To promote greater competition and choice for Central Coast residents, Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP, has launched a community survey gauging the level of support for a Costco warehouse in the region.

The Central Coast is one of the fastest growing regions in Australia with a population of more than 350,000 people. According to the latest population statistics, the Central Coast region will be home to roughly 400,000 to 415,000 people by the years 2035-2036.

The Australian grocery sector is one of the most highly concentrated, dominated by an oligopoly that control around 67% of the market. This means prices for everyday grocery items may remain stable or artificially inflated as there are limited firms competing for market share.

New additions into the grocery sector like Costco are challenging existing players and helping promote competition.

Costco Australia is currently looking for new sites around the country.

Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid MP:

“The Central Coast is a growing region with a strong economy and population.

“I want to see our community get value for money when it comes to their everyday grocery needs.

“Other regions in Australia with similarly sized populations have or are in the process of getting a Costco including in Canberra, Lake Macqurie, and Geelong.

“There are also large parcels of land in Somersby, close to transport, that would be ideal for a Costco warehouse.

“I am launching a community survey to gauge the level of support for a Costco on the Central Coast. I want to demonstrate to Costco that the Central Coast region should be next in line for one of its warehouses.

“If we can show raw data to Costco that there are many residents who want a Costco for our region, this might be enough for the company to investigate setting up shop on the Central Coast.

“Therefore, I am encouraging residents on the Central Coast to complete my survey online via my website to help strengthen my advocacy.

“I will continue to update our community on the progress of my campaign.”

Quotes attributable Mr Scott Goold, Regional Director, Business NSW Central Coast:

“Greater competition in the grocery sector is healthy for the Central Coast economy. When new players enter the market, it drives sharper pricing, better choice for consumers, and stronger outcomes for households and businesses already under cost‑of‑living pressure.

“A Costco on the Central Coast wouldn’t just create jobs within the warehouse itself — it would generate a much broader economic impact through construction, logistics, transport, and local supply chains, supporting hundreds of associated jobs across the region.

“With our population continuing to grow, the Central Coast has the scale, workforce and transport connections to support major retail investment. Attracting national operators like Costco sends a strong signal that our region is open for business and ready for the next phase of economic growth.”

To complete the online survey, visit: https://drgordonreidmp.com.au/our-coast-community/costco-on-the-coast/

ENDS