The Hon. AILEEN MacDONALD (10:13): I move:

(1)That this House notes that:

(a)The Maitland Mercury reported on 17 October 2025 that Maitland has been named among the top 25 places in Australia, and fourth in New South Wales, to start a business, according to a study by financial software company Reckon;

(b)the study analysed 17 indicators across four key categories: talent pool, business landscape, internet speed and cost of living, with the Maitland-Newcastle region ranking fourth in New South Wales behind Sydney, Wollongong and Albury-Wodonga;

(c)the region performed particularly well in internet connectivity and workforce capability, recording a 65.5/100 internet speed score and 52.2/100 talent pool score, demonstrating its strong foundations for business innovation and digital capacity;

(d)Maitland's growing population, projected to reach 144,000 people by 2041, together with its proximity to major markets and training opportunities, is positioning the city as a key growth hub for small and medium enterprises across the Hunter; and

(e)the continued expansion of local entrepreneurship and employment opportunities in Maitland contributes significantly to the economic vitality of the broader Hunter and country north regions.

(2)That this House:

(a)congratulates the Maitland-Newcastle region on being recognised among the top business growth areas in New South Wales and Australia;

(b)commends local business owners and chambers of commerce for their contribution to innovation, employment and regional prosperity;

(c)recognises the vital role that small businesses play in sustaining vibrant communities; and

(d)encourages continued investment, infrastructure and policy support to maintain Maitland's momentum as one of the State's most promising business destinations.

Motion agreed to.