Business Newcastle

03/05/2026

Congratulations to our incoming Lord Mayor

16/04/2026

As Newcastle heads to the polls for the City of Newcastle Council Lord Mayor election, we encourage every voter to think about the small and medium businesses across our local government area that are doing it tough.

These businesses are the backbone of our city. They create local jobs, support families, bring life to our suburbs and city centre, and help shape the character of Newcastle. Right now, many are facing rising costs, tighter conditions and increasing pressure.

This election is an opportunity to think carefully about the future of our city and the kind of leadership that understands the challenges facing local business.

When you vote, consider which candidate will back practical policies that support business confidence, investment, accessibility, activation and a stronger local economy.

A thriving Newcastle depends on thriving local business.

Vote with small and medium business in mind.

12/03/2026

In April 2026, a byelection for Lord Mayor of Newcastle NSW will be held.
Business Newcastle (BN) is a not-for-profit organisation representing small to medium businesses in the Newcastle LGA. BN has agreed a set of priorities important to businesses in Newcastle, and we request the candidates for Lord Mayor comment on their position and intentions regarding these priorities.

1. A complete review of commercial rates including special rates applied to business. For example, there has been a rate applied to the mall properties since 1980 generating for council $80k annually without review. Commercial property rates are almost equal to Sydney’s CBD.
2. Graffiti in Newcastle is at unacceptable levels compromising the sense of place and security. Council should be able to control this by seeking permission from private property owners to remove the vandalism thereby acting for all, including public spaces. Establishing a “clean team” would be of great benefit to the city including suburban areas
3. Recently council appears to have invested in public relations at the expense of attending to primary aspects of a clean and safe environment, the basics of safe roads and footpaths.
4. Public transport in Newcastle is compromising effective environments for business and the community generally. Council needs to pressure federal and state governments to address the business case for and expansion of light rail and importantly an efficient, relevant and interconnected bus system.
5. Newcastle lacks a sense of purpose, a set of goals the community can relate to and aspire to progressing a sense of worth and ambition.
6. The current council has implemented delegated and discretionary powers which both constrain and enable the lord mayor, the general manager and councillors which retrospectively has resulted in poor outcomes for business and the community. These powers must be rebalanced.

17/02/2026

With the Newcastle Mayoral Election approaching, it’s a good time to stay informed about the issues that shape our city.

Local government decisions influence planning, infrastructure, events, and the overall business environment we all operate in. Business Newcastle encourages everyone to take the time to learn about the candidates and participate in the voting process.

No matter the outcome, our focus remains on supporting local business and working constructively to help Newcastle continue to grow and thrive.

09/02/2026

Business Newcastle Statement: Anzac Day Public Holiday Discussion

There’s been recent discussion about introducing a substitute public holiday when Anzac Day falls on a weekend.
For many Novocastrians, Anzac Day is a time for quiet reflection and remembrance. It’s a significant day in our national story and one that is observed with great respect across our community.
At the same time, decisions about additional public holidays can have real impacts on local businesses and workers. Small businesses often face higher wage costs and reduced productivity, while some casual employees may lose a day’s income if businesses close.
These are important considerations, and we believe the conversation should balance respect for the meaning of Anzac Day with an understanding of the realities facing Newcastle businesses and employees.
We welcome constructive discussion that supports both our community and our local economy.

25/12/2025

Buy local, shop local, spend local and eat local this holiday season. Support your local businesses and enjoy a safe, prosperous break.

11/12/2025

Peter Zygadlo has spent a considerable amount of time working on this concept ro improve the Hunter Street Mall

The attached poster outlines proposed improvements to make Hunter Street Mall Safe, Vibrant and Welcoming and to complement retained heritage façades.
The QR code on the post leads to Straw Poll voting platform where you could express your views.

Please note: If you are in the network environment please disconnect from Wi-Fi first and then vote with your phone as there only one vote per IP address and/or phone number.

05/12/2025

Now isn’t this groovy?

04/12/2025

Shop Local this Christmas and support your local small businesses.

Browse, shop, and feast in the city’s creative pocket. Read more: https://bit.ly/ShopNewcastle

27/10/2025

The Board of Business Newcastle adds its voice to those wishing Lord Mayor Kerridge a speedy recovery.

We appreciate how Ross has recognised the value business adds to the vibrancy and prosperity of the community.