Partnering councils identify mutually beneficial initiatives

Following the establishment of a strategic partnership in September 2025, Central Coast and Lake Macquarie City councils have come together for their first Stronger Together Councillor Workshop, delivered through the Steering Group to collaborate on areas of shared regional interest.

The partnership agreement specified that regular meetings would be held to progress priorities and projects, explore opportunities, and work collaboratively to address emerging issues. The next meeting is scheduled for November.

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna, Lake Macquarie City Mayor Adam Shultz, councillors and executive staff from both councils took part in the half-day workshop, exploring regional opportunities across transport and connectivity, infrastructure planning and growth, economic strategy, and shared services.

Mayor McKinna said the meeting was all about firsts and marked an important milestone in the partnership.

“This was about taking our first steps together and identifying tangible opportunities to work more closely as a region,” Mayor McKinna said.

“What stood out was the strength of the discussion across both councillors and executive teams. It was open, robust and focused on achieving the best outcomes for our communities.

“There is a clear commitment to looking beyond traditional local government boundaries and taking a more holistic, regional view of the opportunities and challenges we share.

“I’m excited by the potential of this partnership to drive better, more connected outcomes as our region continues to grow.

“Enormous thanks to Mayor Adam Shultz and his team for their collaboration in what was an incredibly productive workshop.”

Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said this partnership created a stronger, more united voice, with this week’s councillor workshop building on that momentum.

“Together, our two local government areas represent almost 600,000 people, giving us real strength when it comes to advocating for our shared priorities,” Mayor Shultz said.

“The workshop provided a valuable opportunity to discuss projects that span both LGAs, including shared pathways and health initiatives.

“It was a strong and positive step to bring councillors and executives together in one room. I thank Mayor Lawrie McKinna and his council for their collaboration, hard work and commitment to working together for the benefit of both our communities.”

A number of promising projects and initiatives were identified during the workshop and will now be explored further to help shape future joint planning, advocacy, and service delivery.

ENDS
Image:  Central Coast and Lake Macquarie councillors and executive who attended the workshop