Cardiff: A Growing Economic Hub

Positioned within the North-West Lake Macquarie catalyst area, Cardiff contributes approximately 12% of Lake Macquarie’s total output with an impressive $3.9 billion, cementing its place as a key economic driver. Cardiff provides seamless access to local, national, and international markets through major transport links including the Pacific Highway, Newcastle Port, and the expanding Newcastle Airport, benefitting businesses.

Key Facts

• • Cardiff is part of the Northwest Lake Macquarie Catalyst Area, aimed at driving economic development through strategic land use and infrastructure improvements.
  • 20-minute drive to Newcastle Port, offering direct access to national and international trade routes.
  • Freight infrastructure supports manufacturing, retail, and construction, including connections to the national rail freight network.
  • Cardiff is situated approximately 13 km west of Newcastle’s CBD, offering a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial zones.

Cardiff had 2,983 jobs in 2021, with projections indicating this number will double to 6,000 by 2041. Cardiff’s employment rate of 94% in 2021 reflects a strong, growing job market, with steady improvement from 92.3% in 2016. With a strong employment rate its evident this is a key driver for the areas economic success. Cardiff has an advanced manufacturing sector, contributing $1.19 billion to the region’s output. The suburb also makes a strong contribution to healthcare and social assistance, employing 1,579 people and generating $304 million in output. Emerging industries like financial technology, cybersecurity, and renewable energy offer new opportunities for innovation and expansion. 

Key Facts

• Cardiff had 2,983 jobs in 2021 with projections of 6,000 jobs by 2041, highlighting a 101% increase. 
• Manufacturing sector employs 1,012 people, generating approx. $1.09 million per job.
• Healthcare and social assistance is the largest employer with 1,579 jobs, contributing $304 million to local output.
• Output per healthcare job is approx. $192,555.
• Construction is also a key sector with 1,368 jobs, supporting infrastructure growth and housing.

Cardiff offers diverse commercial and industrial real estate options for various business needs, with from mixed-use zoning properties, ideal for office, retail, and industrial use. Additionally, leasing options remain strong, including warehouses with office spaces, industrial units, and commercial properties suitable for medical use. As a result of a competitive market businesses have access to a wider range of competitive options.

Key Facts

• Median rental cost in Cardiff is $595/week, more affordable than Newcastle ($700) and Sydney ($800).
• Wide variety of real estate offerings makes Cardiff attractive for start-ups, SMEs, and expanding enterprises.
• Cardiff’s designation within Lake Macquarie’s North-West catalyst area enhances its appeal for commercial and industrial growth.

Cardiff benefits from a wide range of higher education institutions such as University of Newcastle (UON), Avondale University, and TAFE NSW. With 15.2% of UON students, 241 from Avondale University, and 9790 enrolled at TAFE all residing in Lake Macquarie, this highlights how Cardiff benefits from a highly skilled talent pool of graduates in fields such as engineering, health, business, nursing, and certificates 1-4, offered by these institutions. This access to educated professionals fosters research and innovation, making Cardiff an attractive destination for businesses requiring specialised expertise. With a strong employment rate and ongoing workforce expansion, companies can rely on a steady talent pipeline to support their growth.

Key Facts

• Median Cardiff Age 38
• UON contributes 8,000 new graduates annually, ensuring a steady supply of educated professionals.
• 4559 students or 15.2% of University of Newcastle reside in Lake Macquarie
• 24.4% of Cardiff’s population holds tertiary qualifications, reinforcing a skilled workforce base.

Cardiff has a strong track record of manufacturing and ideally placed for future growth in manufacturing and advanced manufacturing, creating jobs and economic opportunities for Lake Macquarie. With a combination of strategic location, economic strength, diverse real estate options, skilled workforce, and significant future investment potential, Cardiff offers an ideal environment for businesses to thrive within Lake Macquarie now and into the future.

Key Facts

• Cardiff hosts 11 logistics and warehousing companies, reinforcing its role in supply chain networks.
• Cardiff is identified for transport-oriented development (TOD), aiming to increase housing density near existing public transport to support sustainable growth.
• Newcastle airport upgrades introduce new opportunity for global tourism and air freight.