Narrandera Shire Council Mayor Cr Neville Kschenka has expressed disappointment following the release of the 2025-26 NSW Budget, which failed to deliver any new funding for vital infrastructure and services in Narrandera.
“While we welcome ongoing investment in regional health infrastructure in parts of the electorate, Narrandera Shire has once again been overlooked in this budget,” Mayor Kschenka said.
“Despite strong advocacy and growing community need, there is still no funding for urgent upgrades to the Canal Bridge, which remains a critical link for local traffic, emergency services, and freight transport. This is a missed opportunity for a long-standing safety and infrastructure issue.”
The Mayor also highlighted the absence of any allocation for water infrastructure under the Safe and Secure Water program.
“Narrandera’s water supply system is ageing and requires urgent investment. Council has been seeking assistance for a new water filtration plant and the continued lack of funding to support this essential infrastructure is deeply disappointing,” said Mayor Kschenka.
In addition, the Shire remains in the grip of a regional housing crisis, with no meaningful allocation for social housing to address Narrandera’s long and growing housing waitlist.
“For a budget promoted as delivering on health and housing, the failure to invest in new social housing for Narrandera is simply unacceptable,” the Mayor stated.
“We have families, seniors, and vulnerable residents waiting far too long for safe and secure housing.”
Mayor Kschenka said the Narrandera community deserves equitable access to essential infrastructure and services.
“Once again, rural and regional communities like ours are being asked to do more with less. The resilience of our residents is unmatched, but resilience is not a substitute for investment.”
Narrandera Shire Council will continue to advocate for fairer funding and stronger recognition of the infrastructure needs of rural communities.
This article appeared in Narrandera Argus, 3 July 2025.
