Budget Must Boost the Hunter
There is no doubt that the Hunter region is one of Australia’s most dynamic and vibrant cities with a massive level of private and public investment.
Strong investment creates a virtuous cycle. Even more businesses and skilled workers are attracted to the lifestyle and opportunities the region has to offer.
However, at budget time, talk is cheap. As the NSW State Budget approaches on 19 June, now is the time for the investment in the Hunter Region to be stepped up even further.
The focus of the upcoming NSW State Budget should be regional NSW. Commitments to invest in infrastructure that will boost economic activity, drive development and job opportunities are essential.
The strategic planning is all but done. The Greater Newcastle Metropolitan Plan and the Greater Newcastle Future Transport Plan are close to being finalised. Together these documents are a roadmap to the future for the Hunter and need to be backed up with concrete funding to support implementation.
The Property Council of Australia’s recent budget submission to the NSW Government has put Regional NSW at the forefront of our recommendations focusing on projects that will turbocharge growth and jobs.
We have made it clear that, especially in an election year, the Hunter deserves a fair share for the region.
Transport investment needs to continue to be a priority. The long-term sustainability of Newcastle’s transport network requires a focus on interchange, multimodal integration and light rail.
We’ve also called on the Government to fund the extension of the Newcastle Light Rail, from Wickham to Broadmeadow as a first step, however to get optimal value, the Government needs to extend it to the University of Newcastle Callaghan campus.
Funding of $32 million also needs to be committed for the next section of the Lake Macquarie Transport Interchange to create a direct link between Glendale and Cardiff.
A terminal upgrade for Newcastle Airport is another high priority and a dedicated freight rail line between Fassifern and Hexham is needed. A dedicated freight rail line between bypassing Newcastle will improve regional and interstate links and has the potential to improve passenger train travel
times. Investment in the airport will improve access to global supply chains for local businesses, and give a growing platform for local companies to engage in international trade along with increased tourism opportunities. These investments are vital to the ongoing productivity and growth of Newcastle.
Better transport links between Sydney and Newcastle are also a priority. Improving connectivity is crucial to opening up housing and business opportunities across the Hunter.