The document proposes the "The Waters" Retirement Living Project, to be located on approximately seven hectares near the Shortland Waters Golf Club in Newcastle, NSW. The development would include over 300 independent living units, 130 low/high care units, a golf clubhouse, motel, and recreational facilities. It is well-located near hospitals, universities, shopping centers, and public transportation. Initial discussions with the local council indicate support for the proposal.
Welcome to Beach Republic
(http://www.beachrepublic.com - http://www.beachrepubliclife.com - http://www.beachrepublicestates.com)
Located at the Northern tip of Lamai Beach, Koh Samui Thailand, the multi-award winning Beach Republic The Residences makes owning Samui Real Estate simple and hassle free. The resort has been recognized as the premier shared ownership development in South East Asia and one of the most attractive Koh Samui real estate investments. In just the last year, it has been honored at the 2011 South East Asia Property Awards and the 2011 Overseas Property Professionals (OPP) Awards for Excellence, has been named one of South East Asia's top 20 resorts by Property Report, and has twice been crowned the winner in the category of Best Shared Ownership Development at the prestigious Thailand Property Awards. Shared or fractional ownership at Beach Republic The Residences allows an individual to purchase Koh Samui real estate without assuming any of the burdens that often come with sole ownership and Thailand real estate ownership in general. It is especially attractive to those who want to make use of a holiday home for only a few weeks or months a year. Increasingly it is also attracting investors who see returns via rental income and capital appreciation of their Samui real estate.With 39 units to choose from including spacious suites, Private Pool Villas, and Penthouse Sky Pool Villas, Beach Republic The Residences offers all the comforts and amenities of a luxurious Koh Samui resort. Unlike other Koh Samui real estate and indeed Thailand real estate options, owners at Beach Republic The Residences enjoy privileged access to the adjacent Ocean Club and Spa. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, it has been called a must-visit destination by The New York Times and CNNGo.com.
by Neal Payton in Tel-Aviv for the Israeli Mayors Institute, founded by the Movement for Israeli Urbanism - www.miu.org.il
Deferential Urbanism: The Charrette Process and its Effect on Place-making and City Design
Welcome to Beach Republic
(http://www.beachrepublic.com - http://www.beachrepubliclife.com - http://www.beachrepublicestates.com)
Located at the Northern tip of Lamai Beach, Koh Samui Thailand, the multi-award winning Beach Republic The Residences makes owning Samui Real Estate simple and hassle free. The resort has been recognized as the premier shared ownership development in South East Asia and one of the most attractive Koh Samui real estate investments. In just the last year, it has been honored at the 2011 South East Asia Property Awards and the 2011 Overseas Property Professionals (OPP) Awards for Excellence, has been named one of South East Asia's top 20 resorts by Property Report, and has twice been crowned the winner in the category of Best Shared Ownership Development at the prestigious Thailand Property Awards. Shared or fractional ownership at Beach Republic The Residences allows an individual to purchase Koh Samui real estate without assuming any of the burdens that often come with sole ownership and Thailand real estate ownership in general. It is especially attractive to those who want to make use of a holiday home for only a few weeks or months a year. Increasingly it is also attracting investors who see returns via rental income and capital appreciation of their Samui real estate.With 39 units to choose from including spacious suites, Private Pool Villas, and Penthouse Sky Pool Villas, Beach Republic The Residences offers all the comforts and amenities of a luxurious Koh Samui resort. Unlike other Koh Samui real estate and indeed Thailand real estate options, owners at Beach Republic The Residences enjoy privileged access to the adjacent Ocean Club and Spa. A favorite of locals and tourists alike, it has been called a must-visit destination by The New York Times and CNNGo.com.
by Neal Payton in Tel-Aviv for the Israeli Mayors Institute, founded by the Movement for Israeli Urbanism - www.miu.org.il
Deferential Urbanism: The Charrette Process and its Effect on Place-making and City Design
Water's Edge at Hebbal, Bangalore by Equinox - Price, Rates, Brochure, Locati...IGotMyDeal
Sales: +91 9820575619, A super luxury project - Water's Edge in Hebbal, Bangalore is indeed the flagship residential project developed by Equinox Realty. The project has been designed as ultra prime residential development with the best of planning in terms of the project layout, apartment designs as well as the amenities and facilities offered to the discerning buyers.
Perfectly situated in the very vibrant neighborhood of Hebbal very close to the ring road, Water's Edge is also in close proximity to the enchanting Nagawara Lake. So apart from the quality homes you also have the beautiful lake view to savor for the rest of your lives. Connectivity is also a major plus for this project as it is very close to all major residential and commercial activity centres like Dollars Colony, RMV, Sadashiv Nagar and MG Road, etc.
The Team behind the marvel called Water's Edge – Hebbal, Bangalore
Architect — P&T Consultants, Singapore
Structural and Services Consultants — Buro Happold, UK
Landscape Consultants — Site Concepts, Singapore
Tower 3 and Clubhouse Design — Jade Jagger for yoo
Construction — Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
Presentation by City of Coventry Swimming Club to Coventry City Council detailing the economic and social benefits of keeping a 50m swimming pool in Coventry
Alta Vista | | 99679 06996 | Way2wealthrealtyvivek pandey
AltaVista in Chembur is a gated community which utilizes the old world charm of this central suburb in Mumbai marrying it with amenities of a club house, a terrace walk and majestic entrance lobbies to create an enviable living space. Creating real homes for real people, with real prices is Spenta Corporations specialty and AltaVista in Chembur is a replica of that testimony. AltaVista offers over 1000+ semi furnished apartments designed to meet disparate needs. Bringing together the best resources and the best team, AltaVista has been designed by Hafeez Contractor. Inspired by the elements of nature, the endeavor is to create an aura of peace, quiet and tranquility while still providing the amenities that the modern discerning customer has become accustomed to.
AltaVista in Chembur is a gated community which utilizes the old world charm of this central suburb in Mumbai marrying it with amenities of a club house, a terrace walk and majestic entrance lobbies to create an enviable living space. Creating real homes for real people, with real prices is Spenta Corporations specialty and AltaVista in Chembur is a replica of that testimony. AltaVista offers over 1000+ semi furnished apartments designed to meet disparate needs. Bringing together the best resources and the best team, AltaVista has been designed by Hafeez Contractor. Inspired by the elements of nature, the endeavor is to create an aura of peace, quiet and tranquility while still providing the amenities that the modern discerning customer has become accustomed to.
Sobha gateway of Dreams provides you the luxurious style of living ensures complete privacy and also renders a comfortable life. Sobha gateway of Dreams has a sole aim to guide the prospective buyers of apartments.
Navin's Starwood Towers is an elegantly built residential condominium that comprise of 958 apartments. Being fully equipped, this project is a 14 floor township which includes basement plus stilts spread across eight towers. Strategically located in Vengaivasal, the project has good accessibility to localities such Velachery, OMR (IT Corridor) and Pallavaram, adjoining Medavakkam on the Mambakkam main road.
Water's Edge at Hebbal, Bangalore by Equinox - Price, Rates, Brochure, Locati...IGotMyDeal
Sales: +91 9820575619, A super luxury project - Water's Edge in Hebbal, Bangalore is indeed the flagship residential project developed by Equinox Realty. The project has been designed as ultra prime residential development with the best of planning in terms of the project layout, apartment designs as well as the amenities and facilities offered to the discerning buyers.
Perfectly situated in the very vibrant neighborhood of Hebbal very close to the ring road, Water's Edge is also in close proximity to the enchanting Nagawara Lake. So apart from the quality homes you also have the beautiful lake view to savor for the rest of your lives. Connectivity is also a major plus for this project as it is very close to all major residential and commercial activity centres like Dollars Colony, RMV, Sadashiv Nagar and MG Road, etc.
The Team behind the marvel called Water's Edge – Hebbal, Bangalore
Architect — P&T Consultants, Singapore
Structural and Services Consultants — Buro Happold, UK
Landscape Consultants — Site Concepts, Singapore
Tower 3 and Clubhouse Design — Jade Jagger for yoo
Construction — Larsen & Toubro Ltd.
Presentation by City of Coventry Swimming Club to Coventry City Council detailing the economic and social benefits of keeping a 50m swimming pool in Coventry
Alta Vista | | 99679 06996 | Way2wealthrealtyvivek pandey
AltaVista in Chembur is a gated community which utilizes the old world charm of this central suburb in Mumbai marrying it with amenities of a club house, a terrace walk and majestic entrance lobbies to create an enviable living space. Creating real homes for real people, with real prices is Spenta Corporations specialty and AltaVista in Chembur is a replica of that testimony. AltaVista offers over 1000+ semi furnished apartments designed to meet disparate needs. Bringing together the best resources and the best team, AltaVista has been designed by Hafeez Contractor. Inspired by the elements of nature, the endeavor is to create an aura of peace, quiet and tranquility while still providing the amenities that the modern discerning customer has become accustomed to.
AltaVista in Chembur is a gated community which utilizes the old world charm of this central suburb in Mumbai marrying it with amenities of a club house, a terrace walk and majestic entrance lobbies to create an enviable living space. Creating real homes for real people, with real prices is Spenta Corporations specialty and AltaVista in Chembur is a replica of that testimony. AltaVista offers over 1000+ semi furnished apartments designed to meet disparate needs. Bringing together the best resources and the best team, AltaVista has been designed by Hafeez Contractor. Inspired by the elements of nature, the endeavor is to create an aura of peace, quiet and tranquility while still providing the amenities that the modern discerning customer has become accustomed to.
Sobha gateway of Dreams provides you the luxurious style of living ensures complete privacy and also renders a comfortable life. Sobha gateway of Dreams has a sole aim to guide the prospective buyers of apartments.
Navin's Starwood Towers is an elegantly built residential condominium that comprise of 958 apartments. Being fully equipped, this project is a 14 floor township which includes basement plus stilts spread across eight towers. Strategically located in Vengaivasal, the project has good accessibility to localities such Velachery, OMR (IT Corridor) and Pallavaram, adjoining Medavakkam on the Mambakkam main road.
1. “The Waters” Retirement Living
Development Proposal
Synergy Business Centre
PO Box 5335,
Wollongong NSW 2520
Level 1, 1 Burelli Street,
Wollongong NSW 2500
P: 02 4254 1054
F: 02 4254 1001
W: www.chamberdevelopments.com.au
2. Contents
Location 4
Access 5
• By Car 5
• By Bus 5
• By Train 5
• By Plane 5
Capacity 6
Council Support 8
Local Services and Activities 9
• Hospitals 9
• Shopping Centres 9
• The University of Newcastle 9
• Shortland Waters Golf Club 10
• The Forum Sport and Aquatic Centre 10
• Volunteering 11
• The Hunter Valley 11
Demographics 12
• Current Demographics 12
• Projected Population Growth 12
Retirement Living in Newcastle 13
Real Estate Sales History – Newcastle 15
• Median House and Unit Sales 16
• Recent Sales in Newcastle 16
Construction Schedule 17
Resources 17
Reports 17
Qualifier 17
Appendices 18
• Appendix A 18
• Appendix B 21
• Appendix C 49
• Appendix D 59
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 2
3. Chamber Developments is proud to propose
“The Waters” Retirement Living Project for
your consideration. We believe this project
has the opportunity to provide a financially
viable, sustainable and, most importantly,
engaging retirement community for the
population of Newcastle and its surrounding
suburbs.
“The Waters” (our working title) will be the
latest in resort-style retirement living for
discerning retirees who wish to pursue
their interests and hobbies in a modern,
sophisticated environment.
“The Waters” is perfectly positioned on the
grounds of a popular golfing facility. As part
of the development of the site, Chamber
Developments will be constructing a new
Golf Clubhouse which will feature a bistro,
gaming rooms, bar and conference facilities
as well as upgrading the golf course. In
addition, a motel will be built, serving not only
golfing tourists and visitors to the conference
centre, but also the families and friends of the
residents of “The Waters” who will be able to
visit in ease and comfort.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 3
4. Location
“The Waters” in relation to NSW
“The Waters”
“The Waters” in relation to Newcastle
“The Waters”
The proposed “The Waters” Retirement Living Project is ensures residents will have access to a broad range of
situated on approximately seven hectares of land which activities outside of the environs of the retirement precinct
fronts the Shortland Waters Golf Club and adjoins the itself. Chamber Developments believe this unique location
University of Newcastle and “The Forum” Health and will ensure the Village will garner much interest from
Aquatic Centre. “The Waters”’ prominent location between potential residents interested in pursuing active and fulfilling
the University, Golf Club and Health and Aquatic Centre lives in retirement.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 4
5. Access
By Car
The proposed project is 12 kilometres from Newcastle CBD
and two hours from Sydney on the F3. The site is adjacent
to the F3 Sydney to Newcastle extension, ensuring ease
of access for families located in either city. In addition, the
thriving communities of Hunter Valley and Port Stephens
are also within easy distance of the project.
By Bus
Residents of “The Waters” Retirement Living Project will
enjoy ease of travel thanks to the well-serviced University
of Newcastle campus. The university is serviced by
regular buses to Newcastle and the surrounding suburbs,
including:
• Newcastle City
• Charlestown
• Lake Macquarie
• Glendale
• Cessnock / Kurri Kurri
• Raymond Terrace
• Medowie / Stockton
• Port Stephens
• North Coast.
By Train
The site is easily accessible by public transport with the
University / Warabrook Station only 500 metres away. This
station is fully disabled accessible. Trains leave regularly
from this station for:
• Newcastle City
• Maitland
• Lake Macquarie
• Central Coast / Sydney
• Taree / Dungog
• Upper Hunter Valley
• Brisbane.
By Plane
For inter-state and international families, Newcastle
Williamtown Airport is located approximately 25 kilometres
from the proposed site. It is the fastest growing regional
airport in Australia with over one million people travelling
via the airport in 2009.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 5
6. Capacity
“The Waters” Retirement Living Project is capable of providing the full range of accommodation options. Potential
residents will enjoy the flexibility of choice and can be assured there will be an accommodation type to suit their needs.
New Site Plan
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 6
7. Chamber Development’s concept design is for:
Precinct B – Existing Club Site
(to be demolished)
• Commercial 1500m²
• Independent Living Units 90 units
- 22% – 3 bed
- 56% – 2 bed
- 22% – 1 bed
• Golf Course Villas 22 units
- 10% – 3 bed
- 90% – 2 bed
Precinct C – Seniors Living
• Low/Highcare 130 single room units
(30m²/room) 3900m²
• Community/Admin Facility 1500m²
• Commercial/Lifestyle/Health 500m²
• Independent Living Units 180 units
- 22% – 3 bed
- 56% – 2 bed
- 22% – 1 bed
• Golf Course Villas 54 units
- 10% – 3 bed
- 90% – 2 bed
Precinct A – New Club Site
• Golf club 1500m²
• Proshop and Storage 500m²
• Recreation and Lifestyle 800m²
• Multipurpose Function Centre 1200m²
• Motel 60 rooms 2000m²
These plans are a Concept Design and have been
developed by BHI Architects in response to Chamber
Development’s studies of the site and market. However,
should you wish to proceed with the project, we look
forward to the opportunity to further develop these plans
jointly with you in order to ensure final plans are suitable
to your needs prior to submission of the Development
Application.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 7
8. View to Clubhouse
Council Support
The site currently has Development Approval for the construction of tourist and residential units. However, Chamber
Developments believes that these plans are unsuitable and have therefore proposed layout which will require a new
Development Application.
Consultation with town planners Worley Parsons indicate that the proposed plan is within the purpose of the Newcastle
Environmental Plan 2003 (NLEP 2003) and the State Environmental Planning Policy Local Housing for Seniors or People
with a Disability, 2004 (Housing for Seniors SEPP). In initial discussions with Newcastle City Council, their Town Planners
advise that the proposed plan is much more sustainable than the previously approved plan (See Appendix A).
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 8
10. Recreational
Activities
Shortland Waters Golf Club
Shortland Waters Golf Club is a privately owned club with
an 18-hole, par 71, 5,931-metre golf course. Established
in 1935, the course has a strong local history and was the
social mecca for nearby steelworkers.
In association with the development of the “The Waters”
Retirement Living Project, the Golf Clubhouse will be
completely rebuilt. In addition, the course itself will be
upgraded. The brand new facilities will draw golfing
enthusiasts to the area, and golfing retirees to the “The
Waters”.
The Clubhouse will provide residents of “The Waters”
with excellent services, including a bistro, bar and gaming
facilities. In addition there will be conference rooms which
residents can hire for events and functions. A motel
will be constructed with the new clubhouse, providing
families and friends and the residents with superb short-
term accommodation close to the “The Waters”.
The Forum Sport and
Aquatic Centre
“The Waters” is located just 200 metres from “The
Forum” Sport and Aquatic Centre. The centre is on the
grounds of the University of Newcastle and services the
fitness needs of students and residents of surrounding
suburbs.
The Centre has:
• An Olympic standard eight-lane, 50-metre
swimming pool which is heated in the winter
• Aerobics studios
• 90 group fitness classes a week in the pool
and studios
• Regular health and wellness seminars
• Private training studios
• Tennis centre
• Squash complex
• Five sport ovals.
Residents of “The Waters” will enjoy access to this
facility, with improved health and wellbeing through
fitness and physical activities.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 10
11. Volunteering
Chamber Developments recognises that giving something
back to the community will be important to many of the
residents of “The Waters”. Located in the immediate area
is the extremely popular Hunter Wetlands Centre, where
many local residents volunteer.
“The Hunter Wetlands Centre Australia is a vibrant
wetland ecosystem bursting with life. The site is regarded
as a wetland of national and international importance
and the centre enjoys a growing reputation for excellence
in wetland conservation, education and ecotourism.”
(Source: The Hunter Wetlands Centre website.) The
centre actively encourages volunteering and has an
extremely professional and robust volunteering network
for people wishing to contribute both indoors and
outdoors.
The Hunter Valley
“The Waters” is located 45 kilometres from the famous
Hunter Valley region – one of Australia’s oldest and
one of its most well-known wine regions. The Hunter
is a popular tourist and holiday location which features
over 60 restaurants, 120 wineries, 160 accommodation
venues and a vast range of activities, including visiting
cellar doors, antique stores or visiting historic towns and
indigenous sites.
In addition to being famous for food and wine, the Hunter
Valley has also made a name for producing some of the
most spectacular events. There are festivals celebrating
the local produce, such as Lovedale Long Lunch and
Semillon and Seafood and concerts featuring the world’s
top musicians, including Jazz in the Vines and Opera in
the Vineyards.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 11
12. Demographics
Current demographics
The total population of Newcastle and Hunter Region is, years of 55–64, with 2.6%, as shown in the table below.
according to figures released by Global PDC Demographics (These figures are current to the last census in 2006.)
and the Australian Bureau of Statistics, growing These figures indicate there will be a strong on-going
significantly year on year, with an average growth rate of market for retirement living as the pre-retirement segment
0.6%. The most significant increase is in the pre-retirement of the population moves into the retirement bracket.
Average Annual
Newcastle 1996 2001 2006
Change 1996-2006
0–14 years 23,684 24,336 24,320 0.3%
15–24 years 21,614 20,545 21,757 0.1%
25–39 years 30,435 29,960 29,725 -0.2%
40–54 years 24,059 27,083 28,922 1.9%
55–64 years 11,339 12,342 14,623 2.6%
65+ years 22,458 22,355 22,405 0.0%
Total 133,589 136,621 141,752 0.6%
Demographics in the Region of Newcastle. Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics 1996 and 2006
The demographics of the Hunter region as a whole is can be seen in the table below, there are significant
recognised to be aging. The ratio of the number of people percentage differences between the Hunter Region and
aged 65 years and over to the number of working age NSW, suggesting that there will be a greater demand for
people aged 15–64 years is higher in the Hunter Region retirement living in the Hunter than elsewhere in the state.
than anywhere else in NSW with 25 per cent compared with
21 per cent respectively. It has been recognised that the It is also worth noting that, according to the Hunter
“major challenges of the future … are the need to provide the Valley Research Foundation, there was an increase in the
infrastructure and services required for the aging population” male population in the older years over the last decade,
(“Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008–2009”, Hunter Valley suggesting a substantial improvement in men’s health and
Research Foundation, pg. 9, attached as Appendix B). there is the expectancy that men’s health in the region will
The Hunter Region has a higher percentage of over 55s continue to improve, placing an even higher demand on
compared with NSW as a whole – 27.4% to 24.4%. As retirement housing.
Hunter NSW
Males Females Persons Males Females Persons
Proportion Total Proportion Total
of Total Change of Total Change
Population ‘96–‘06 Population ‘96—‘06
55—59 years 6.5% 6.4% 6.4% 51.9% 6.2% 6.1% 6.1% 45.8%
60–64 years 5.5% 5.4% 5.4% 38.0% 4.9% 4.8% 4.8% 32.7%
65–69 years 4.4% 4.4% 4.4% 5.3% 3.9% 3.9% 3.9% 6.8%
70–74 years 3.1% 3.7% 3.4% 31.0% 2.6% 3.1% 2.9% 26.3%
75–79 years 3.1% 3.7% 3.4% 31.0% 2.6% 3.1% 2.9% 26.3%
80–84 years 2.1% 2.9% 2.5% 52.5% 1.8% 2.5% 2.1% 43.5%
85+ years 1.2% 2.6% 1.9% 71.6% 1.1% 2.3% 1.7% 61.6%
Total % of
22.8% 29.1% 27.4% 23.1% 25.8% 24.4%
population
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census for Population and Housing, 1996 and 2006
Projected population growth
The population of the Hunter Region is predicted to grow by 2026. This will create a pressure on housing availability
in the coming decades, with the older population (ages 60 in the retirement sector in particular and on organisations
years and over) expected to increase from 21.4% of the providing aged care.
total population in 2006 to 27.9% of the total population
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 12
13. Retirement Living
in Newcastle
Chamber Developments completed a survey of retirement Greenleaf Ashton Gardens,
villages in Newcastle and to confirm it’s findings
commissioned Robden Property Services to conduct a survey East Maitland
and report on its findings (See Appendix C – Robden Property
This village is approximately 20 kilometres from Shortland
Services and Capability Statement). The report indicates there
and was opened in 2003. Ashton Gardens consists of
is currently a range of retirement villages within a 25-kilometre
57 two- and three-bedroom units. The prices of the units
radius of the proposed “The Waters” Retirement Living Project.
are comparable to Belmont North. The village is located
The vast majority are villages that are 10 to 15 years old.
adjacent to the New England Highway and is close to a large
There appears to be seven main retirement villages within shopping centre. The site does not have any advantageous
the specified radius of “The Waters”. These villages are outlooks but does have a private hospital nearby.
both privately run and not-for-profits and offer varying
standards of living for residents.
Greenleaf Terrace Gardens,
Greenleaf Belmont North Raymond Terrace
This village is within 10 kilometres of “The Waters” and Terrace Gardens is approximately 20 kilometres from
is currently selling units in Stage 2 of the project. There Shortland and was opened in 2005. It is smaller than the
are currently 44 completed units in Stages 1 and 2 with other Greenleaf facilities with only 20 units on site and no
a planned total of 97 units when all stages have been more construction is planned.
completed. This village is approximately five years old and
has seen reasonably strong sales with two-bedroom units
selling for an average of $415,000 and three-bedroom units Bayside, Bonnells Bay
selling for an average of $435,000.
Bayside opened in 1997 and is located approximately
The units are average 90–100 square metres for a two- 15 kilometres from “The Waters”. The village is operated
bedroom unit with a single lock-up garage. In addition, some by Lend Lease Prime Life, who have a large portfolio of
units also have a parking bay or carport. villages scattered up the eastern sea board.
The site could be considered to have distant ocean views It has 237 two- and three-bedroom units, with the two-
from some spots, although the terrain is reasonably hilly and bedroom units currently selling for $300,000. Bayside is
while construction is ongoing, the landscaping is minimal. It located close to Lake Macquarie with many onsite facilities
is located close to a moderate sized shopping centre. including 24-hour call assistance, landscaped gardens
and a village bus. It is located five kilometres from a major
shopping area.
B C
“The Waters”
Key
A Greenleaf Belmont North
B Greenleaf Ashton Gardens,
E
East Maitland
C Greenleaf Terrace Gardens,
Raymond Terrace
F
G D Bayside, Bonnells Bay
E Maroba, Waratah
A
F Bolton Point RSL Care
G C A Brown Booragul
D
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 13
14. Maroba, Waratah
Maroba is operated by a not-for-profit organisation and is
the only retirement living development within a 25-kilometre
radius that has both low care and high care facilities co-
existing with independent living units on the same site.
Waratah is an inner suburb of Newcastle and the village has
views across Newcastle to the coast.
The independent living village first opened 10 years ago and
a second stage was completed in the last five years. Maroba
consists mostly of two-bedroom units with a few one- and
three-bedroom units. There are a total of 40 units in the
facility with two-bedroom units selling for $325,000. There
is a planned addition to the village of a five-storey serviced
apartment block with extensive city and coastal views. These
apartments will be two- and three-bedrooms and up to 110
square metres. The operator is hoping to achieve a yield in the
vicinity of another 40 units, subject to Council approvals.
Bolton Point RSL Care
Among the other villages in the area, the largest is Bolton
Point RSL Care with around 60 units on site. These
units have extensive views of Lake Macquarie and are
approximately 15 kilometres from Shortland. The village
underwent refurbishment approximately six years ago.
Sales of two-bedroom units is believed to be in the mid-
$300,000s, however the operator was not in a position
to reveal current prices due to the licence agreement
arrangement which sees prices matched to clients’ wealth.
C A Brown Booragul
This is also a not-for-profit complex run by the Anglican
Church and has a high- and low-care facility attached.
Many of the units are more than 20 years old, however a
number were refurbished approximately eight years ago.
The village does not have any significant views and is
located close to the main northern rail line and is subject
to constant train noise. Prices in this village range from the
mid-$100,000s for an older one-bedroom unit to $300,000
for newer two- and three-bedroom units.
Market observations indicate that prospective buyers
are requiring two-bedroom units as a minimum, with
three-bedroom units becoming increasingly popular as
this allows family and, more frequently, grandchildren
to visit and stay with ease and comfort. The not-for-
profit sector is struggling to find a ready market with
ageing units. Yet some prospective residents regard the
Church organisations as providing continuity of care from
independent living units through to higher care as they age.
The result is a split in the Newcastle market – Church
organisations which are operating retirement living as
complete campuses (including low and high care) and
private organisations which supply the market as “Over
55” villages. The majority of these “over 55s” villages offer
a lifestyle to retirees, rather than aged care. Prospective
residents can be enticed from their suburban homes to
units providing the complex offers an open and active
lifestyle, with facilities that appeals to an active and
interested group of retirees.
A sample of brochures for these villages can be found in
Appendix D.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 14
15. Real Estate Sale History –
Newcastle
Median house and unit prices in Newcastle have enjoyed to $410,000 in 2009. In addition, as can be seen from
steady gains in the last ten years, with the median house the graph below (with the exception of a traditional pre-
price rising from $357,000 in 2001 to $600,000 in 2009. Christmas dip), demand for the property in Newcastle is
Units have also seen gains, rising from $309,000 in 2001 meeting or outstripping supply.
Median sale prices in Newcastle
Median House Price
Median Unit Price
$500K
$400K
$300K
$0K
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2010
Supply and Demand for properties in Newcastle
Advertised properties (Supply) People looking (Demand)
1,500
150
1,000
100
500
50
0 0
Sep 09 Oct 09 Nov 09 Dec 09 Jan 10
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 15
16. Median House and Unit Sales
Median House House Price % Unit Price %
Year Median Unit Price
Price Change (YoY) Change (YoY)
2001 $357,000 35.4% $309,000 -13.0%
2002 $370,000 3.6% $369,000 19.4%
2003 $365,900 -1.1% $449,000 21.7%
2004 $535,000 46.2% $510,000 13.6%
2005 $346,750 -35.2% $450,000 -11.8%
2006 $545,000 57.2% $552,521 22.8%
2007 $555,000 1.8% $445,000 19.5%
2008 $640,000 15.3% $416,000 -6.5%
2009 $600,000 -6.3% $410,000 -1.4%
Source: MyRPData.com
Recent Sales in Newcastle
Address Type Price Sale Type Beds Sale Date
12 Perkins Street House $495,000 Normal Sale - 23/12/09
307/4 Honeysuckle Dr Unit $440,000 Normal Sale 2 09/12/09
38 Wolfe St House $650,000 Normal Sale - 15/12/09
307/4 Honeysuckle Dr Unit $440,000 Normal Sale 2 09/12/09
36 Wolfe St House $650,000 Normal Sale 3 30/11/09
38 Wolfe St House $650,000 Normal Sale - 15/12/09
37 Perkins St House $440,000 Normal Sale 2 29/10/09
35 Perkins St House $400,000 Normal Sale 2 07/10/09
Source: MyRPData.com
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 16
17. Construction Resources
Schedule In the preparation of its projects, Chamber Developments
has an association with, and draws on the resources of:
• BHI – Architects
It is envisaged that “The Waters” project would be
• Coffey Projects – Project Managers
constructed in stages. As Chamber Developments will
be required to rebuild the clubhouse and those golf • Dean Dransfield – Hotel and Resort Consultants
holes that will be consumed by the project, it will be • HWL Ebsworth – Solicitors
necessary to integrate construction schedules to allow • JBA – Urban Planning
the uninterrupted operation of the golf club and course.
• Miller & Miller Strategic Communications Consultants
• Mitchell Brandtman – Quantity Surveyors
• Richard Chamberlain – Golf Course Architect
• Robden Property Services – Retirement Living
Consultant
• Whelans Insites – Surveyors and Development
Consultants
• Worley Parsons – Urban and Town Planning
Reports
The following reports were completed as part of two
Development Applications which were approved for
Tourism at Shortland Waters Golf Club. These reports are
to be updated as a requirement for the new Development
Applications for the redevelopment of the club house,
golfing facilities and The Waters Retirement Village. These
reports may be used to gain knowledge of the site and
will be made available on request.
• Bushfire Threat Assessment by Harper Sommer
O’Sullivan, dated July 2005
• Contamination Testing Report by Douglas Partners,
dated July 2005
• Drainage Plan & Report by Geoff Craig & Associates
• Ecological Assessment by Warren Brown, dated 11
July 2005
• Geotechnical Investigation by Douglas Partners,
dated July 2005
• Landscape Design Report by Verge Landscape
Architects
• Noise Impact Assessment by Hunter Land Holdings
Pty Ltd, dated July 2005
• Traffic Assessment Report by LB Dowling &
Associates Pty Ltd, dated 14 July 2005
Qualifier
This Development Proposal has been prepared solely
for information purposes and to assist the purchaser in
evaluating the offer proposed recognising that it may not
contain all the required information. Neither Chamber
Developments or its advisers have independently
verified all of the information or data contained in this
Development Proposal. Certain information contained in
this Development Proposal has been supplied by Shortland
Waters Golf Club and consultants engaged by it. These
consultants are not presently engaged by Chamber
Developments. It is anticipated that the purchaser will make
its own investigations and analysis of the offer and the
contents of this Development Proposal.
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 17
19.
Incorporating
Planning Workshop Australia
Proposed Shortland Waters Development
Meeting with Newcastle City Council Officers 2 March 2010
In attendance:
[DJ]- Damian Jaegar, Senior Development Officer/ Town Planner, Newcastle City Council (NCC)
[DR]- David Reiner, Senior Development Officer (Acting Development Building Coordinator), NCC
[BB]- Brian Brown, Director, Chamber Developments
[MS]- Mark Stone, Director, Chamber Developments
[KT]- Kevin Taylor, Director, Chamber Developments
[GF]- Garry Fielding, NSW Manager Planning & Approvals, WorleyParsons
GF provided an outline of the development proposal for the Shortland Waters site,
referring to the Preliminary Masterplan prepared by bhi Architecture. He indicated the
intention to develop a new clubhouse, function centre and restaurant in the portion of the
site the subject of Council’s consent for tourist accommodation near the western boundary
of the site, immediately to the south-west of the Chichester pipeline; the development of
approximately 250 seniors’ housing Self-Contained Dwellings adjacent to the southern
and south-western boundary of the site; a nursing home within the south-eastern corner of
the site; and a medical centre and convenience shops, either adjacent to the proposed
nursing home or in the south-western corner of the site. It was also indicated that the two
fairways displaced by the proposed development adjacent to the south-eastern boundary
of the site, would be relocated to the Council owned land (former garbage tip) immediately
to the north-east of the site.
GF indicated that the proposed development was permissible under the Newcastle Local
Environmental Plan 2003 (NLEP 2003) and the State Environmental Planning Policy
(Housing for Seniors or People with a Disability) 2004 (Housing for Seniors SEPP),
referring particularly to the provisions of the SEPP concerning seniors’ housing on land
used for the purposes of an existing registered club.
GF outlined the locational advantages the site offered for seniors’ housing development,
noting its close proximity to the facilities at the University of Newcastle, including the
Forum indoor sports centre and pool and the University library. He also referred to the
potential for the site to utilise the nearby Warabrook train station.
DJ responded by confirming the permissibility of the proposed development under NLEP
2003 and the SEPP. He indicated the need to address bushfire protection measures,
noise impacts associated with the railway line and overall traffic management. He
particularly noted the need to avoid road links to the University road system that would
encourage ‘rat runs’ from the University to the bridge access across Jesmond Bypass
Road.
10 March 2010
Shortland Waters meeting notes 2 Mar 2010.doc CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 19
20. Incorporating
Planning Workshop Australia
BB and KT advised that the development could be undertaken in stages, with the first
stage comprising the new clubhouse/ function centre and the relocation of the two
fairways onto the land currently owned by NCC. They also indicated they had received
support for the proposal through discussions with University officials.
GF advised that the next step in the planning process was to lodge an application for a
Site Compatibility Certificate with the Department of Planning (DoP). Assuming this would
be granted by DoP, a further meeting with Council officers would then be arranged to
discuss in detail the development proposed for the site.
Notes prepared by GF.
Shortland Waters meeting notes 2 Mar 2010.doc 2 4 March 2010
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 20
21. Appendix B –
“Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008–2009”, Hunter Valley
Research Foundation Report
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 21
22. Population and demography
Age The growth of the regional population is considered according to major sub-
regions in the Hunter (the Lower Hunter, Upper Hunter and Other Hunter),
distribution followed by a summary for the Region as a whole.
and growth The population of the Lower Hunter totalled 493,462 persons in 2006. The
1996 – 2006 most populous local government areas (LGAs) were Lake Macquarie
(183,139) and Newcastle (141,752). Over the 10 years between 1996
and 2006:
Lower Hunter
• The population of the sub-Region grew at an average annual rate of 0.9
per cent, slightly higher than the rate for the whole of the Hunter Region
(0.8 per cent) and equivalent to the average rate of growth for the State.
• The fastest growing LGAs were Maitland and Port Stephens, increasing
at an average annual rate of 2.1 per cent and 1.7 per cent respectively.
• The slowest growing LGAs were Cessnock, where the population
increased at an average rate of 0.3 per cent per annum, followed by
Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, each with an average rate of growth of
0.6 per cent per annum.
The chart below compares growth rates in each of the Lower Hunter LGAs,
the sub-Region in total, the Hunter and State. Details of the age
distribution in the Lower Hunter are provided in the table over.
Average annual rate of population change, Lower Hunter, 1996 - 2006
2.5%
2.1%
2.0%
1.7%
1.5%
1.0% 0.9% 0.8% 0.9%
0.6% 0.6%
0.5% 0.3%
0.0%
Maitland Port Newcastle Lake Cessnock Lower Hunter NSW
Stephens Macquarie Hunter total
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009 1
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 22
23. Age distribution and change, Lower Hunter, 1996 - 2006
Average Average
annual annual
change change
1996 2001 2006 '96–'06 1996 2001 2006 '96–'06
Cessnock Lake Macquarie
0-14 years 10,553 10,218 10,043 -0.5% 38,099 37,809 35,872 -0.6%
15-24 years 6,167 5,880 5,875 -0.5% 22,955 22,684 23,158 0.1%
25-39 years 9,744 8,999 8,707 -1.1% 35,613 34,004 31,326 -1.3%
40-54 years 8,951 9,820 9,725 0.8% 35,846 38,992 39,066 0.9%
55-64 years 3,557 4,354 5,575 4.6% 15,989 19,147 22,969 3.7%
65+ years 5,763 6,106 6,281 0.9% 24,223 27,679 30,748 2.4%
Total 44,735 45,377 46,206 0.3% 172,725 180,315 183,139 0.6%
Maitland Newcastle
0-14 years 12,520 12,983 14,208 1.3% 23,684 24,336 24,320 0.3%
15-24 years 7,362 7,626 8,430 1.4% 21,614 20,545 21,757 0.1%
25-39 years 11,351 11,290 12,553 1.0% 30,435 29,960 29,725 -0.2%
40-54 years 10,111 11,664 12,960 2.5% 24,059 27,083 28,922 1.9%
55-64 years 3,628 4,717 6,495 6.0% 11,339 12,342 14,623 2.6%
65+ years 5,352 6,110 7,235 3.1% 22,458 22,355 22,405 0.0%
Total 50,324 54,390 61,881 2.1% 133,589 136,621 141,752 0.6%
Port Stephens Lower Hunter total
0-14 years 12,258 12,791 12,585 0.3% 97,114 98,137 97,028 0.0%
15-24 years 6,220 6,501 7,101 1.3% 64,318 63,236 66,321 0.3%
25-39 years 11,157 11,026 10,056 -1.0% 98,300 95,279 92,367 -0.6%
40-54 years 9,679 11,654 12,577 2.7% 88,646 99,213 103,250 1.5%
55-64 years 4,868 6,361 7,933 5.0% 39,381 46,921 57,595 3.9%
65+ years 6,964 8,438 10,232 3.9% 64,760 70,688 76,901 1.7%
Total 51,146 56,771 60,484 1.7% 452,519 473,474 493,462 0.9%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
The age distribution shown in the table above illustrates the ageing of the
Lower Hunter population. Between 1996 and 2006:
• In the sub-Region overall, the population aged 40 and over increased (at
an average rate of 2.1 per cent per annum), while the population aged
below 40 declined (by 0.2 per cent per annum on average).
• Maitland was the only LGA in which the population aged below 40
increased (at an average annual rate of 1.2 per cent). Despite this
growth, the increase in the older population (3.4 per cent per annum on
average) substantially out-stripped that of the younger cohort.
• The size of the younger population (below 40) remained relatively stable
in Port Stephens and Newcastle, while it declined in both Cessnock and
Lake Macquarie at an average rate of 0.7 per cent per annum.
2 Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 23
24. • Among the under 40s, the age group with the greatest rate of decline (or
slowest rate of increase) was the 25 to 39 year olds, the age range in
which most women have children.
The chart below compares rates of growth of the under 40 and 40 and over
age cohorts in each of the Lower Hunter LGAs.
Average annual rate of change of the 'younger' and 'older' population cohorts, Lower Hunter, 1996 - 2006
4.0% 3.6%
3.4% Under 40 40+
3.5%
3.0%
2.5%
2.0% 2.1%
2.0% 1.7%
1.5% 1.2% 1.3%
1.0%
0.5%
0.04% 0.01%
0.0%
-0.5% -0.2%
-1.0% -0.7% -0.7%
Maitland Port Stephens Newcastle Lake Macquarie Cessnock Lower Hunter
total
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
Upper Hunter The population of the Upper Hunter totalled 50,152 persons in 2006, with
Singleton the most populous of the three LGA (21,940). Over the 10 years
between 1996 and 2006:
• The population of the sub-Region grew at an average annual rate of 0.2
per cent, substantially lower than the rate for the whole of the Hunter
Region (0.8 per cent) and the State (0.9 per cent).
• The fastest growing LGA was Singleton, the population of which
increased at an average annual rate of 1.1 per cent.
• The population declined in both Muswellbrook and the Upper Hunter
Shire, at an average annual rate of 0.1 per cent and 0.8 per cent
respectively.
The chart over compares growth rates in each of the Upper Hunter LGAs,
the sub-Region in total, the Hunter and State. Details of the age
distribution in the Upper Hunter are provided in the table following.
Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009 3
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 24
25. Average annual rate of population change, Upper Hunter, 1996 - 2006
1.5%
1.1%
1.0% 0.8% 0.9%
0.5%
0.2%
0.0%
-0.1%
-0.5%
-0.8%
-1.0%
Singleton Muswellbrook Upper Hunter Upper Hunter Hunter NSW
Shire total
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
Age distribution and change, Upper Hunter, 1996 - 2006
Average Average
annual annual
change change
1996 2001 2006 '96–'06 1996 2001 2006 '96–'06
Muswellbrook Singleton
0-14 years 4,038 3,664 3,695 -0.9% 5,311 5,119 5,366 0.1%
15-24 years 2,208 1,926 2,059 -0.7% 2,690 2,788 2,911 0.8%
25-39 years 3,716 3,339 3,171 -1.6% 4,793 4,504 4,575 -0.5%
40-54 years 3,030 3,105 3,209 0.6% 4,027 4,598 4,826 1.8%
55-64 years 1,108 1,273 1,560 3.5% 1,327 1,625 2,187 5.1%
65+ years 1,264 1,396 1,542 2.0% 1,609 1,875 2,075 2.6%
Total 15,364 14,703 15,236 -0.1% 19,757 20,509 21,940 1.1%
Upper Hunter Shire Upper Hunter total
0-14 years 3,339 2,625 2,635 -2.3% 12,688 11,408 11,696 -0.8%
15-24 years 1,658 1,468 1,639 -0.1% 6,556 6,182 6,609 0.1%
25-39 years 3,005 2,266 2,279 -2.7% 11,514 10,109 10,025 -1.4%
40-54 years 2,940 2,635 2,815 -0.4% 9,997 10,338 10,850 0.8%
55-64 years 1,312 1,261 1,598 2.0% 3,747 4,159 5,345 3.6%
65+ years 1,817 1,589 2,010 1.0% 4,690 4,860 5,627 1.8%
Total 14,071 11,844 12,976 -0.8% 49,192 47,056 50,152 0.2%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
4 Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 25
26. The age distribution shown in the table above illustrates the ageing of the
Upper Hunter population. Between 1996 and 2006:
• In the sub-Region overall, the population aged 40 and over increased (at
an average rate of 1.7 per cent per annum), while the population aged
below 40 declined (by 0.8 per cent per annum on average).
• The size of the younger population (below 40) remained relatively stable
in Singleton, while it declined in both Muswellbrook and the Upper
Hunter Shire at an average annual rate of 1.1 per cent and 2.0 per cent
respectively.
• Among the under 40s, the age group with the greatest rate of decline
was the 25 to 39 year olds, the age range in which most women have
children.
The chart below compares rates of growth of the under 40 and 40 and over
age cohorts in each of the Upper Hunter LGAs.
Average annual rate of change of the 'younger' and 'older' population cohorts, Upper Hunter, 1996 - 2006
3.0% 2.7%
Under 40 40+
2.0% 1.7%
1.6%
1.0%
0.6%
0.05%
0.0%
-1.0% -0.8%
-1.1%
-2.0%
-2.0%
-3.0%
Singleton Muswellbrook Upper Hunter Shire Upper Hunter total
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
Other Hunter The population of the Other Hunter area totalled 45,626 persons in 2006,
with Great Lakes the most populous LGA (32,764). Over the 10 years
between 1996 and 2006:
• The population of the sub-Region area grew at an average annual rate of
1.2 per cent, higher than the rate for the whole of the Hunter Region
(0.8 per cent) and the State (0.9 per cent).
• Great Lakes was the fastest growing LGA, increasing at an average
annual rate of 1.6 per cent. The population in Dungog rose at a
substantially lower rate of 0.4 per cent per annum on average.
Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009 5
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 26
27. • In Gloucester the population declined at an average annual rate of 0.2
per cent.
The chart below compares growth rates in each of the Other Hunter LGAs,
the sub-Region in total, the Hunter and State. Details of the age
distribution in the Other Hunter follow in the table.
Average annual rate of population change, Other Hunter, 1996 - 2006
2.0%
1.6%
1.5%
1.2%
1.0% 0.8% 0.9%
0.4%
0.5%
0.0%
-0.2%
-0.5%
Great Lakes Dungog Gloucester Other Hunter Hunter NSW
total
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
Age distribution and change, Other Hunter, 1996 - 2006
Average Average
annual annual
change change
1996 2001 2006 '96–'06 1996 2001 2006 '96–'06
Dungog Gloucester
0-14 years 1,834 1,813 1,701 -0.8% 1,113 987 874 -2.4%
15-24 years 854 864 873 0.2% 508 438 422 -1.8%
25-39 years 1,643 1,455 1,266 -2.6% 901 753 625 -3.6%
40-54 years 1,554 1,843 1,884 1.9% 958 1,016 1,029 0.7%
55-64 years 803 952 1,081 3.0% 577 621 786 3.1%
65+ years 1,032 1,110 1,257 2.0% 829 936 1,064 2.5%
Total 7,720 8,037 8,062 0.4% 4,886 4,751 4,800 -0.2%
Great Lakes Other Hunter total
0-14 years 5,518 5,513 5,263 -0.5% 8,465 8,313 7,838 -0.8%
15-24 years 2,381 2,653 2,869 1.9% 3,743 3,955 4,164 1.1%
25-39 years 4,652 4,372 4,004 -1.5% 7,196 6,580 5,895 -2.0%
40-54 years 5,091 6,115 6,393 2.3% 7,603 8,974 9,306 2.0%
55-64 years 3,673 4,726 5,139 3.4% 5,053 6,299 7,006 3.3%
65+ years 6,771 7,822 9,096 3.0% 8,632 9,868 11,417 2.8%
Total 28,086 31,201 32,764 1.6% 40,692 43,989 45,626 1.2%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
6 Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 27
28. The age distribution shown in the table above illustrates the ageing of the
Other Hunter population. Between 1996 and 2006:
• In the sub-Region overall, the population aged 40 and over increased (at
an average rate of 2.7 per cent per annum), while the population aged
below 40 declined (by 0.8 per cent per annum on average).
• The size of the younger population (below 40) declined in all LGAs, with
the rate of decline lowest in Great Lakes (0.3 per cent per annum on
average) and highest in Gloucester (2.7 per cent).
• Among the under 40s, the age group with the greatest rate of decline
was the 25 to 39 year olds, the age range in which most women have
children.
The chart below compares the rates of growth of the under 40 and 40 and
over age cohorts in each of the Other Hunter LGAs.
Average annual rate of change of the 'younger' and 'older' population cohorts, Other Hunter, 1996 - 2006
2.9%
3.0% Under 40 40+ 2.7%
2.2%
2.0%
2.0%
1.0%
0.0%
-0.3%
-1.0%
-0.8%
-1.2%
-2.0%
-3.0% -2.7%
Great Lakes Dungog Gloucester Other Hunter total
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
The Hunter In 2006 the population of the Hunter Region was 589,240 persons,
approximately 9 per cent of the State total of 6.5 million. The charts over
Region present population growth rates for all Hunter Region LGAs over the decade
from 1996 to 2006:
• The fastest growing, at rates above the regional and State averages,
were: Maitland (at an average annual rate of 2.1 per cent), Port
Stephens (1.7 per cent), Great Lakes (1.6 per cent) and Singleton (1.1
per cent). In all other LGAs the population increased at a relatively slow
rate, or it declined. There were declines in Muswellbrook (at an average
annual rate of 0.1 per cent), Gloucester (0.2 per cent) and the Upper
Hunter Shire (0.8 per cent).
Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009 7
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 28
29. • Maitland is the only LGA in the Hunter in which the population aged
under 40 increased, though the rate of increase of this group was
substantially lower than for the over 40s (1.2 per cent per annum on
average compared with 3.4 per cent respectively).
• The younger population was relatively stable in Singleton, Port Stephens
and Newcastle, and it declined in all other Hunter LGAs. Rates of
decline in the under 40 age cohort were greatest in Muswellbrook (1.1
per cent per annum on average), Dungog (1.2 per cent), Upper Hunter
Shire (2.0 per cent) and Gloucester (2.7 per cent).
Average annual rate of population change, Hunter Region, 1996 - 2006
2.5%
2.1%
2.0% 1.7%
1.6%
1.5%
1.1% 1.2%
1.0% 0.9% 0.8% 0.9%
0.6% 0.6%
0.4% 0.3%
0.5% 0.2%
0.0%
-0.1% -0.2%
-0.5%
-1.0% -0.8%
SW
al
r
nd
ns
ie
g
le
ok
re
n
al
al
s
r
k
te
te
ke
go
to
oc
ot
ar
st
ot
ot
hi
he
t la
un
ro
es
le
N
rt
La
ca
qu
rt
rt
un
sn
rS
llb
ai
ep
H
ng
uc
te
te
te
ew
D
ac
es
M
at
te
we
un
St
Si
lo
un
un
C
re
un
M
N
G
us
H
rt
H
H
G
H
ke
Po
er
M
er
er
er
La
th
w
pp
pp
Lo
O
U
U
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
Average annual rate of change of the 'younger' and 'older' population cohorts, Hunter Region, 1996 - 2006
4.0% 3.4% 3.6%
Under 40 40+
2.7% 2.9%
3.0%
2.0% 2.2%
2.0%
2.0% 1.7% 1.6%
1.2% 1.3%
1.0% 0.6%
0.0%
0.05% 0.04% 0.01%
-1.0% -0.3%
-0.7% -0.7%
-1.1% -1.2%
-2.0%
-2.0%
-3.0% -2.7%
nd
s
ie
og
tle
k
re
on
r
es
ck
te
en
o
ar
i
ak
s
t la
g
ro
o
et
Sh
es
h
ca
qu
un
sn
l
lb
ai
ep
tL
ng
uc
r
ew
D
es
ac
l
M
te
we
a
St
Si
lo
C
re
un
M
N
G
us
rt
G
rH
ke
Po
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La
e
pp
U
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing , 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
8 Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 29
30. The following table presents population totals and annual average rates of
growth for specified age groups in the Region and the State between 1996
and 2006:
• Rates of growth were similar in the Region and State although, on
balance, there was a small decline in the regional population aged under
40 (by an average of 0.3 per cent per annum), while there was a very
slight increase in this cohort in the State (by an average of 0.01 per cent
per annum).
• In the both the Region and the State there was a decline in the
population of 25 to 39 year olds, the age range in which most women
have children. The decline in the Hunter was greater than in the State.
• The rate of increase in the older population (aged 40 and above) was
slightly higher in the Hunter (2.1 per cent per annum on average) than in
the State (2.0 per cent).
The old-age dependency ratio is the ratio of the number of people aged 65
and over to the number of working age people between 15 and 64. This
ratio has been increasing over the past decade in both the Region and the
State, meaning that there are proportionally fewer working age people to
support the older, generally retired population. Moreover, the ratio is higher
in the Hunter than in the State: 25 per cent compared with 21 per cent
respectively in 2006. Major challenges for the future, now well recognised,
are the need to provide the infrastructure and services required for the
ageing population, and incentives to keep young people in regional areas.
See also the population projections at the end of this chapter.
Population age distribution and change, Hunter and NSW, 1996 - 2006
Hunter NSW
Average Average
annual annual
change change
1996 2001 2006 '96–'06 1996 2001 2006 '96–'06
0-14 years 118,267 117,858 116,560 -0.1% 1,286,689 1,314,456 1,298,916 0.1%
15-24 years 74,617 73,373 77,103 0.3% 849,575 845,964 871,716 0.3%
25-39 years 117,010 111,968 108,281 -0.8% 1,397,074 1,400,152 1,365,729 -0.2%
40-54 years 106,246 118,525 123,402 1.5% 1,193,472 1,336,523 1,387,494 1.5%
55-64 years 48,181 57,379 69,948 3.8% 515,152 597,588 719,547 3.4%
65+ years 78,082 85,416 93,946 1.9% 764,244 831,896 905,777 1.7%
Total 542,403 564,519 589,240 0.8% 6,006,206 6,326,579 6,549,179 0.9%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Census of Population and Housing, 1996 and 2006, Cat. No. 2068.0
Newcastle and the Hunter Region 2008 – 2009 9
10 March 2010 CHAMBER DEVELOPMENTS 30