Regional Cities New South Wales (RCNSW) has taken its case for a $350 million government investment to clear chokepoints in the state’s freight network to Macquarie Street.

A delegation representing RCNSW members has met with state government and shadow ministers to advocate for government support to recoup tens of millions of dollars in lost efficiencies each year across the freight network.

RCNSW Chair Cr Steve Krieg said a business case commissioned by RCNSW had identified 93 chokepoints across the state’s freight network responsible for $80 million in lost efficiencies annually. 

“The Regional Transport Pinch Point Program report took a detailed look across the state to identify areas in the freight network in need of upgrading. It found the network’s connectivity and efficiency would be improved with a $346 million investment in 10 priority projects,” Cr Krieg said.

The delegation’s meetings last week included the Minister for Transport and Roads John Graham, Deputy Opposition Leader and Shadow Minister for Regional New South Wales Dugald Saunders, and Shadow Minister for Tourism, Gaming and Racing, and the Arts and Heritage and Member for Tamworth Kevin Anderson.

Other issues raised by the delegation included investment into regional cities across NSW to increase:

●       housing availability and affordability;

●       water security and Water Risk Management (particularly in relation to per and polyfluoroalkyl);

●       regional aviation and airports; and 

●       access to more skills to support regional businesses and service delivery.

Cr Krieg said the meetings were a valuable opportunity to advocate for government investment in the freight network ahead of the June 2025 State Budget.

“Our RCNSW delegation also discussed with the government ways the State Government could help to address the shortage of housing in regional cities, including by assisting to speed up the development of shovel-ready land,” Cr Krieg said.

“We also recommended a range of measures to enhance water security across its member cities, including ongoing funding for at-risk regional water infrastructure,” Cr Krieg concluded.