The NSW Government has invested $135 million in 33 projects across regional NSW as part of the Fixing Country Roads and Rail program.
The $1 billion Fixing Country Roads and Rail program’s focus on improving regional freight infrastructure and efficiency.
Deputy Premier of NSW, John Barilaro, said the program aims to support the economic productivity of regional NSW by reducing the cost of getting goods to market.
“Every 100km out of a truck driver’s way costs $200. By providing better connections between our roads and freight hubs we will save NSW businesses almost $1 billion over the next 20 years,” Mr Barilaro said.
Since 2014, Fixing Country Roads has made more than $541 million available to 300 projects.
Freight is worth $66 billion to the NSW economy. Regional NSW produces 255 million tonnes of freight year – this will grow by twelve per cent by 2036.
Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight, Melinda Pavey, said it was critical for NSW to have the best freight network possible as the global marketplace becomes more competitive.
“I want to ensure NSW farmers, manufactures and miners are in the best position as significant opportunities are presented by new and emerging markets” Mrs Pavey said.
