Posted on June 23, 2025
At least $21.5 million will be allocated from the 2025/26 NSW Budget to continue crucial renourishment works at Stockton Beach.
And, the move is set to protect the area’s natural beauty, Aboriginal heritage and its recreational and economic benefits well into the future.
The proposed Stockton Beach Repair Blueprint (SBRB) outlines the actions required to preserve the beach, according to Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe.
“The NSW Government has already worked with City of Newcastle (CN) to deliver 130,000 cubic metres of sand to nourish Stockton Beach,” she said.
“However, the new funding – from the 2025/26 NSW Budget – will ensure the NSW Government can fulfil the next phase of the SBRB, which involves a range of things including finalising environmental approvals, creating and implementing an environmental monitoring plan, securing licences, planning the approach to procurement, and delivering beach nourishment.
“While we’ve made significant progress on the restoration of Stockton Beach, there’s more to do.
“But, this investment delivers on our election commitment and funds the largest beach repair project ever undertaken in NSW.”
The announcement certainly pleased Stockton Special Advisory Panel Chairman chair Tim Crakanthorp.
Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp and Minister for the Environment Penny Sharpe at Stockton Beach.
“I have been fighting for Stockton Beach alongside the community since I was first elected as the Member for Newcastle,” the local MP said.
“I secured $21.5 million for mass sand nourishment, so I am so pleased to be delivering on that commitment.
“It’s one thing to have a blueprint.
“It is another to have the funding confirmed in this year’s Budget and to be moving onto the next steps of getting sand back on the beach.
“I look forward to continuing as chair of the Stockton Special Advisory Panel and working alongside the City of Newcastle in delivering for the community.”
The investment, over five years, is in addition to the $6.3 million stage one project administered by the NSW Government and jointly-funded by the Commonwealth and council.
As well, the NSW Government will continue to involve the community and seek its input on the restoration process.
“The panel is determined to provide important stakeholder perspectives to keep people up-to-date,” Mr Crakanthorp said.
