The Federal Government has announced that it is investing $1.9 billion in 14 new transport projects across Western Sydney.
In addition, the government will also be providing funding for two existing projects.
These projects are set to help underpin the fundamental shift of jobs and growth to Sydney’s west.
The new investments include construction projects, as well as planning projects, to ensure the groundwork is laid for a pipeline of future road investments, which are properly scoped, designed and costed.
The investment will help deliver 14 new projects, including:
- Mamre Road Stage 2 Upgrade
- Elizabeth Drive – Priority Sections Upgrade
- Garfield Road East Upgrade
- Memorial Avenue Upgrade
- Appin Road – St Johns Road Intersection Upgrade
The Federal Government will invest $147.5 million for planning for roads and rail across greater Western Sydney to ensure that road infrastructure can keep pace with a growing population.
It is also investing $20 million to partner with the New South Wales Government to expand the scope of the South West Sydney Rail Planning – Business Case to include consideration of extending the line to the Macarthur region.
Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, said that the government is proud to support the people of Western Sydney and deliver the roads and rail lines they need and deserve.
“This is in addition to the new Western Sydney airport and the recently opened Moorebank Intermodal Precinct which will drive jobs and economic activity for Western Sydney,” Mr Albanese said.
“We are getting on with delivering a better future for all Australians, one made in Australia that builds economic opportunity and thriving communities.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said that the government is delivering significant infrastructure that increases opportunities and connections, builds communities and improves safety.
“The hard work we undertook to clean up the mess in the infrastructure pipeline means there is room to ensure current projects can be delivered and plan for future projects,” Ms King said.
“I thank the New South Wales Government for working closely with us to ensure the delivery of these projects.”
New South Wales Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney, Prue Car, said that this announcement is a game changer for Western Sydney.
“It builds on hundreds of millions of dollars invested by New South Wales to deliver overdue precinct roads that will meet the existing needs of local residents, while unlocking development and new places for people to work and live,” Ms Car said.
“We have developers ready to transform the region into modern employment, education and housing zones which are planned to attract 250,000 people.
“Today’s announcement will give investors the confidence they are looking for from government to begin making those plans a reality.”
New South Wales Minister for Roads, John Graham, said that the State Government has been working closely with the Federal Government since the mid-year review to ensure New South Wales roads and public transport are in place to support Australia’s fastest growing region in its most populous state.
“The Western Sydney Airport Precinct is a once in a generation, city shaping program,” Mr Graham said.
“Cities aren’t built overnight – they take time and investment. This federal funding ensures we can stage delivery to keep unlocking opportunities for community and industry in the Western Sydney Airport Precinct.
“This announcement means that what are essentially one lane each-way country roads like Elizabeth Drive and Mamre Road will be upgraded.”
New South Wales Treasurer, Daniel Mookhey, said he is glad that the Federal Government has listened to the people of Western Sydney and its surrounds and has prioritised the development of the region as a whole.
“Commitments such as today’s are vital to giving industry the confidence to co-invest and get developments moving — which is important for bringing jobs to Western Sydney,” Mr Mookhey said.
“Importantly, the announcement includes $100 million in infrastructure funding to support new bus services to Western Sydney Airport and the emerging city of Bradfield.
“Funding will also go to continuing the critical planning work for key precinct road and rail connections, which will be crucial to establishing the next round of priority projects.”
New South Wales Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen, said that this is a big win for passengers right across Western Sydney.
“I want to thank the Federal Government who have stepped up to help deliver the future bus services that will connect passengers in the West to the new airport when it opens in 2026,” Ms Haylen said.
“Support for the Western Sydney Freight line isn’t just about growing the Aerotropolis precinct. It’s also about getting freight off our roads and onto our rails so there’s more space for Western Sydney drivers and less traffic.
“Cities can’t grow without the transport links that get people and goods from place to place. That is why this is such an important, city shaping commitment from the Federal Government to help deliver the transport links which will help the new city here grow.”
Image credit: SteveTritton/shutterstock.com
