The Business Centre’s Mid Coast regional office has moved into its new CBD premises on the first floor of the Forster Arcade - 41 Wharf St, Forster.

To meet the growing needs of local businesses, this office is added to a list of associate offices of the Business Centre in Gloucester, Tea Gardens, Bulahdelah, Wingham and Taree for those businesses who need local business support.

Michael Hilsden FAIM, FACS, Senior Business Advisor and Mentor at the Business Centre heads this area and has been working across the region for almost 10 years, advising businesses and their teams.

With a portfolio of more than 250 businesses across a wide range of sectors, the Business Centre has a firm understanding of the trends and development in the area, and it is clear the Mid Coast’s economy is going through an exciting transition.

Traditionally, the North Coast of New South Wales has experienced seasonal trade and influences from the tourism sector with a historically strong agricultural base. With the adoption of new technologies and faster internet access we are seeing young families move into or return to the area for a better work-life balance, said Mr Hilsden.

“The time has never been more perfect to start a business on the Mid Coast and we are delighted to be the provider of the Business Connect program for the region’s economic prosperity”, said Mr Hilsden.

“We can attribute the rise of web-based businesses, easy access to e-commerce sites and video tele-conferencing for the increase in business owners who can now, more than ever, choose the sea change lifestyle,” said Mr Hilsden.

“This is also evident by the number of young entrepreneurs moving back to the Mid Coast after studying in cities like Brisbane, Newcastle and Sydney and enjoying the significantly more affordable lifestyle to start a business.  

“The time has never been more perfect to start a business on the Mid Coast and we are delighted to be the provider of the Business Connect program for the region’s economic prosperity”, said Mr Hilsden.

Thanks to the NSW Department of Industry’s Business Connect program, anyone in business or intending to start can get free and highly subsidised advisory support and mentoring through the Business Centre.