Illawarra-Shoalhaven Regional Director Matthew Wales said the Property Council had long argued for dedicated funding to accelerate enabling infrastructure at the Nowra Riverfront Precinct.
"The ambition for a vibrant riverfront precinct is the right one, but planning alone won't deliver it," Mr Wales said.
"With the right foundations in place, the Riverfront Precinct can stimulate new jobs, boost tourism, and drive long-term economic activity across the Shoalhaven. We now need investment in the infrastructure that allows private capital to get moving.
"Roads, public domain upgrades, water and sewer capacity and active transport links are critical. Without them, this precinct will stall before it starts.
"The Riverfront Precinct has the potential to be a genuine economic catalyst, but only if the Government works closely with industry and Shoalhaven City Council to fund and deliver the enabling works," he said.
Mr Wales said the announcement was a positive signal that the Government is paying attention to the South Coast's growth pressures.
"This can become a signature gateway for the region, a place where public space, culture, recreation, and high-quality development come together. What we need now is a clear pathway from planning to delivery, with timelines, funding clarity, and coordinated action across agencies.
"Better links between Nowra, the Shoalhaven, the Illawarra, and Greater Sydney are also essential. The Government has acknowledged the region's growth. It now needs to prioritise the transport upgrades that make this precinct accessible and attractive to investors."
"Industry is ready to partner with Government to get this precinct moving. There's strong interest in mixed-use development, riverfront activation, and new tourism offerings.
"Continued collaboration will also be vital as the precinct moves from concept to implementation. Getting the staging right, sequencing infrastructure, and unlocking early wins will be key to demonstrating its potential," Mr Wales said.
