Central Coast

The Central Coast has outstanding natural assets, enjoys close proximity to the Hunter and Sydney Regions with an enviable lifestyle that makes it a very attractive region to live and work. The Central Coast with a current population of 349,173 is expected to have an additional 88,000 people living in the region by 2040. The Central Coast region is located in the centre of the fastest growing corridor in NSW, between Sydney and Newcastle. Classed as a Metro Satellite due to its relative proximity to Sydney, the region will become a major economic and population hub over the next two decades, attracting large numbers of families seeking new lifestyle and employment opportunities. The region incorporates the Local Government Areas of Gosford City and Wyong Shire.

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Population

349,173

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Area

1,681 km²

161,070 total jobs with GRP of $20.1B
Source: AEC Group (2022-23)

Top 5 Industries by Employment

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Healthcare & Social Assistance

27,957

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Construction

18,153

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Retail Trade

16,100

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Education & Training

12,961

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Accommodation & Food

11,015

Frequently Asked Questions

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Where is the Central Coast region of NSW and which towns does it include?

The Central Coast is located between Sydney and Newcastle, extending from the Hawkesbury River in the south to the southern shores of Lake Macquarie in the north.

The RDA Central Coast region comprises the Central Coast local government area, which was formed in 2016 through the amalgamation of the former Gosford City and Wyong Shire councils.

Major centres include Gosford, Wyong, Tuggerah, Woy Woy, The Entrance, Erina and Terrigal.

A map showing the region’s geographical boundaries is available above.

What are the major industries on the Central Coast?

The Central Coast has a diverse economy, with established strengths in healthcare, construction, retail, education, manufacturing, tourism and food production.

Major employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance, construction, retail trade, education and training, and accommodation and food services.

Manufacturing is also a significant economic contributor, particularly food and beverage production, supported by established businesses, local supply chains and emerging innovation capabilities.

The region’s growing population and proximity to Sydney and Newcastle support demand for housing, infrastructure, health services and local employment.

What business and investment opportunities exist on the Central Coast?

The Central Coast offers business and investment opportunities in advanced manufacturing, food and beverage production, healthcare, construction, tourism and technology.

Its location between Sydney and Newcastle provides access to major markets, transport connections and a substantial workforce.

The $17.14 million Central Coast Food Innovation Hub at Ourimbah is supporting food and beverage manufacturers to develop new products, strengthen capabilities and scale their businesses.

RDA Central Coast also works to attract infrastructure investment, support modern manufacturing and encourage business growth.

Businesses and investors can contact RDA Central Coast for local information and industry connections.

How can I contact RDA Central Coast for local information and assistance?

Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDA Central Coast) works with businesses, industry, government and communities to support economic development across the region.

Its priorities include attracting investment, supporting existing businesses, strengthening modern manufacturing, identifying infrastructure needs and addressing workforce and housing challenges.

Businesses, investors and other organisations seeking local expertise can contact RDA Central Coast directly.

RDA Sydney can also facilitate introductions between metropolitan stakeholders and RDA Central Coast through its concierge service.

Visit: RDA Central Coast