The NSW Nationals in Government’s Regional Rail Project is delivering on its promise to create regional jobs and stimulate the economy, with the first major contract for work on the new Regional Rail Maintenance Facility awarded to a Dubbo-based business.
NSW Nationals Member for Dubbo Dugald Saunders was joined by Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole on Tuesday to announce that MAAS Civil will be responsible for bulk earthworks ahead of the start of major construction later this year.
Mr Saunders welcomed the news that a local business has been awarded one of the first major contracts for work, reaffirming his desire for regional businesses to deliver regional projects where possible.
“The Regional Rail Maintenance Facility will be a real boost for the Dubbo economy and I look forward to other local businesses getting involved,” Mr Saunders said.
“One of the major advantages of having projects like this in our electorate is the ability to keep our workers in work, especially in the wake of prolonged drought and the COVID-19 pandemic. This facility is a significant part of a multi-billion dollar project, and is a massive boost for Dubbo and the region.”
Mr Toole said the NSW Nationals in Government were committed to investing in regional infrastructure and creating new opportunities for businesses in the bush.
“The $2.8 billion Regional Rail Project will create new opportunities for regional NSW businesses and suppliers such as MAAS Civil,” Mr Toole said.
“The maintenance facility is expected to generate around 200 jobs during the construction phase and approximately 50 ongoing jobs when it opens, including apprenticeships and traineeships.”
Mr Saunders also announced a new Business Support Catalogue for organisations wanting to tender for work and for businesses already engaged on the project.
“We want to ensure regional businesses become long term beneficiaries. This Business Support Catalogue provides information on programs and grants for businesses in the region to build capability, capacity and develop their employees’ skills,” he said.
The Business Support Catalogue can be found online at https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/regional-rail.
