters;
• Crime Story;
• Chuckle Communications;
• Australian Jump Pilot Academy;
• Jervis Bay Hearing Centre; and
• Bee Inspired.

Excellence in Small Business

• Sprout Scientific;
• Workplace Advantage;
• Aegis Consulting Engineers + Project Managers;
• Inner Calm Clinical Psychology;
• Always Education;
• Polished Business;
• Howsafe: Workplace Safety & Training Services;
• Flinders Pet;
• Supercalla; and
• Cin Cin Wine Bar.

Excellence in Medium Business

• Joint Vision Orthopaedic Group;
• Performance Aviation;
• Poseidon Animal Health;
• Green Gravity;
• Solve Care; and
• Climax Air Conditioning.

Excellence in Large Business

• Hysata;
• Peoplecare Health Insurance;
• Specialised Energy Solutions;
• IOH Health;
• Southern.IML Pathology; and
• Shoalhaven Ex-Services Group.

Excellence in Workplace Health and Wellbeing

• Performance Aviation; and
• EHD Concrete Sleepers.

Outstanding Community Organisation

• Our Community Project;
• Coledale RSL Club Ltd;
• The Flagstaff Group;
• Merrigong Theatre Company;
• Flame Tree Community Food Co-Op;
• CatholicCare Wollongong;
• ECTARC;
• North Shoalhaven Meals on Wheels; and
• Kells Kiama Sevens.

Outstanding Local Chamber

• Northern Illawarra Chamber of Commerce;
• Shoalhaven Heads Chamber of Commerce and Tourism; and
• Kiama Business Network.

Outstanding Visitor Experience

• Stand Up Paddle Boarding Shellharbour;
• Tasting Trails Australia;
• Illawarra Rhododendron and Rainforest Gardens;
• Supercalla; and
• The Collective Beat.

Outstanding Visitor and 24-Hour Economy Collaboration

• Grand Pacific Drive; and
• nowra.org.au.

Finalists will now progress to the interview stage, taking place from Tuesday, 4 August to Friday, 21 August, before winners are announced at the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards Gala Ceremony on Friday, 11 September, tickets now on sale at BusinessIllawarra.com

Business Illawarra will announce the finalists for the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards on Monday, 3 August, with category announcements rolling out online from 9:00am throughout the day.

A new category will be revealed every 30 minutes, recognising the businesses, leaders, employees, chambers, community organisations and visitor economy operators helping shape the strength and future of the Illawarra business community.

The IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards are one of the region’s most significant celebrations of business excellence, showcasing achievement across businesses of all sizes, sectors and stages of growth.

Business Illawarra Director, Coralie McCarthy, said the finalist announcements are always an important moment for the region’s business community.

“Finalist day is a celebration. It is a chance to recognise the businesses and individuals who have put their hand up, reflected on what they have achieved, and shared the stories behind their success,” Ms McCarthy said.

“From sole traders and emerging businesses through to major employers, this year’s program reflects the depth, diversity and ambition of the Illawarra business community.”

Finalist announcements will begin at 9:00am on Monday, 3 August and continue every half hour across the day, released on all Business Illawarra social channels at the same time, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

Finalists will progress to the next stage of judging, with interviews to take place from Tuesday, 4 August to Friday, 21 August. Winners will be announced at the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards Gala Ceremony on Friday, 11 September.

Finalist announcement schedule

Announcements will be released throughout Monday, 3 August on Business Illawarra’s Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, plus category announcement videos will also premiere on YouTube across the day (direct links to YouTube premiere below).

• 9:00am Outstanding Local Chamber;
• 9:30am Outstanding Employee;
• 10:00am Outstanding Young Business Leader;
• 10:30am Outstanding Business Leader;
• 11:00am Excellence in International Business;
• 11:30am Employer of Choice;
• 12:00pm Excellence in Innovation;
• 12:30pm Excellence in Sustainability;
• 1:00pm Outstanding Community Organisation;
• 1:30pm Outstanding New Business;
• 2:00pm Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion;
• 2:30pm Excellence in Micro Business;
• 3:00pm Excellence in Small Business;
• 3:30pm Excellence in Medium Business;
• 4:00pm Excellence in Large Business;
• 4:30pm Excellence in Workplace Health and Wellbeing;
• 5:00pm Outstanding Visitor Experience; and
• 5:30pm Outstanding Visitor and 24-Hour Economy Collaboration.

How to get involved

• Share and support the online finalist announcements on Monday, 3 August 2026, as Business Illawarra celebrates business excellence across the region.
• Feature, interview or profile finalists in the lead-up to the Gala Ceremony, where winners will be announced on Friday, 11 September.
• Speak with category sponsors about their involvement in the Awards and the stories behind their support for Illawarra businesses.
• Attend the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards Gala Ceremony and be part of one of the region’s leading celebrations of business achievement.
• Interview or feature category winners after the awards, more to come!

Business Illawarra says the 2026–27 NSW Budget is fiscally responsible but fails to deliver the support businesses need at a time of rising costs and falling confidence.

Director Coralie McCarthy said the Budget highlights a growing shift in how the state is funded, with increasing reliance on business activity.

“From July 1, businesses are dealing with higher wages, new superannuation requirements and increased compliance,” Ms McCarthy said.

“At the same time, payroll tax now makes up nearly 30 per cent of total revenue, with an additional $1 billion expected to be collected over the next four years, meaning businesses are carrying a growing share of the load.”

Ms McCarthy said the Budget shows billions falling out of property-based revenue, including transfer duty and land tax, reflecting the governments’ view on a future of weaker market conditions.

“As revenue from property declines, the system is leaning more heavily on payroll tax and levies, without delivering structural relief in return,” she said.

While Business Illawarra welcomed continued investment in infrastructure across the region, Ms McCarthy said the funding reflects projects that have been committed for years, with limited new investment to drive growth.

“The Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands are seeing important projects delivered, but these are not new. They are projects we’ve known about for years,” she said.

See Full Media Release Here. 

Travellers and businesses across regional NSW are paying more to fly, while policy gaps and funding settings continue to limit access to reliable air services in the Illawarra.

The warning follows the release of Business NSW’s new policy paper, Keeping Regional NSW Connected: The Future of Our Airports, which calls for long term reform to strengthen regional aviation and improve connectivity across the state.

Business Illawarra Director, Coralie McCarthy, said the situation at Shellharbour Airport highlights the real impact of these pressures.

“As it stands today, there are no commercial passenger flights operating from Shellharbour Airport following the suspension of services in May,” Ms McCarthy said.

“Our region has effectively lost its direct air connection overnight, and that has an immediate impact on businesses, tourism and broader economic activity.”

The report shows regional passengers across the state are paying up to 52 per cent more than city travellers, while more than half of regional airports operate at a loss and many routes rely on a single airline.

Ms McCarthy said these challenges are playing out locally. “To expect the local ratepayers of Shellharbour LGA to foot the bill for this regionally significant asset is simply not a long term plan,” she said. “The reality of Shellharbour Airport reflects exactly what the strategy is highlighting, rising costs, fragile airline markets and policy settings that don’t match how regional airports actually operate.”

See Full Release Here

Business Illawarra has welcomed the NSW Government’s $225 million investment to support low carbon manufacturing, describing it as a major opportunity to strengthen the region’s industrial base, create jobs and position the Illawarra for the industries of the future.

The funding round, now open to manufacturers, will support commercial and construction ready projects that expand local production, attract private investment and build capability in emerging sectors including renewable energy components, advanced materials and clean technologies.

Business Illawarra Director Coralie McCarthy said the Illawarra is uniquely placed to take advantage of the investment.

“The Illawarra has the skills, infrastructure and industrial heritage to lead in this next generation of manufacturing,” she said.

“This is exactly the type of targeted investment we need to help local businesses grow, diversify and compete in a changing global economy.”

See Full Press Release Here

Business Illawarra says tonight’s Federal Budget delivers some welcome measures for business, including long sought certainty on the instant asset write off and steps to reduce red tape, but is being overshadowed by a broader confidence crisis and a failure to back the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands with the infrastructure investment needed to unlock housing and support a sustainable workforce into the future.

Director of Business Illawarra, Coralie McCarthy, said the Budget acknowledges some immediate pressures facing business, but falls short of the decisive reform and targeted regional investment needed to restore confidence and lift productivity.

“There are positives in this Budget, including certainty on the instant asset write off and practical red tape reduction,” Ms McCarthy said.

“But the reality is confidence is falling because the cost of doing business keeps climbing. Fuel, energy, insurance and red tape are squeezing margins and making it harder for businesses to invest, take on staff and grow.”

Ms McCarthy said early indicators across the business conditions survey, now open, point to confidence falling to its lowest levels in years, as cost pressures continue to bite and uncertainty remains around longer term policy settings.

“When you are trying to rebuild confidence, you need policies that support investment, not settings that add uncertainty,” Ms McCarthy said.

Housing and key workers: targets mean nothing without enabling infrastructure

Business Illawarra welcomed the Government’s $2 billion Local Infrastructure Fund to support essential enabling works such as water, power, sewer and roads, noting this reflects long standing advocacy.

See Full Release here 

Celebrating excellence across the Illawarra business community

Businesses across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands are being invited to share their stories of success, innovation and leadership, with entries now open for the 2026 IMB Bank Illawarra Business Awards.

The awards celebrate the strength, diversity and resilience of the region’s business community and recognise outstanding achievements across 21 categories, spanning individuals, organisations, innovation, sustainability, tourism and community impact.

Delivered by Business Illawarra and proudly supported by IMB Bank as principal partner, the Illawarra Business Awards are the region’s most prestigious business recognition program, shining a spotlight on the people and organisations driving economic growth and community outcomes.

Ms. Coralie McCarthy said the awards provide more than recognition.

“The Illawarra Business Awards are an opportunity for businesses to reflect on their journey, recognise their people and share the impact they’re having in our region. Every business has a story worth telling, and these awards help bring those stories to life.”

See Full Press Release Here

Global fuel supply disruptions are a timely warning for New South Wales, with forecasts pointing to a tightening gas market within the next two years. For the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands, this risk also presents a clear opportunity to lead the state’s transition to renewable gas - particularly biomethane.

 Read Full Press Release Here

Business Illawarra’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) will kick off its 2026 events calendar with an inspiring and practical session designed to help emerging professionals build confidence, credibility and presence in their careers.

The event will feature respected WIN News presenter, journalist, and professional MC Bruce Roberts, who will share insights from his decades-long media career, including the realities of working in the public spotlight and the communication skills required to perform under pressure.

Roberts has anchored more than 22,000 primetime news bulletins across NSW, the ACT, Tasmania and Victoria, bringing extensive experience in journalism, professional speaking, workplace training and acting.

“This first YPN event of 2026 is about helping young professionals build the confidence to show up in their careers,” said Coralie McCarthy, Director, Business Illawarra.

“Bruce brings decades of experience learning how to speak with confidence, and we’re excited for our YPN community to learn practical insights they can apply in their own careers,” Ms McCarthy said.

During the session, Roberts will share actionable guidance on building a strong personal brand, communicating with clarity, and developing the kind of professional presence that builds trust and credibility. Attendees will also hear about Roberts’ career journey, from early acting roles, including appearances on Home & Away, to becoming one of regional Australia’s most recognised television news presenters.

Ms McCarthy said the event reflects Business Illawarra’s commitment to supporting the next generation of professionals across the Illawarra.

“Providing safe and friendly networking events for our up-and-coming leaders to connect with each other and hear from our region’s leaders was something several young professionals approached Business Illawarra about when I joined the organisation a year ago,” she said.

“Developing confident and capable young professionals is essential to the future strength of our region. Through YPN, we’re creating opportunities for emerging leaders to connect, learn from experienced professionals, and build the skills that will shape their careers and the future of the Illawarra.”

The event has also been welcomed by Elise Sinclair, Media and Strategy Lead at Illawarra marketing and media agency Waples, and one of the first young leaders who encouraged Business Illawarra to establish more networking opportunities for the region’s younger workforce.

“Early in your career, leadership and networking moments can feel daunting, whether you’re presenting to a client, speaking up in a meeting, or being put on the spot by the boss,” Ms Sinclair said.

“Bruce brings decades of experience performing under pressure, and I’m excited for the YPN community to learn practical insights they can apply in their own careers” she said.

The Young Professionals Network event will be held Thursday, 19 March 2026, from 7:00am–9:00am at The Sage Hotel, Wollongong. For full event details and registration, visit the Business Illawarra website.

Business Illawarra has today welcomed the Minns Government’s announcement of a $270 million investment in road and transport links for Wollongong and Port Kembla, describing it as a major boost for the region’s economic future and a strong signal that the Illawarra is central to the State’s long-term trade and freight strategy. 

Director of Business Illawarra, Coralie McCarthy, said the investment demonstrates clear confidence in the region’s growth trajectory and positions Port Kembla at the heart of future supply chains in New South Wales. 

“This landmark investment is something industry has been working together to advocate for over many years. It will strengthen Port Kembla’s role as a worldclass working port and a key economic gateway for the State.” Ms McCarthy said. 
“The Illawarra, South Coast and Southern Highlands is expanding, our industries are diversifying, and this commitment to upgrading freight and transport links will support thousands of jobs today and into the future.” 

With the bulk port operations at Glebe Island reported to be ending by 2030, Business Illawarra is encouraging current tenants and operators to consider establishing or expanding their operations in the Illawarra. 

“Our message to Glebe Island tenants is simple: the Illawarra is open for business,” Ms McCarthy said. 
“We are a growing, future focused economy with efficient access to three international airports, a deepwater port, a skilled workforce, and a strong pipeline of infrastructure investment. There is no better place in NSW to set up and grow.” Ms McCarthy said.  

Call for progress on freight and passenger rail links to Western Sydney (SWIRL) 

Business Illawarra also welcomed Minister Scully’s confirmation that the transport package includes work to investigate transport links and reiterated the region’s strong support for advancing the long discussed South West Illawarra Rail Link (SWIRL). 

“We strongly encourage the Government to ensure that this package includes a business case and early planning for freight and passenger rail links to Western Sydney” Ms McCarthy said. 

The organisation noted the recent position of Wollongong City Council, which reaffirmed the need for both freight and passenger rail connectivity between the Illawarra, Western Sydney, particularly considering the Western Sydney International Airport. 

“The Illawarra needs direct, reliable, high-capacity rail access to the Aerotropolis and Western Sydney, not just for freight, but for workers, visitors and students,” Ms McCarthy said. 

“SWIRL will unlock enormous economic value, strengthen resilience in the State’s rail network, support the visitor economy and enable efficient freight movement. Our own studies clearly show the transformative benefits this connection would bring.” 

Business Illawarra highlighted that multiple inquiries and government responses have already recommended further evaluation of the SWIRL link, including the newly developed Integrated Transport Plan, and urged the Government to embed a clear commitment to feasibility assessment and business case development. 

A region ready to grow 

Ms McCarthy said the new investment builds upon transformative local initiatives already underway, such as the rezoning of 200 hectares of BlueScope surplus lands and major upgrades to the region’s road and rail networks. 

“The scale of opportunity in the Illawarra region and surrounds has never been greater,” Ms McCarthy said. “This infrastructure funding is a critical step, and we look forward to continuing the strong partnership between business and the NSW Government to ensure the Illawarra is equipped with the transport infrastructure it needs to thrive.” 

Business Illawarra has today released its Homes for Workers 2026 Policy Report 2026, calling for urgent action to ensure workers can live locally and businesses across the Illawarra, South Coast and Southern Highlands can continue to grow.

The report identifies 11 game changing opportunities to unlock housing supply and urges immediate NSW Government investment and planning reform to address critical workforce pressures.-changing opportunities to unlock housing supply and urges immediate NSW Government investment and planning reform to address critical workforce pressures.

Director of Business Illawarra, Coralie McCarthy, said housing availability has become one of the most significant barriers to workforce recruitment, retention and regional economic growth.

“Workers need somewhere to live. Without housing, businesses can’t grow — it’s that simple.” Coralie McCarthy, Director, Business Illawarra

Examples of priorities highlighted in the report include:

• Transforming Nowra CBD through a coordinated planning and investment package to finally move from strategy to delivery.

• Investing in enabling infrastructure, including the West Dapto Ring Road, Nowra–Bomaderry utilities, and addressing ongoing shortfalls in Mittagong and Colo Vale.

• Accelerating social and affordable housing precincts at Bellambi, Gwynneville and Bomaderry–Nowra to support essential worker access to homes close to jobs.

• Recognising childcare as critical economic infrastructure to support workforce participation.

Ms McCarthy said the region urgently needs aligned transport, planning and infrastructure investment to keep pace with population and industry growth.

“In the Illawarra, South Coast and Highlands, the number of women aged 25–44 in employment has almost doubled over the past five years, yet more than 70% of local families remain in a ‘childcare desert’. In some areas, there are three young children for every one childcare place. Childcare is now a frontline workforce issue, housing and access to essential services must go hand-in-hand if we want people to be able to work.”

She also stressed the importance of moving quickly on key housing precincts:

“Delivering mixed social and affordable housing in Bellambi, Gwynneville and Bomaderry–Nowra is critical to ensuring long term housing close to major employment hubs. These precincts must be accelerated.”-term housing close to major employment hubs. These precincts must be accelerated.”

And on Nowra: “Nowra has been identified as a key regional centre for decades, but delivery has stalled due to fragmented planning and inconsistent investment. The opportunity is enormous and coordinated action is needed to deliver confidence to the private sector to invest”

WEBSITE-TILES-Events-(9).zipThe full report is available here: Homes For Workers Policy 2026 Report

ILLAWARRA BUSINESSES WELCOME ACTION ON UNAFFORDABLE HIGH INSURANCE COSTS

 Business Illawarra has welcomed long‑awaited momentum on fixing the Emergency Services Levy (ESL), saying meaningful reform is critical for local operators increasingly being priced out of essential insurance.

The NSW Government’s decision to refer ESL reform to a parliamentary inquiry marks a significant shift in the state’s approach to spiralling premiums. The ESL currently adds at least 23 per cent to the average business insurance bill, with NSW raising $1.3 billion through the levy in 2024–25.

Local businesses across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands have been sounding the alarm for years. Rising insurance costs have consistently ranked as the number‑one cost pressure for NSW businesses since 2023, and our businesses are no exception. 

Recent regional survey results highlight that businesses in the region continue to face sharp increases in insurance costs, compounding pressures from skills shortages and softening consumer spending. 

Coralie McCarthy, Director of Business Illawarra, said the urgent need for insurance reform is clearly reflected in the experiences of local businesses.

“Businesses throughout the Illawarra, South Coast and Highlands have been raising the alarm about soaring insurance costs for years, and the impact is now impossible to ignore. From small operators to major employers, the rising cost of simply staying insured is putting jobs, investment and community resilience at risk. So many businesses we speak to are either significantly under insured or no longer insured at all” Ms McCarthy said. 

“Reforming the Emergency Services Levy is a critical step toward restoring fairness and affordability. Our region is highly exposed to natural disasters, and businesses need insurance. The risk is huge for local families. We need a modern funding model that supports businesses, not one that pushes them out of the insurance market altogether, its short term gain for long term impact when businesses can’t recover in disasters without insurance!” Ms McCarthy said. 

“This inquiry is a welcome sign that NSW is finally taking this issue seriously. We urge all sides of politics to work together to deliver a sustainable, transparent system that keeps the Illawarra, South Coast and Highlands economically strong and protects the communities that rely on local business most. We need our local small business, surly, as we now are years past black summer and the many floods since, we have learned something!”

NSW remains the only mainland state still relying on an insurance‑based levy to fund emergency services, long after other jurisdictions have transitioned to broader property‑based models. 

With the Government also preparing an options paper outlining five potential levy models, Ms McCarthy said local businesses are looking for reform that will reverse years of mounting pressure and restore confidence.

“Businesses want a system that is fair, sustainable and future‑focused. Our region cannot afford to see more businesses priced out of insurance, this reform is essential to protecting our economic strength and community resilience.”

RED TAPE COSTS LOCAL BUSINESSES HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS, BUSINESS ILLAWARRA CALLS FOR ACTION

As inflation and interest rates continue to rise, Business Illawarra members are warning that government taxes, levies and regulatory burden are becoming a critical threat to business sustainability, with red tape now imposing sixfigure costs on some local businesses. 

Business Illawarra is calling on businesses across the region to submit examples of government red tape that are costing them unnecessary time and money, as part of a new Red Tape Register aimed at driving reform over the next 12 months. 

Recent discussions with local businesses highlight the scale of the problem. 

“One local professional services firm told us that complying with newly introduced government regulations will cost their business an additional $20,000 every year, purely in administrative and compliance costs,” said Coralie McCarthy, Director – Illawarra, Business Illawarra. 

“In another case, a business was seriously considering setting up a second company, not to grow or innovate, but simply to navigate the system, because the paperwork and regulatory structure would save them around $300,000 a year. That’s not productivity. That’s red tape madness.” 

Business Illawarra believes these examples are not isolated and is concerned that the cumulative regulatory burden is quietly eroding competitiveness, investment and jobs across the region. 

“In an environment of rising interest rates, higher energy prices and increased wages costs, businesses are telling us that government taxes, levies and charges are now among their top concerns,” Ms McCarthy said. 

“Red tape is a hidden cost. It doesn’t show up on a bill, but it shows up in lost time, delayed decisions and money that could otherwise be reinvested into staff, equipment or growth.” 

The Red Tape Register will collect direct input from businesses on: 

• What the red tape is – approvals, reporting requirements, duplicatedprocessesor compliance obligations
• The impact on your business – delays, lostproductivityor constrained growth
• What it is costing you – in dollars, staff hours or foregone opportunities

The register will be published on the Business Illawarra website and used to prioritise advocacy with all levels of government, with a focus on achievable reforms within the next 12 months. 

“We’re not asking for regulation to disappear,” Ms McCarthy said. 

“We’re asking for it to make sense. If something takes longer than it should, costs more than it should, or exists simply because ‘that’s how it’s always been done’, then it’s time to challenge it.” 

Business Illawarra is urging all businesses - small, medium and large - to contribute their experiences and help build the evidence base for change. 

Businesses can submit their examples via a simple online form at: 
www.businessillawarra.com/redtape 

“This is about giving business a collective voice,” Ms McCarthy said. 

“If we want red tape reduced, I need help to show clearly show where it exists, what it’s doing to our economy, and why change is urgent. I encourage businesses to get on board and submit their stories and examples.” 

BUSINESS ILLAWARRA LAUNCHES FUTURE OF HOUSING SUMMIT – ANNOUNCING JAMIE DURIE AS A KEYNOTE SPEAKER - CALLING FOR DELIVERY LED SOLUTIONS

Business Illawarra will launch its 2026 advocacy agenda with the Future of Housing Summit, headlined by sustainability advocate and Future House host Jamie Durie, as the organisation calls for a sharper focus on housing delivery and infrastructure alignment across regional NSW.

Housing supply constraints across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands are increasingly undermining workforce participation, business investment and productivity, with flow on impacts for the NSW economy.

As Business Illawarra’s first major advocacy event of 2026, the Summit will focus on accountability, infrastructure readiness and delivery timelines — and on what must change to turn policy reform into housing on the ground.

Business Illawarra Director, Coralie McCarthy, said the inclusion of Jamie Durie as keynote reflects the need to challenge traditional thinking on housing delivery.

“Jamie brings a national perspective on what future ready housing must look like,” Ms McCarthy said.

“This Summit is about lifting the conversation — not just on supply, but on how we design, deliver and future-proof housing for growing regions.”

Ms McCarthy said while recent planning reforms were welcome, enabling infrastructure remains the critical barrier to delivery.

“We recognise the significant progress made through planning reform,” she said. “But approvals don’t build homes. Roads, water and essential services must move at the same pace, or housing targets will continue to fall short.”

“Infrastructure alignment is now the missing link between policy ambition and delivery.”

Ms McCarthy said housing constraints are no longer a purely regional issue, but a material economic risk for NSW.

“Housing is not just a social issue — it’s a workforce and productivity issue,” she said.

“If regions like the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands can’t house the people who support industry, health, education and construction, the State’s growth ambitions are at risk.”

The Summit builds on Business Illawarra’s Housing Report released in 2023, which helped establish a coordinated regional agenda and contributed to planning reform and increased investment in affordable and key-worker housing.

“That work created momentum,” Ms McCarthy said.

“This Summit is about the next phase — delivery, infrastructure and outcomes.”

The Future of Housing Summit will bring together senior State Government ministers, industry leaders and regional stakeholders to assess progress, identify barriers and align policy and investment priorities.

In addition to keynote speaker Jamie Durie, confirmed speakers and panellists include the NSW

Ministers for Planning and Housing, alongside senior leaders from the property, development and housing sectors.

“If NSW wants strong, resilient economic growth, housing delivery in outside of the city centres must be treated as core economic infrastructure,” Ms McCarthy said.

“That’s why housing is where our 2026 advocacy agenda begins”

Proudly sponsored by: Housing Trust, Colliers, Wollongong Granny Flats & Edmiston Jones

EVENT DETAILS:

Date: Friday 20 February 2026 Time: 8.00am – 12.00pm Location: CityBeach Function Centre, 1 Marine Drive, Wollongong NSW

Confirmed speakers and panellists include:

• Jamie Durie, TV Host, Future House

• Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

• Rose Jackson, Minister for Housing, Homelessness, Water, Mental Health and Youth

• Amanda Winks, CEO, Housing Trust

• Simon Kersten, Managing Director, Colliers

See event information online here.

Proudly sponsored by: Housing Trust, Colliers, Wollongong Granny Flats & Edmiston Jones

BUSINESS ILLAWARRA WARNS RISING COSTS AND INFLATION HITTING REGIONAL BUSINESSES HARDER

Business Illawarra Director Coralie McCarthy says today’s inflation figures confirm what regional businesses have been experiencing for months, rising costs are eroding confidence, delaying investment and putting longestablished businesses at risk. “Today’s inflation data is a wakeup call for government,” Ms McCarthy said.  “Stubborn inflation, high interest rates and escalating business costs are hitting regional businesses harder and for longer, with little room left to absorb more pressure.” 

Business NSW today warned that an annualised inflation rate of 3.8 per cent, well above the Reserve Bank’s target band, is undermining confidence and reducing the likelihood of nearterm rate relief.  Business Illawarra says the impact is being felt acutely across the Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands, where small and mediumsized businesses dominate the local economy.  “Insurance, tax and energy are the three biggest pressure points for our members, exactly as Business NSW has identified,” Ms McCarthy said. 

 “In our region, we’re seeing insurance premiums doubling or tripling, energy costs becoming unmanageable, and payroll tax and compliance costs eating directly into already thin margins.”  Feedback from Illawarra, Shoalhaven and Southern Highlands businesses shows consumer demand is volatile, bookings are increasingly lastminute, and customers are spending less.  Many businesses report steady workloads but shrinking profitability, forcing tough decisions about staffing, pricing and future investment.  “Businesses are working harder than ever, but confidence is fragile,” Ms McCarthy said.  “Some are holding back on hiring, some are shelving expansion plans, and others are questioning whether they can keep operating at all.” 

Business Illawarra strongly supports Business NSW’s call for governments to rein in spending, reduce red tape and focus on productivityenhancing reform. “Reducing the cost of doing business must now be the priority,” Ms McCarthy said. 
“That means cutting red tape in housing construction, speeding up planning approvals, reforming inefficient taxes like payroll tax and stamp duty, and delivering infrastructure that supports workforce participation.” 

In regional communities, these reforms are critical to addressing workforce shortages, housing affordability and transport constraints that directly affect business viability. “Small business is the backbone of the economy throughout our regions economy,” Ms McCarthy said. 

 
“If inflation and costs remain unchecked, the risk is not just slower growth,  it’s the loss of businesses, jobs and essential services our communities rely on.”