22 June 2021: The NRMA has today welcomed the NSW Budget commitment for transport and the investment in tourism to fast-track the sector’s recovery from drought, bushfires, floods and COVID-19.
The NSW Government has increased transport capital expenditure from $16.8 billion last year to $18.7 billion this year, with a significant investment in new road projects.
New projects announced include:
- $2.7 billion for the M6 Stage 1 Extension
- $286 million for the Warringah Freeway Upgrade; and
- $50 million planning for the Parramatta Light Rail
Over $201 million is committed to a slew of road improvements across Western Sydney, including The Horsley Drive, Spring Farm Parkway Stage 1 and Mamre Road, which were identified in the NRMA’s Rate Your Road report as needing more work.
NRMA Group CEO Rohan Lund welcomed the roads, transport and tourism funding.
“We know from our research, and the feedback from our Members, that more road funding has significant flow on effects for road safety, so we’re very happy to see the NSW Government continue its record of investing in major road projects,” Mr Lund said.
“We welcome the Government is getting Parramatta Light Rail off the ground, to help reduce congestion in this fast growing city.
"In the wake of the disruption from the pandemic, it’s vital we get Sydney moving again and we’re pleased that the NSW Government has committed to the Western Sydney Growth Roads program, which will improve access to this fast growing region.
“Investing in regional infrastructure is also vital as so many people are flocking to our regional towns for domestic drive tourism. We welcome the NSW Government’s ongoing commitment to regional roads in this budget with $9 billion for upgrades and improvements."
In recent years, the NRMA has invested heavily in the domestic tourism economy, growing our portfolio of holiday parks and visitor destinations around the country.
“We know the importance of investing in the recovery of the visitor economy and so we welcome the $373 million for the priorities in the Visitor Economy Strategy 2030, the State Significant Event Fund and other product and industry development programs,” Mr Lund said.
