Labor was Warned: Greens Back $200 Million Bird Flu Response

Senator Sarah Hanson-Young is backing calls from leading conservation organisations, including BirdLife Australia and the Invasive Species Council, for the Federal Government to establish a $200 million emergency response fund to combat the growing threat posed by the H5N1 avian influenza outbreak.

The call comes after Senator Hanson-Young warned the Federal Government about the risk of an outbreak nearly two years ago, writing to the Environment and Agriculture Ministers in September 2024 urging immediate action to strengthen Australia’s preparedness.

Sarah Hanson-Young, Senator for SA and spokesperson for Environment and Water: 

“Australia is staring down one of the biggest domestic crises since Covid, and the Government has had almost two years to prepare for it.

”The Government must urgently boost funding to help save our Australian native wildlife from this deadly virus. 

“The experience around the world shows that this strain of bird flu will be devastating to Australian wildlife and could push iconic species like Tassie Devils, black swans and sea lions to the brink of extinction.

“If the Albanese Government are serious about protecting wildlife then they must urgently scale up the funding to build wildlife population resilience.

“The Government has known this threat was coming for nearly two years. Australians deserve to know whether Labor spent that time preparing for the outbreak or simply hoping it wouldn’t happen.

“The Government has been well aware of the risks. The question now is whether it has done enough to prepare.

“If H5N1 becomes established in Australia, the consequences for our native birds, marine life and unique ecosystems could be devastating. We cannot afford to be caught flat-footed.

“Australia is home to some of the most unique wildlife on Earth, and many of our most iconic species could be placed at risk if this virus becomes established in wild populations.

“Now that this crisis is at our doorstep, the Government must show it has done the work and provide the resources needed to protect Australia’s wildlife, environment and agricultural industries.

“A $200 million emergency response fund is the minimum required to ensure wildlife carers, conservation organisations, scientists and governments have the resources they need to respond rapidly and effectively.

“Protecting Australia’s biodiversity requires more than thoughts and prayers. It requires a well-funded, coordinated national response, and it requires it now.

Additional Fuel Excise Relief for the Month of July

The Albanese Government will extend fuel excise relief for another month, making petrol and diesel 16 cents per litre cheaper versus normal prices for July, saving Australians around $11 per tank.
 
This is more temporary support that will help take the sting out of petrol prices and help Australians with the cost of living.
 
In addition, the Albanese Government will reduce the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge by 16 cents for the same period to help truckies keep Australia moving.
 
We acknowledge the contribution of the States and Territories to use their GST revenue to fund a 5.7% portion of the fuel excise cut over the last three months and will seek support from the states for July at National Cabinet on Monday.
 
We welcome the agreement this week by the United States and Iran, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
 
The extension to the fuel excise cut we’ve announced today recognises that economic and fuel stability recovery will take time, and our action provides a graduated return to normal settings for the fuel excise.
 
We’ll continue to do what we can to shield Australians from the worst impacts of this conflict including securing additional fuel from our partners.
 
Despite the welcome and substantial drop in the price of petrol recently, we recognise people are still under pressure.
 
This extra month of fuel discount will help Australian motorists and businesses with the cost of living as this support tapers off.
 
We announced a three-month cut to the fuel excise of 32 cents per litre back in March alongside reducing the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge to zero and deferring the next scheduled increase by six months.
 
The 16 cents a litre extension to the fuel tax cut that we’ve announced today will reduce the cost of a 65L tank of fuel by around $11.
 
On top of our other cost of living help including more tax cuts for every taxpayer, this will make a meaningful difference when it comes to helping Australians make ends meet.
This cut will commence from 1 July and run to 2 August.
 
That means that from next month, we’ll have more temporary help with the cost of living in an extension to the fuel tax cut, and more permanent help with the cost of living in another round of tax cuts for every taxpayer, both beginning on July 1.
 
By tapering off the fuel tax cut, this will also help to manage demand at service stations towards the end of the month.
 
The cost of the extension to the fuel excise cut and the reduction in the Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge will be around $400 million.
 
We’re slashing the fuel excise and the road user charge for truckies and we expect the savings to be passed on to Australians.
 
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is continuing to monitor fuel prices to help ensure that the lower excise rate is fully passed on at the bowser, backed by stronger penalties and additional enforcement resourcing.
 
In addition to today’s announcement, since the conflict in the Middle East began in February, the Albanese Government has taken swift action on fuel including:

  • Allocating $2.9 billion to more than halve the fuel excise and reduce the heavy vehicle road user charge to zero for three months from 1 April to 30 June.
  • Creating the $7.5 billion Fuel and Fertiliser Security Facility supporting additional supply and storage
  • Boosting the Minimum Stockholding Obligation for all fuel types
  • Providing $3.2 billion to establish the Australian Fuel Security Reserve and bring our total stocks of diesel and jet fuel to 50 days
  • Securing nearly 800 million litres of diesel and 150 million litres of jet fuel through Export Finance Australia
  • Legislating new ACCC powers to enable faster, coordinated industry responses during exceptional circumstances
  • Releasing $1.1 billion in support for domestic production of low carbon liquid fuels
  • Providing over $80 million to roll out more kerbside and regional EV chargers and electrify Australia Post’s delivery fleet
  • Fair Work Commission Fuel Cost Recovery Chain Order, which came into effect on 21 April 2026, facilitating the ability of road transport businesses to pass on increased fuel costs through the contractual chain
  • $1 billion Economic Resilience Program under the National Reconstruction Fund, providing zero‑interest loans to eligible SMEs, including heavy vehicle operators
  • ATO support measures, including extended debt repayment arrangements for businesses facing fuel‑related financial pressures

Since the end of March, petrol prices in most capital cities are around 90 cents per litre lower and diesel prices in most capital cities are around $1 per litre lower. Since the conflict started at the end of February, petrol prices are lower in almost all capital cities and diesel prices are on average around 20 cents per litre higher.
 
Today’s decision recognises that although fuel prices have moderated significantly from their peaks, people remain under cost-of-living pressure.
 
Whether it’s slashing the fuel tax, slashing the road user charge for truckies or tax cuts for every taxpayer, we’re taking action to ease pressure on Australians.
 
Our economic plan is all about helping Australians with the cost of living, addressing inflation and making our economy more productive and extending the fuel excise is an important part of that plan.

Swansea Seawall to be fixed after $7.5 million win

The Swansea Seawall at Belmont Street will finally be repaired and reopened, with $7.5 million now confirmed to get the job done.

The Minns Labor Government has put $7.5 million on the table, with Transport for NSW to work directly with Lake Macquarie City Council to get the repairs moving.

The seawall has been fenced off since 2021 after serious cracking and slope issues made the area unsafe.

Assessments have found that the longer it is left, the greater the risk to the foreshore, the shared path and nearby road infrastructure.

That is why the Minns Government is stepping in to fix it.

The investment will support urgent repairs to the 100-metre section of the seawall, prevent erosion from worsening, protect the roads, housing and foreshore infrastructure, and ensure locals can once again access the nearby shared path.

Construction is expected to begin in late 2026.

Minister for the Hunter and Member for Swansea, Yasmin Catley:

This is a fantastic result for the Swansea community. The seawall has been closed for too long. Locals have been patient, but they are right to want it fixed.

The foreshore is a much-loved part of our community, and this $7.5 million investment is an important step toward protecting it for the future.

I have fought hard for this funding because Swansea deserves better than fences, warning signs and delays.

The advice is clear: the risk here is bigger than one section of the seawall. If it is left as is, it will put pressure on the foreshore, the pathways and the roads. That is why the Minns Government is stepping in to get this moving.”

Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

This is a great outcome for this community.

Without this work, the damage to the seawall would continue to get worse, and the cost and complexity of repairs would only increase.

That’s why the Minns Labor Government is delivering $7.5 million to get these urgent repair works moving.

I’d like to thank Member for Swansea, Yasmin Catley for her strong advocacy on this issue.

This funding is an important step in ensuring we can reopen this asset for the community to enjoy once again.”

Mayor of Lake Macquarie City Council, Adam Shultz:

The Council welcomes this $7.5 million investment to repair and reopen the seawall.

This section of foreshore has been closed for too long, and we know how important it is to locals.

We look forward to supporting Transport for NSW in their delivery and getting these important repairs moving.”

Australia boosts support for Ukraine’s defence

The Albanese Government will provide an additional $100 million in assistance to Ukraine for critical military equipment, as the country continues its fight against Russia’s unjustified and unprovoked invasion. 

Following a commitment of $50 million to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) in December last year, Australia will make two additional $50 million contributions over the next 12 months.

In partnership with NATO, Australia is supporting Ukraine to secure the critical military equipment and capabilities it needs to defend itself, including air defence capabilities and munitions.

This lasting commitment brings Australia’s overall support for Ukraine to over $1.8 billion, including more than $1.6 billion in military assistance since the start of the conflict. 

Australia continues to participate in the Coalition of the Willing, a group of more than 35 countries strengthening support for Ukraine to see a just and lasting peace on its terms. 

The Australian Defence Force also continues to train Armed Forces of Ukraine personnel under Operation Kudu, with training now being conducted in Poland under the Norwegian‑led multinational Operation Legio.

Australia remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russian aggression.

Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles:

“What happens in Ukraine matters here in the Indo-Pacific, which is why it is so important for Australia to stay the course and continue to stand with Ukraine until they find peace on their terms.

“Australia was proud to be the first non-NATO contributor to the Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List, alongside New Zealand.

“Our ongoing contribution ensures that Ukraine is receiving the support it needs to make a tangible difference in its defence against Russia’s unjustified and unprovoked aggression”.

Changes to tax reform legislation

The Greens are continuing discussions with the government on its tax package.

“We are pleased that Labor will amend the sweeping ministerial powers after we raised them in discussions,” Greens Economic Justice spokesperson Senator Nick McKim said.

“But the absurdly generous grandfathering provisions make this legislation a major missed opportunity.”

“There is $33 billion a year just in negative gearing handouts for people with two or more properties – this is money that could directly fund cost of living relief for renters and mortgage holders.”

“We are yet to see Labor’s amendments, but we are continuing discussions and look forward to seeing them soon.”

“Despite the changes, Labor’s lack of ambition means the housing crisis will remain more harmful and long lasting than it needs to be.”

Community and councillors give green light to Climate Action Plan

City of Newcastle will charge towards a goal of net zero emissions by 2030 with a roadmap featuring 77 actions that address the root causes of climate change.

Councillors voted last night to endorse the Newcastle Climate Action Plan 2026 – 2030, ensuring climate action will be considered across all City of Newcastle operations, including maintaining a 100% renewable electricity supply, expanding our battery network, and transitioning our fleet, plant and equipment to electric or low emission alternatives.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability Marnie Kikken said achieving meaningful emission reductions requires rapid, transformative change.

“To achieve net zero emissions in our operations, we’ll need to invest an additional $42 million over the next five years,” Ms Kikken said.

“We’ll be seeking at least 50% of this through state and federal grants, commercial partnerships and other funding mechanisms.

“City of Newcastle has already secured $5 million from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency to deliver a battery deployment program, including a 10MWh battery at the Summerhill solar farm, and another 3.8MWh in 11 batteries across our facilities.

“If the Climate Action Plan can be fully implemented, it’s estimated City of Newcastle would see a return of between $3.5 million to $4 million per year from 2030 thanks to revenue from the Community Energy Precinct, savings from solar and Battery energy storage systems, fuel savings and gas to electric savings.”

“The plan not only outlines City of Newcastle’s pathway to net zero emissions by 2030, but also supports a Newcastle wide transition to net zero by 2040, in alignment with the goals of the Paris Agreement.

“The Climate Action Plan adopts a holistic approach to addressing climate change with a focus on creating flourishing lives for all Novocastrians. Climate action is not only about reducing emissions and managing risks, but also about supporting a healthy, resilient, inclusive and liveable city.”

The plan was developed using economic modelling, scientific research, cost-benefit analysis and extensive community consultation.

“Our community needs to see the Climate Action Plan as credible and deliverable so we’ve made amendments to the plan based on their feedback,” Ms Kikken said.

“A total of 239 submissions were received during public exhibition, with almost 80% agreeing climate action is a high priority, and 83% supportive of nature-based solutions, such as urban greening, tree planting and ecosystem restoration.

“Public feedback showed more than 70% of respondents agreed with the science-based targets contained in the plan.

“City of Newcastle is also conducting a feasibility study for a Community Energy Precinct at the Astra Street landfill site at Sandgate, which was supported by the community.”

The 60-hectare site operated from 1974 to 1995 before City of Newcastle started extensive environmental remediation to safeguard the water quality of surrounding wetlands, increase biodiversity and promote long-term native plant growth.

The proposed Astra Street Community Energy Precinct resonated strongly with respondents as a tangible project that brings together several priorities supported by the community including renewable energy, electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and smart repurposing of underutilised land.

For more information about the adopted Newcastle Climate Action Plan 2026 – 2030 visit our website.

Financial sustainability balances Budget to benefit every Novocastrian

City of Newcastle will invest a record $458 million into projects and services across the local government area next year under a Budget driven by community benefits and financial sustainability. 

Councillors unanimously voted Tuesday night to adopt the 2026/27 Budget, which includes more than $128 million to maintain and deliver infrastructure across Newcastle to meet the needs of the growing population.

Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said a modest forecast operating surplus of $450,000 in 2026/27 will keep City of Newcastle well positioned to deal with potential unexpected costs as they arise.

“The current environment and growing cost of living pressures are challenging,” Mr Bath said.

“Maintaining an annual surplus in the past has allowed us to react when the community has needed us in situations like Wickham wool sheds fire, the Lambton landslip, and the recent Mayfield fire, without sending us into the red.

“This is a continuation of our responsible financial budgeting over the past decade, with City of Newcastle last year ranked ninth in the state for financial sustainability and the only local council in the top 20 ranked councils in NSW.

“We have a duty to be responsible with ratepayer funds, especially in a challenging economic environment where everyone is feeling the pinch of rising costs, and this Budget reflects our commitment to sound financial management and sustainability.” 

City of Newcastle’s Acting Chief Financial Officer Scott Moore said this Budget reflects the thoughtful and constructive feedback provided by the community, with 100 submissions received during its recent public exhibition.

“We had a record number of submissions this year, which reinforced the need for us to continue balancing our investment in services and infrastructure with careful financial management,” Mr Moore said.

“Key themes included a desire to see us focus on cost-of-living pressures, the impact of fees and charges on community groups and organisations, and equitable allocation of spending.

“This Budget meets those expectations, from providing everyday benefits in areas such as road renewal, cycleways, and footpaths, and delivering congestion relief for those who travel through our city’s Western Corridor, to continuing the ongoing renewal and maintenance of our assets across the city.

“In setting our fees and charges for the next financial year we’ve reaffirmed our commitments to equity, inclusion and access, with targeted concessions for charities and not-for-profit organisations who use facilities across Newcastle.”

City of Newcastle continues to provide highly subsidised access to Crown Land, with rent capped at $625 per year to enable groups like Surf Life Saving Clubs, Scouts, Girl Guides, Men’s Sheds and sporting clubs to focus on delivering important services to the community.

Further support is provided through fee reductions at Summerhill Waste Management Centre for charitable organisations while funding will be provided in rates assistance relief for eligible customers experiencing financial hardship.

Council also voted last night for the continuation of the $2 entry fee at its inland pools at Beresfield, Wallsend, Mayfield and Stockton, and the implementation of a $2 entry fee for all concession card holders at Lambton Park War Memorial Swim Centre. 

The Council will seek to identify how the cost of these subsidised entry fees can be absorbed into the 2026/27 Budget as part of its September quarterly review.

New hemp plan opens doors to opportunities for industry and the environment

The Minns Labor Government’s new Hemp Industry Development Plan is set to unlock new opportunities for NSW businesses and add value to the state’s low-THC hemp industry, which is forecast to become a $100 million Australian industry by 2032.

The plan, available at NSW Hemp Industry Development Plan, outlines a roadmap for industry growth through targeted research and development, stronger supply chains, market expansion and a supportive policy and regulatory framework.

The Hemp Industry Plan will focus on:

  • Identifying opportunities to grow the hemp industry by attracting private investment, improving access to processing and value-adding facilities, and supporting Aboriginal businesses to participate in the industry.
  • Improving the NSW hemp licensing system and reviewing legislation to make it easier for the industry to operate and grow.
  • Strengthening research partnerships and providing hemp businesses with better information and advice on growing, production, biosecurity, and business development.
  • Working with other states and the Australian Government to create a more consistent approach to hemp regulation across Australia.

Developed in consultation with industry stakeholders, the plan sets a vision for hemp to become a mainstream crop of the future, creating new opportunities for farmers, manufacturers and regional communities across NSW.

Industrial hemp has huge potential for use as a fibre for textiles, rope, composites and building materials with additional environmental benefits in providing biomass for soil improvement and carbon capture.

Hemp seeds can be used to produce oils, food ingredients, protein powder and cosmetics.

Globally, it is estimated that hemp is used in more than 25,000 products spanning nine sub-markets, including agriculture, building materials and textiles.

Collaboration between industry, stakeholders and government will be critical to delivering the plan with the NSW Hemp Industry Taskforce reinstated to monitor the progress of the plan’s delivery. 

The plan focuses on areas where government, industry and stakeholders can collaborate to address local needs and position the NSW industrial hemp industry to capitalise on the potential global and domestic growth of this emerging industry. 

NSW Government amendments are planned to enhance the regulatory framework for hemp licence holders in NSW. 

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty, said:

“The Minns Labor Government is backing industrial hemp as a new growth industry for regional NSW — creating jobs, attracting investment and supporting sustainable regional development.”

“The Hemp Industry Development Plan is a game changer, positioning NSW to build a modern, innovative and profitable hemp sector.”

“This plan will unlock new investment and opportunity in regional NSW, strengthening the state’s emerging industrial hemp industry for the future.”

“We’re working closely with the NSW Hemp Industry Taskforce to turn this vision into action and deliver a strong, sustainable future for the hemp industry.”

Minns Labor Government backs the growing Hunter with over 100 new bus services

The Minns Labor Government is delivering a major boost to public transport in the Hunter, with more than 100 additional bus services every week set to transform how people move around one of the fastest growing regions in NSW. 

Part of the Minns Government’s $150 million Bus Service Uplift Program, the investment will provide frequent, reliable and accessible public transport options for thousands of residents across the Hunter.

The addition of these new services means that more than 650 new bus services – both school and regular route – have been introduced by into the Hunter by the Minns Labor Government since March 2023.

In regional communities across the Hunter, buses are a critical part of everyday life. They make it possible to get to work, attend school, access healthcare, support local businesses and stay connected to the rest of their community. More services mean more flexibility and more opportunities to participate in their community.

The additional services will deliver more night-time and weekend travel options for communities including Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Singleton, Maitland, North Rothbury, Huntlee, Branxton, Greta, Lochinvar and Windella.

Importantly, the improved timetable will strengthen connections with other public transport services across Greater Newcastle, making journeys smoother and reducing reliance on private vehicles.

From 28 June, Route 164 between Cessnock and Maitland via Kurri Kurri, will receive an additional 32 services each week. Services will run hourly, seven days a week, providing improved access for the rapidly growing communities of Gillieston Heights, Cliftleigh and Heddon Greta.

From 19 July, Route 179 between North Rothbury and Green Hills Shopping Centre via Maitland, will receive an additional 70 services each week. For the first time, the route will operate on Sundays and public holidays, providing greater flexibility and accessibility for residents across the growing Huntlee and North Rothbury areas.

The service expansion is another example of the Minns Labor Government delivering the services needed to support a growing Hunter, ensuring local communities remain connected, accessible and great places to live, work and raise a family.

For a summary of changes coming into effect from Sunday 28 June please visit: https://transportnsw.info/news/2026/hunter-bus-changes-from-sunday-28-june

Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley: 

“The Hunter is one of the fastest growing places in New South Wales, and we’re making sure our region gets the services to match.

“Strong communities are built on strong connections, and these extra services are just one part of our plan to keep workers, students, and families moving.

“This is about better connecting the people who call the Hunter home and the many more choosing to come here.”

Minister for Regional Transport, Jenny Aitchison: 

“In regional communities across the Hunter, the distance between where people, live, work and access services can be significant.

“Rolling out over 100 new bus services for the Hunter recognises this reality, as well as the incredible growth we’re seeing across the region.

“These additional services will give people more options and more freedom – to get to appointments, pop down to the shops, visit family and friends, and stay connected to their community. Importantly, it will make everyday life that little bit easier.

“This investment by the Minns Labor Government reflects what local communities already know – the Hunter is booming, and we’re committed to making sure services keep pace with that growth.”

Member for Cessnock, Clayton Barr:

“These extra bus services are a big win for local residents, especially in growing communities like Cessnock, North Rothbury and Heddon Greta.

“I know how important public transport services are for our community, and this will make it easier for people to get where they need to go. More services -particularly in the evenings and on weekends—mean better connectivity, more convenience and stronger links to jobs, education and shopping across the region”

$600 million boost fast-tracks major western Sydney road upgrades

The Minns Labor Government is investing an additional $300 million in the 2026-27 NSW Budget to fast-track critical upgrades to Elizabeth Drive and Fifteenth Avenue, accelerating delivery of two of Western Sydney’s most important road projects.

The NSW Government’s investment will be matched by the Albanese Labor Government, delivering a combined $600 million boost to get these critical projects underway sooner.

As Western Sydney continues to grow, so does the demand on its road network.

This major investment will expand the scope of the projects and bring construction forward, with work on both projects set to begin in late 2026, a year earlier than planned.

This will ease congestion, improve safety and strengthen connections to the new Western Sydney International Airport.

The Fifteenth Avenue Upgrade will receive an additional $400 million, with the Australian and NSW Governments each contributing $200 million, bringing total project funding to $1.4 billion.

The Elizabeth Drive Upgrade will receive an additional $200 million, with the Australian and NSW Governments each contributing $100 million, bringing total project funding to $1 billion.

Together, these projects represent a $2.4 billion investment in Western Sydney’s future, delivering the roads and transport connections needed to support growing communities, unlock new housing and jobs, and ensure residents can benefit sooner from the opportunities created by Western Sydney International Airport.

Fifteenth Avenue Upgrade

The additional funding has enabled key design improvements in response to community and council feedback, including:

  • improved bus infrastructure and better integration with future public transport needs; and
  • enhanced road connections and access to surrounding residential and industrial estates, including an extension of Edmondson Avenue into the project scope.

The upgrade between Cowpasture Road and Devonshire Road will deliver two lanes in each direction, improve connections to surrounding local roads, enhance access to Western Sydney Parklands and provide safer crossings for local wildlife.

Planning will also continue for a future dedicated bus corridor along Fifteenth Avenue, supporting the region’s long-term public transport needs.

Elizabeth Drive Upgrade

The additional investment comes in response to community and industry feedback and will deliver extra scope including:

  • 1.5 kilometres of additional road duplication from South Creek to the M12 interchange with Western Sydney International Airport; and
  • A major upgrade of the Elizabeth Drive and Martin Road intersection, completing a key connection to the airport, surrounding industrial estates and supporting the growing Aerotropolis.

The project has also been refined to deliver safer and more efficient intersections at key locations along the corridor including a new, signalised intersection at Clifton Avenue, improved bridge connections across Badgerys Creek and South Creek and reduce impacts on local business and community facilities.

This investment builds on more than $7.4 billion the NSW Minns Labor Government has funded for Western Sydney roads since 2023 and is part of our plan to build the infrastructure growing communities need now, for a better future.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

“These are welcome investments that will help us deliver the roads Western Sydney needs, sooner.

“With airport operations ramping up over the coming months, Western Sydney’s upgraded road networks will soon be put to the test.

“These additional upgrades, now jointly-funded by the Albanese and Minns Governments, will mean people and goods can continue travelling in and out of the airport efficiently as traffic volumes increase.”

NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Western Sydney, Prue Car:

“The Minns Labor Government is committed to upgrading roads across Western Sydney so families can spend less time in traffic and more time together.

“This investment delivers what the former Liberal National government failed to do when they allowed development to run rampant across South West Sydney without the essential roads and infrastructure needed.”

NSW Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison:

“The Minns Labor Government knows Western Sydney deserves better, and this additional $600 million investment in the NSW Budget makes sure that happens. Better roads, less time stuck in traffic and infrastructure that finally matches the ambition of this extraordinary region.

“Western Sydney is one of the most exciting places to live, work and raise a family. Cranes are on the skyline, new businesses are opening their doors, and a brand-new international airport is putting this region on the world map.

“But this doesn’t change the reality of locals who are feeling the impact. Due to the lack of any investment in Fifteenth Avenue by the former Liberal Government, daily commutes that should take 20 minutes are taking an hour. People are staying late at work to avoid gridlock traffic. That time should be spent with family.

“Over $7.4 billion has been invested by the Minns and Albanese Labor Governments since we came to office to get Western Sydney moving again. Local MPs have been advocating for years and finally have a Minns Labor Government building better communities right across Western Sydney.”

Federal Member for Werriwa, Anne Stanley:

“Western Sydney is home to one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and these investments ensure its infrastructure keeps up.

“By bringing forward delivery of Elizabeth Drive and Fifteenth Avenue, we’re supporting jobs, industry and better connections to Western Sydney International Airport.”

NSW Member for Leppington, Nathan Hagarty:

“For too long, locals have told me about being stuck in traffic just trying to do the everyday things – getting to work, dropping the kids off or getting home.

“This investment means easier, quicker and safer trips for the people who live and work here”.