MEDIA STATEMENT
Outback Highway Development Council Calls for Federal Election Commitment to Essential Infrastructure
The Outback Highway Development Council Inc. (OHDC) seeks commitment from all political parties to prioritise critical infrastructure investments across the Outback Way in the lead-up to the 2025 federal election. The OHDC is advocating for essential water, power, and communications infrastructure to be made readily available to Outback communities, ensuring equitable access to services that are fundamental to economic growth, safety, and social wellbeing.
“The Outback is home to vibrant communities and industries that contribute significantly to Australia’s economy. However, access to reliable water, power, and communications remains a challenge for many,” said Pat Hill, Chair of the OHDC. “These are basic rights that should be available to all Australians, it shouldn’t matter where you live. We need the government to do this work now, not down the track. We call on all parties to commit to delivering the infrastructure needed to support the long-term prosperity of Outback communities and industries.”
The OHDC’s lobbying agenda highlights the transformative impact of infrastructure investment across the Outback Way, the nation's longest shortcut linking Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland. By improving essential services, the federal government can unlock economic development opportunities, enhance safety for remote residents and travellers, and strengthen community and industry connectivity.
“A sealed Outback Way is only part of the equation. Sustainable development in regional inland Australia hinges on access to fundamental services,” added Mel Forbes General Manager, OHDC.
With the 2025 federal election on the horizon, the OHDC urges candidates to recognise the Outback’s potential and take decisive action to ensure people and businesses are supported with the services they need to thrive.
Key Facts:
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Organisation Involved: Outback Highway Development Council Inc. (OHDC).
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Call to Action: OHDC is urging all political parties to commit to essential infrastructure investment ahead of the 2025 federal election.
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Infrastructure Focus: The OHDC is advocating for improved access to water, power, and communications infrastructure across the Outback Way.
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Purpose: To ensure equitable access to vital services that support economic growth, safety, and social wellbeing in Outback communities.
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Statement from Chair: Pat Hill, Chair of the OHDC, emphasized that reliable access to these services is a basic right and should not be delayed.
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Geographical Scope: The Outback Way connects Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and Queensland, and is known as the nation’s longest shortcut.
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Economic and Social Benefits: Infrastructure investment is positioned as transformative, capable of enhancing economic development, safety, and connectivity for communities and industries.
About us:
The Outback Highway Development Council Inc is an Alliance of Councils from across the Outback Way
