Regional Growth Without Public Transport? A Failing Formula

Many in regional areas like New England and across regional NSW argue that growth is impossible without proper public transport—namely rail and road infrastructure. Yet, major political parties continue to push a model that relies heavily on road transport and limited air travel, neglecting serious investment in regional rail.

While countries like Indonesia advance with fast rail networks (e.g., Jakarta to Bandung), Australia remains stuck in endless debates over roads versus rail. Political concerns have blocked cooperation with experienced international rail builders, including Chinese firms, leaving Australia without viable alternatives or progress in modern transport infrastructure.

During the current federal election campaign, it’s crucial to highlight this growing disparity. While the government talks about shifting freight from road to rail to meet net-zero targets, little is done in regional Australia. In NSW, non-operational rail lines outnumber active ones—wasting valuable public assets. Communities like Lismore, often hit by natural disasters, are left without reliable transport alternatives. Why wait for the next flood to address these issues?

In New England, locals have been calling for the restoration of rail services for years. A 10,740-signature petition was submitted to the NSW government in 2023, requesting the reopening of the Armidale to Wallangarra line. The government's response? It asked residents to submit a business case—an unrealistic request for everyday citizens. Isn’t it the government's role to carry out feasibility studies and address public needs?

This rail line holds national significance. Despite being excluded from the Inland Rail route, which has since ballooned in cost from under $10 billion to over $32 billion, there’s still time to reconsider alternatives that could offer cost savings and better regional connectivity.

In the absence of rail, highways like the New England and Pacific are overburdened by freight trucks, leading to rising maintenance costs and increased accidents. Meanwhile, residents without cars struggle to access essential services. There isn’t even a direct bus service linking towns like Armidale, Glen Innes, or Tenterfield to major centres in Queensland.

Politicians, often insulated by government transport perks, don’t feel the urgency. The public is left wondering if vested interests, like the trucking industry, are influencing this inaction.

As election day nears, rail advocates in New England are urging candidates to take a stand. Major parties must treat regional public transport as a priority, not an afterthought. The National Party claims to represent regional Australia but overlooks transport equity. The Labor candidate is listening but lacks concrete plans. The Greens’ position remains unclear.

Regional Australians deserve the same public transport access as people in Sydney or Newcastle.