The Minns Labor Government’s inaugural budget unveils a substantial commitment to forge a secure, dependable, resilient, and sustainable transportation network binding burgeoning communities throughout New South Wales. In the 2023-24 State Budget, a staggering $72.3 billion will be allocated over the next four years to undertake comprehensive improvements across various modes of transport, encompassing roads, trains, metros, buses, ferries, light rail, and active mobility solutions. This monumental investment will not only enhance local and visitor transit but also serve as a pivotal catalyst in unlocking additional housing opportunities for the state.
This monumental investment is poised to usher in new and enhanced transportation infrastructure, including:
- An additional $1 billion infusion into the Sydney Metro City and Southwest project to rectify delays and cost overruns, ensuring its successful completion.
- A $7.9 billion allocation over four years to extend the Sydney Metro to Western Sydney Airport, with six new stations dedicated to servicing the future Western Sydney International Airport.
- A reserved fund of $302.7 million for the establishment of a Western Sydney rapid bus network, connecting the communities of Penrith, Liverpool, and Campbelltown to the future Western Sydney International Airport.
- A $300 million allocation to upgrade train station car parks and enhance accessibility through the installation of new lifts, ramps, and footbridges.
- A reserved $200 million fund to expedite the planning, procurement, construction, and delivery of Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 in Western Sydney.
- A $71.1 million commitment to reinstate Freshwater Class ferries on the Circular Quay-Manly route.
- $43 million is earmarked for the acquisition of seven new Australian-made Parramatta River Class ferries.
- A $15.8 million investment in the Public Transport Information and Priority System by Transport for NSW to enhance real-time bus tracking for passengers, addressing “ghost buses” and bolstering reliability.
- An additional $60 million was allocated for active transport infrastructure, empowering local councils to expand cycleway networks and promote walking, particularly in Western Sydney’s greenfield developments.
A safe, dependable, and sustainable transport system is foundational to fostering prosperity in NSW, delivering substantial economic, social, and environmental advantages. These transformative transport initiatives not only create tens of thousands of jobs during construction but, upon completion, forge critical connections for communities while alleviating traffic congestion.
Furthermore, this multi-billion-dollar funding commitment will ensure that the roads used by regional communities are reliable, safe, and accessible, including:
- $1.4 billion is earmarked for the introduction of a new regional rail fleet to replace aging equipment.
- A $390 million provision to establish the Regional Emergency Road Repair Fund, supporting regional councils in maintaining existing roads and prioritizing critical projects.
- A $334 million allocation to the Regional Roads Fund aimed at constructing new roads in rural and regional areas.
- $333.9 million for the replacement of aging timber bridges via the Fixing Country Bridges program, enhancing regional bus services and assisting councils through the Fixing Local Roads Program.
- $95.9 million is dedicated to the Fixing Country Rail program, enhancing capacity and reliability in the regional rail network for freight transport.
- $29.4 million for the planned transition to Zero Emission buses, involving trials, analysis, and development.
- $20.2 million to sustain the Transport Connected Bus Program.
- $10 million to enhance the network of heavy vehicle rest stops across regional NSW.
This comprehensive investment underscores the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to fostering growth, connectivity, and resilience throughout New South Wales.
