$60 Million Boost for New England REZ Communities

Walcha mayor Eric Noakes, ARC mayor Sam Coupland and Uralla mayor Robert Bell

19th May 2026

Communities across the New England and Upper Hunter regions are set to benefit from an initial $60 million investment tied to the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), with funding aimed at delivering local infrastructure, services and employment opportunities ahead of major renewable energy construction.
The NSW Government announced the funding through the Community and Employment Benefit Program, saying the money would support projects identified by local communities and councils as priorities for long-term regional prosperity.
The funding is being brought forward so benefits can begin flowing before renewable energy projects are fully underway, with EnergyCo to consult with councils, stakeholders and community groups on how the program will operate.
The announcement builds on similar community benefit programs delivered through the Central-West Orana REZ, where funding has supported projects including key worker accommodation in Mudgee, water security initiatives in Warrumbungle Shire and early childhood services in Dunedoo. Employment programs for young people and workers transitioning into renewable energy industries have also been funded.
Centred around Armidale, the New England REZ is expected to provide 8 gigawatts of network capacity and support the state’s transition away from coal-fired power generation. The project is forecast to create more than 6,000 construction jobs and 2,000 ongoing operational positions, along with additional demand across manufacturing, retail, transport and local service industries.
While no breakdown of funding between councils was announced, EnergyCo confirmed the money would be targeted at communities most affected by REZ development, with detailed guidelines to be shaped through consultation.
Walcha mayor Eric Noakes, Uralla mayor Robert Bell and Armidale mayor Sam Coupland agreed it was good to have certainty around the project.
Cr Sam Coupland said the funding alone would not “scratch the surface” when it came to major regional challenges such as housing and water infrastructure, but said he hoped the investment would help improve liveability across the community.

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$60 Million Boost for New England REZ Communities

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