The North Coast region provides a diversity of lifestyles – some seek the coastal townships and cities, while others enjoy the hinterlands.
The regional plan is all about making the region a better places for its people, by improving or protecting its environment, economy and places.
Download the North Coast Regional Plan 2041 (PDF, 15.4 MB).
Aboriginal connections to Country
The North Coast is on the lands of the Bundjalung, Githabul, Gumbaynggirr, Yaegl, Dunghutti, Thunggutti and Birpai nations.
The region is rich in Aboriginal cultural heritage and includes places and objects that are of significance to Aboriginal people because of their traditions, observances, lore, customs, beliefs and history.
Opportunities to live on Country is important for many Aboriginal communities. The regional plan looks to enrich connections to Country through:
- Supporting and partnering with the 22 Local Aboriginal Land Councils and Native Title holders in the North Coast Region.
- Helping to build capacity for economic self-determination.
- Encouraging housing solutions to consider the need for culturally responsive housing, so that people can live intergenerationally and meet their caring obligations within family units.
- Working with knowledge holders to undertake cultural mapping that can protect important sites.
- Considering dual naming policies in collaboration with Aboriginal people.
Objective 4 (PDF, 15.4 MB) and objective 13& (PDF, 15.4 MB) of the regional plan focus on Aboriginal culture and economic self-determination.
Places for people
The North Coast region is one of the most highly desired places to live and visit in NSW. People love the beautiful natural landscape, easy access to nature and vibrant public spaces.
By focusing on public places and spaces, the regional plan ensures that people’s health and wellbeing are a key contributor to different land use decisions.
People also shape the character of a place, this includes how locals, workers or visitors interact with streets, villages and towns, and what makes these places unique. The regional plan recognises that the region’s diverse local character makes it a desirable place to live and visit.
Read about public spaces and local character in objective 19 (PDF, 15.4 MB) and objective 20 (PDF, 15.4 MB) of the regional plan.