“So much more than roads, rates and rubbish!” Why Mac Park will need champions in the new Ryde Council…

Council elections are approaching fast, when the Ryde community will choose who will represent them at Local Government for the next 4 years.

These candidates will have the privilege of serving both our residential community, and helping to plan and manage one of the most economically powerful areas in Sydney: Macquarie Park.

Connect Macquarie Park Innovation District, together with Macquarie Park Ryde Business Chamber, recently brought local business representatives together to meet the candidates who are vying to look after Macquarie Park.

Highlighting more than $13billion in public and private investment in Macquarie Park, Chamber President Tony Abboud addressed both current and prospective candidates, saying:

“Macquarie Park is a massive engine right here under our nose and we need to fire it up! The only way we can do that is under your leadership.”

Macquarie Park in numbers:

• 72,000 workers, of which approx. 20,000 are City of Ryde residents

• 40,000 students, of which approx. 10,000 are City of Ryde residents

• 10,000 people already living in the area today

• (That’s 40,000 City of Ryde constituents who either live, work or study in the area and who are deeply engaged in the success of Macquarie Park!)

Macquarie Park will face significant change during the tenure of the next Council:

• Sydney Metro Northwest extension will open, connecting Macquarie Park to Barangaroo in just 18 minutes

• Fall out from COVID-19 will change how employees use the Park, with support needed for cafes, collaboration hubs and “third spaces”

• Macquarie Park’s new 20-year masterplan will begin to have an impact, with an additional 20,000 jobs and 10,000 extra residents planned for the area

Based on these numbers, Connect MPID’s General Manager Mark Ames told the prospective Councillors they have a significant task ahead:

“It’s not an understatement to say Macquarie Park is facing a pivotal moment in its history. And there’s no doubt that being a local leader is a demanding role.”

“Macquarie Park may not fill your mail bag in the same way that local residential issues do, but you’ll still need to demonstrate passion and commitment for Ryde’s economic powerhouse. This landscape is going to be about so much more than just ‘roads, rates and rubbish’!”

“Macquarie Park is looking for leadership that supports the growth of our innovation district.”

“Whether it’s more space for innovation, attracting new employers to our area, or more investment in new open space and a quality public realm - our community will rely on your advocacy and support to build a flourishing innovation district.”

Local Government elections are on Saturday 4 December, and voting is compulsory for those on the electoral register. Pre-polling is available from 22 November.

Live in the City of Ryde, and not sure which ward you’re voting in, or where you can cast your ballot?

Head to the City of Ryde website, and don’t forget to use your voice!