Failure of the Minns Government on Regional Rail Revival

The Minns Government has failed to address the growing transport infrastructure deficit in regional New South Wales, particularly the need to revive the regional railway network.

Throughout its term, the Government has repeatedly stated that Transport for NSW was preparing regional transport plans for the state's nine regions. However, when you examine the draft plans produced by Transport for NSW, the focus is largely on expanding bus services and active transport, with little or no commitment to upgrading the Country Rail Network (CRN) or reopening disused rail corridors.

More than 3,000 kilometres of regional rail lines remain unused, and many of these are strategic corridors rather than minor branch lines. By comparison, Victoria has invested more than $4 billion in upgrading and expanding its regional rail network over recent years.

During the parliamentary budget estimates hearings earlier this year, it became apparent that, from a transport budget of around $55 billion, only about $1.25 billion was allocated to regional NSW. This raises serious questions about whether regional communities are receiving a fair share of transport investment.

Many regional voters are unlikely to be persuaded by further promises without meaningful action. Successive Labor and Coalition governments have largely neglected regional rail revival. Instead, both appear willing to support the conversion of disused rail corridors into rail trails or bike trails, effectively shifting long-term responsibility for these public assets to local councils, as has occurred in parts of the Northern Rivers.

If the Government is genuinely committed to its decarbonisation agenda, why is it not investing in regional rail revival and encouraging a greater shift of freight from road to rail?

Recent international events have highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains and the importance of resilient domestic transport networks. These developments reinforce the need for a long-term strategy that strengthens regional rail infrastructure as part of Australia's economic resilience and sustainability.

Planning alone is not enough. While Transport for NSW can develop transport plans, governments must provide the policy direction, funding, and political leadership needed to make strategic investments that serve the long-term interests of regional communities and the nation.