Stops
Stops are located in and around the Parramatta CBD on Church Street and Parramatta Square.
More than 16,000 people will connect to the Church Street light rail stop each day once operations commence. This will provide support to more than 60 local businesses.
View maps of Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the project, as well as the Active Transport Link.
Understanding businesses
Transport for NSW recognises the importance of supporting and managing impacts on business during light rail construction.
The Parramatta Light Rail team is working with businesses to ensure they have the information and support they need.
Parramatta Light Rail place managers work with business owners to:
- provide information and updates on the project
- answer any questions
- ensure issues are identified early and solutions developed.
In 2018, Transport for NSW surveyed more than 330 businesses along the light rail route to gain a better understanding of how they operate, including:
- information on deliveries
- hours of operation
- where their customers come from
- and how they currently promote their businesses.
Business Reference Group
The Parramatta Light Rail Business Reference Group was established in 2018 (prior to light rail construction) for:
- local businesses
- community members
- stakeholders.
The group gives the opportunity to share advice and collaborate on business support initiatives during construction and through to light rail operations.
For more information, refer to the list of Business Reference Group members.
Business Activation Plan
Building in the heart of existing communities involves significant challenges.
The Parramatta Light Rail Business Activation Plan was developed to bring life and vitality into the Parramatta CBD and across the wider area by promoting local:
- businesses
- events
- activities.
The plan was developed in consultation with key stakeholders including:
- Transport for NSW’s Sydney Coordination Office
- City of Parramatta Council
- Parramatta Chamber of Commerce
- and the Business Reference Group.
Business activations delivered to date have included:
- ‘Shop local’ campaigns
- social media promotions and giveaways
- restaurant guide supporting more than 60 local businesses in and around Church Street, Parramatta
- summer and Christmas-themed activations
- NSW Small Business Month promotions.
Business support services
1
NSW Small Business Commissioner
The NSW Small Business Commissioner speaks up for and supports small businesses, particularly during periods of disruption. The team can assist small businesses through:
- resolving disputes through mediation
- better understanding commercial agreements, leases and contracts
- advocating on behalf of small businesses, both within and outside government
- providing advice on how to address important issues facing your business, such as infrastructure disruption and impacts of natural disasters.
Get in touch with the Office of the NSW Small Business Commissioner by calling 1300 795 534 or emailing we.assist@smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au.
2
Parramatta Chamber of Commerce
Parramatta Chamber of Commerce is one of the longest serving chambers, representing the interests of businesses since 1912. It is:
- a well established and respected not-for-profit organisation
- dedicated to business growth and success by providing leadership, support and help to members of the business community.
Parramatta Chamber of Commerce provides members and their guests with the opportunity to network, communicate, support and educate each other.
Such networking and business growth opportunities are provided through:
- initiatives
- forums
- platforms
- events that facilitate and grow these connections by building networks through engagement.
Get in touch with the Parramatta Chamber of Commerce on 9635 0022 or info@parramattachamber.com.au.
3
Realise Business
Realise Business was appointed by Transport for NSW prior to and during major construction to deliver free business support services to businesses affected by Parramatta Light Rail construction.
More than 200 businesses were offered support to:
- maximise their potential
- navigate the challenges of a changing environment
- make the most out of opportunities ahead.
Here is some feedback we have received.
'When we received news about the Realise Business Support we jumped on the opportunity and it’s the best business decision I have made all year.
'Sara, our Business Advisor, has opened my eyes to the opportunities and how to grow my business sustainably and systematically – it’s been a real mindset shift for me'. Ian from Carlingford Automotive Mechanical Repairs
'My business has been greatly impacted by COVID-19 and Realise Business has been going above and beyond working with me to develop and implement communication strategies to build awareness, customer retention and loyalty.
'I have been overwhelmed by the support of the Realise Business Advisor Sue Walsh in assisting me to develop and implement a communications plan and I’m really happy with the results. This included an email campaign sent to all our clients generating 6 new bookings and an open rate of just under 50%. A terrific result from just one campaign.' Amelia from Westmead Foot Clinic
How Jackson's Cafe navigated the changing environment
Jackson's Cafe on Church Street, North Parramatta, is one of more than 200 small businesses that has worked with Realise Business to adapt its business model to reach new customers.
