The NSW Nationals in the state government have delivered vital funding in the 2021-22 NSW Budget to support the recovery and future prosperity of regional communities following drought, bushfires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Duty MLC for Orange Sam Farraway said the people of the Central West are set to benefit from $78.1 million for the Parkes Special Activation Fund towards delivery of the 4,800 hectare for the Special Activation Precinct all thanks to the community working together with the NSW Nationals in the state government to create a safer and stronger future.
“Today I can announce $4.3 million will be invested to continue planning for a Fast Rail route to the Central West as part of the 2020-21 NSW budget, ensuring our communities have access to the same world-class facilities as those in the city,” Mr Farraway said.
“The NSW Nationals in the state government are also delivering $60 million to commence building the Parkes Bypass as part of the upgrades of the Newell highway to improve connectivity for businesses and families, whether transporting food and fibre, traveling for leisure, or driving home after a long day at work.
“This year’s Budget also sees $18.7 million invested into Bletchington Public School for ongoing major upgrades and refurbishment, ensuring quality education options for our kids, so they don’t have to leave home or travel to a metropolitan area to get the education they deserve.”
Deputy Premier and Leader of the NSW Nationals John Barilaro said more jobs and infrastructure builds will be delivered through the 2021-22 NSW Budget, to help our regions move through recovery and build on the benefits of regional living.
“Off the back of devastating drought, bushfires and floods, there has never been a more crucial time to support regional NSW by providing job opportunities, new and improved infrastructure and community-backed projects,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This budget has a strong focus on job creating infrastructure builds to ensure local economies remain strong and regional NSW continues to be a fantastic place to live and work. This is the NSW Nationals in the state government delivering for our regions.”
Highlights from the 2021-22 NSW Budget include;
- $107 million to continue planning for the duplication of the Great Western Highway between Katoomba and Lithgow
- $500,000 for the establishment of the Canowindra Healthone
- $24.7 million for improvements along the Great Western Highway and Bells Line of Road corridors, including overtaking lanes and widening of existing lanes
- $246 million to extend and expand the Regional Seniors Travel Card for another 2 years
- $150 million for the Mouse Control Package
- $75 million for Round Eight of the Resources for Regions program
- $100 million for the Regional Job Creation Fund
- $25 million for the Main Western Rail Line for new passing loops to improve the capacity and efficiency of the line
For more information, please go to budget.nsw.gov.au.