GOVERNMENTS URGED TO WORK TOGETHER ON LONG-TERM BLUE MOUNTAINS FREIGHT SOLUTION

Road Freight NSW (RFNSW) is urging the Australian and NSW Governments to work together and deliver a long-term infrastructure solution for the Blue Mountains freight corridor.

 

RFNSW Chief Executive Officer Simon O’Hara said the recent disruption and uncertainty surrounding the corridor had reinforced just how critical the route is to regional NSW and the state’s broader economy, and an alternative route or a tunnel option need to be prioritised.

 

“This goes well beyond the current issue. It’s about Governments working together for all road users, and making sure NSW has a resilient network capable of supporting growing freight demand, regional communities and the economy into the future,” Mr O’Hara said.

 

“That discussion should include an alternative route and putting a tunnel option back on the table as part of future planning.

 

“Freight volumes will only continue to grow and we need infrastructure planning that reflects that reality.”

 

RFNSW said the situation also highlighted the broader need for stronger infrastructure investment across NSW, particularly when compared with other states continuing to secure significant freight and transport funding.

 

This comes alongside new research from the NRMA which reveals the Australian Government is forecast to collect almost $5 billion more in fuel excise over coming years, while overall land transport infrastructure funding has been reduced by $3.8 billion.

 

“There’s increasing pressure on major freight corridors across NSW and industry has been calling for a stronger long-term infrastructure pipeline for some time,” Mr O’Hara said.

 

“NSW cannot afford to fall behind when it comes to freight resilience and nationally significant road infrastructure.”

 

This past week the NSW Government has made announcements on fuel security and transparency, including a fuel security package from NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey, Planning Minister Paul Scully and Minister for Industry and Trade Anoulack Chanthivong, and new legislation passed this week strengthening FuelCheck compliance and fuel price transparency across the state.

 

The fuel security announcement confirmed Investment Delivery was calling for major projects that safeguard against future fuel security shocks, while the latest FuelCheck reforms introduce tougher penalties for retailers failing to accurately report fuel prices and fuel availability.

 

RFNSW welcomed the announcements and said they demonstrated growing recognition of the importance of resilient supply chains, fuel security and freight infrastructure across NSW.

 

“Measures that improve transparency and strengthen confidence in fuel availability are positive steps, but resilience also means having reliable freight corridors, alternative routes and long-term infrastructure planning that supports regional communities and industry,” Mr O’Hara said.

 

RFNSW said it would continue working with government and industry on practical long-term freight and infrastructure solutions for NSW.