Lake Macquarie Unlocked: Growth, Grants & Game-Changers with Mayor Adam Shultz

Lake Macquarie is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Hunter, and the opportunities are only just beginning. In Episode 19 of Newcastle Unlocked, Brent Sinclair sits down with Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz to unpack what this growth actually means for developers, investors and the broader community. With forecasts of an additional 38,000 people by 2046, Council is actively shaping the future through its Local Strategic Planning Statement, housing incentives and targeted growth corridors. In this episode, we dive into where the real opportunities lie, how planning is evolving, and what investors should be paying attention to based from the Shape Lac Mac Local Strategic Planning Statement, which you can view yourself here https://shape.lakemac.com.au/local-st.... From key centres like Charlestown, Glendale and Morisset, through to emerging precincts like Cockle Creek and major infrastructure conversations around high-speed rail, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the next phase of growth in the region. In this episode, we cover: • Population growth and migration trends driving demand • Housing diversity, density and demographic shifts • Developer incentives and contribution reductions • Key growth areas and future development corridors • Repurposing mining land and major project opportunities • The role of infrastructure and regional collaboration Whether you're a developer, investor or simply interested in the future of the Hunter, this episode gives you a clear view of where Lake Macquarie is heading. Subscribe for more insights from industry leaders across Newcastle and the Hunter. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lake Macquarie Growth 00:37 Meet Mayor Adam Shultz 01:44 Challenges in the Role & Council Operations 03:49 Why Lake Macquarie is a Growth Hotspot 05:59 Population Growth & Housing Demand Shift 07:25 Developer Incentives & Housing Diversity 09:49 Affordability Measures & Policy Changes 12:08 Key Strategic Centres Explained 13:35 Growth Corridors & Transport-Oriented Development 15:33 Cockle Creek & Emerging Opportunities 17:39 Planning Framework & Developer Pathways 19:32 Morisset: A Future Growth Powerhouse 21:20 Regional Collaboration & Infrastructure Advocacy 23:46 Repurposing Mining Land & Major Projects 26:42 Why Investors Are Looking at Lake Macquarie 28:29 The Next 10 Years: Vision & Outlook 30:19 Final Thoughts