The Hon. Paul Toole, Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, The Hon. Sam Farraway, Minister for Regional Transport and Roads (NSW), Joint Media Release, 15 October 2022

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole has called on the Federal Labor Government to come clean on its plans for regional NSW in the Budget after it told media regional infrastructure funds were on the chopping block.

“On 15 October 2022 we’ve had the strongest indication yet that Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers is preparing to take the axe to regional infrastructure projects in this month’s Budget,” Mr Toole said.

“If that’s the case, he should be upfront now about which projects they plan to take the hatchet to and which regional communities will miss out.

“This is the same old thing from Labor who don’t get why investment in the regions matters.

“The NSW Government has built a record $19.4 billion pipeline of transport and road projects alone in regional NSW that is transforming our state, unlocking new economic opportunities for our communities and ensuring safer, faster journeys for families and freight. Because we know building infrastructure in the bush builds opportunities.”

Mr Toole called on NSW Labor leader Chris Minns to finally stand up for the principle that regional NSW deserves its fair share.

“Sadly while Federal Labor is preparing to axe regional infrastructure projects, NSW Labor conference is gathering in Sydney where it’s expected to axe the Shadow Minister for Regional NSW from Labor’s Legislative Council ticket – the only person on its team that understands the bush.

“If Chris Minns won’t even fight to save one of his own frontbenchers, what chance is there he will bother fighting for regional communities?”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said the NSW Government had delivered three consecutive record transport and roads budgets for regional NSW.

“We’ve invested in transformative projects right across the State – like the upgrade of the Great Western Highway and Princes Highway – and small projects that make a big difference in local communities.

“But we can’t do it alone. Continued federal funding is critical to us keeping these projects on track.

“Labor is clearly trying to test what the reaction will be to it cutting regional infrastructure projects in this month’s Budget.

“I can tell them this for free – regional communities will not accept this shabby treatment.

“Pulling the pin on regional infrastructure projects send a very clear message that Labor is willing to scapegoat the bush to improve its bottom line.”