Our plan for Regional New South Wales

Our plan for Regional New South Wales

Foreword

Regional communities in New South Wales have faced many challenges in recent years, from floods, drought and biosecurity threats, to cost-of-living pressures.

The 2025-26 Budget includes measures to help with these challenges.

Increased disaster funding, extending our rebuild of essential services, boosting primary industry and investing in regional economic growth are all part of our plan to support our regions as we build a better New South Wales.

Over the next four years, $4.2 billion of state and federal money will support disaster relief and recovery. Since the 2019-20 bushfires, disaster relief and recovery across the State has increased by more than 1,000 per cent compared to the six years prior to 2019-20.

We are boosting biosecurity with an additional $100.0 million to protect our farmers’ production, strengthen control and response programs, and defend our wonderful, unique natural environment for regional communities. We are also investing $41.2 million to modernise the State’s primary industries research and development program so our farmers have the future tools and knowledge to adapt and thrive.

This Budget includes $3.5 billion over four years for hospitals across regional New South Wales, including new funding for the Wollongong Hospital and Health Precinct, and the Forbes Hospital Operating Theatre Redevelopment.

Over the next four years, $2.1 billion will fund new and upgraded schools in regional New South Wales, ensuring every child has access to quality education facilities. The Government is also continuing to boost access to early learning through the delivery of 100 public preschools, with 49 to be built in the regions.

Upgrading roads and infrastructure is essential to improving safety, connectivity and economic opportunity across the State.

This Budget includes $2.8 billion over four years in road-safety funding, with a further $48.0 million to improve mobile coverage on major highways.

The Budget lays the foundation for our economic success in the regions through the investment and programs which will be unlocked by the new Investment Delivery Authority, the Future Jobs and Investment Authority, and the Future Jobs Investment Fund.

Whether it’s helping farmers adapt to biosecurity threats, rebuilding hospitals and schools, or laying the foundations for new industries and jobs – we’re backing our regions.

Because when the regions do well, New South Wales does well.

The Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC

The Hon Daniel Mookhey MLC
NSW Treasurer

The Hon Tara Moriarty MLC

The Hon Tara Moriarty MLC
Minister for Agriculture
Minister for Regional New South Wales
Minister for Western New South Wales

Regional New South Wales highlights

Map of NSW showing the Central Coast, Central West and Orana, Far West, Hunter, Illawarra-Shoalhaven, New England and North West, North Coast, Riverina Murrayand South East and Tablelands

 

3.2 million+
people call regional New South Wales home
Over 286,000
regional businesses
61.1%
regional New South Wales workforce participation rate
70%
share of owner-occupied dwellings in regions

 

$2.1 billion
over the next four years to deliver new and upgraded schools across regional New South Wales
$3.5 billion
capital investment over the next four years for regional hospitals and health facilities
$100.0 million
to sustain critical biosecurity functions to mitigate risks to communities, primary industries and the environment
$100.8 million
for primary industries research and development capabilities across the State to deliver upgrades to regional research facilities and emergency response sites

$2.8 billion
in road safety funding over four years, delivering on commitments in the 2026 Road Safety Action Plan
$4.2 billion
to continue to support natural disaster and recovery programs over the next four years, including Australian Government co-contributions
$27.3 million
to support the establishment of the Future Jobs and Investment Authority, which will lead the economic transition of coal-reliant regions
$255.6 million
for the Murray and Murrumbidgee River Constraints Program to increase connections between rivers and wetlands and floodplains

 

1. Delivering essential services

Supporting our primary industries

Biosecurity is a vital safeguard for the livelihood of regional and rural communities across New South Wales. The Government plays a central role fighting the threats posed by pests, diseases, weeds and contaminants to safeguard agricultural businesses. The 2025-26 Budget invests:

  • $100.0 million to sustain critical biosecurity functions to mitigate risks to communities, primary industries and the environment
  • $41.2 million to enhance and modernise primary industries research and development capabilities at priority research stations across the State, building on an existing $59.6 million to deliver upgrades to regional research facilities and emergency response sites
  • $9.3 million to continue the Feral Pig and Pest Control Program targeting pigs and deer to protect the State’s agricultural productivity and mitigate environmental and economic risks
  • $1.4 million to support the preparedness and national response capabilities in the event of an outbreak of high pathogenicity avian influenza, bringing the total allocation to $2.2 million, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government.

The Budget also invests $17.6 million for facility and asset upgrades, to address safety risks and enable delivery of key landholder and land management services, funded from the Local Land Services Future Fund.

Managing feral pigs and pest animals

Feral pigs and pest animals are invasive species that can have devastating impacts on agricultural production, leading to significant economic losses.

These animals cause damage to crops, pastures, waterholes and fencing. They can prey on livestock, introduce disease and parasites, and cause significant soil disruption and environmental damage.

The Government continues to implement the Feral Pig and Pest Control Program, reflecting its ongoing commitment to reduce population numbers, and their impact on the environment and the State’s agricultural sector.

Over the past two years more than 212,000 feral pigs and 18,000 feral deer have been controlled through broadscale aerial and ground programs.

Local biosecurity officers continue to work with landholders to equip them to manage pest animals into the future, supported through education and training events, and free Vertebrate Pesticide Induction Training courses.

As part of the 2025-26 Budget, the Government is committing a further $9.3 million to continue this program, as forecast drier weather presents an opportunity to suppress pest animal population growth.

Investigating in disaster response and recovery

Regional communities have been hard hit by natural disasters in recent years. The May 2025 floods in the Mid North Coast brought these challenges into sharp focus.

In the six years since the unprecedented 2019-20 bushfires, the NSW and Australian Governments have spent $9.5 billion providing disaster relief and recovery across the State. That averages $1.6 billion per year – more than a 1,000 per cent increase compared to $154.0 million per year on average in the prior six years.

This Budget outlines a further $4.2 billion of disaster relief over the forward estimates, a figure that is likely to increase in response to both previous and potentially new natural disasters. Including Australian Government co-contributions, this includes:

  • $2.3 billion for restoration works to repair local and state roads damaged in major flood events, including in the Hunter and Northern Rivers
  • $1.6 billion for other disaster relief and recovery programs funded through the Disaster Relief Account administered by the NSW Reconstruction Authority
  • $63.2 million for the Resilient Lands Program to unlock new home and land options in safe locations in the Northern Rivers and to support relocations
  • $27.0 million over three years for repair and restoration of water and sewer infrastructure in the Central West, damaged by severe weather and flooding in 2022.

The $4.2 billion investment includes the following assistance measures in response to recent major disasters:

  • $358.3 million over four years, including Australian Government co-contributions, for disaster recovery and relief measures in response to the May 2025 East Coast floods. This includes $56.6 million in immediate assistance in 2024-25
  • $154.5 million over three years, including Australian Government co-contributions, for disaster recovery and relief measures in response to Tropical Cyclone Alfred. This includes $125.5 million in immediate assistance in 2024-25.

Improving community safety

The Government is committed to investing in measures to support community safety and wellbeing in regional and rural New South Wales.

The 2025-26 Budget provides additional investments to maintain emergency services capability to ensure they remain equipped to keep communities safe and respond to emergencies. This includes:

  • $35.9 million for Fire and Rescue NSW to maintain critical fire, rescue and hazardous materials response services
  • $17.0 million for additional Fire and Rescue NSW firefighting appliances. This will enhance operational flexibility and support response, including in the regions
  • investments in the NSW Rural Fire Service and the NSW Police Force to support ongoing aerial capability across firefighting, law enforcement and emergency operations.

To ensure regional communities receive early warnings and to help people make informed decisions during events such as flooding, fires and storms, the Budget also provides $6.4 million to extend the Emergency Alert System.

As part of the broader regional crime response, the Budget also includes $5.1 million in 2025-26 as part of the $20.8 million commitment for the NSW Police Force to deliver Youth Action Meetings. These focus on young people who are persistent offenders, or who would benefit from early intervention and diversion. Youth Action Meeting Coordinators operate across regional and rural communities, including in local Police Districts across all regions in New South Wales.

Two firefighters in uniform smiling.

 

$35.9 million
for Fire and Rescue NSW to maintain critical fire, rescue and hazardous materials response services
 

Protecting our environment

Regional and rural New South Wales is home to many unique plant and animal species. Protecting the environment is a priority for this Government. The 2025-26 Budget includes:

  • $41.4 million for national park projects to reduce vulnerability to future natural disasters
  • $16.7 million in 2025-26 to support the establishment of an Office of Animal Welfare, and to support the animal welfare compliance and enforcement functions of approved charitable organisations
  • $3.1 million over two years for local initiatives that will drive improved environmental and First Nations heritage outcomes in regional areas.

Secure water

This Budget builds on the Government’s commitment to ensuring a secure, reliable and high-quality water supply for regional and rural New South Wales communities. This includes:

  • $319.1 million for the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism Program to improve river health and increase the amount of water returned to the environment
  • $255.6 million for the Murray and Murrumbidgee River Constraints Program to increase the frequency and extent that rivers connect to wetlands and floodplains in the Murrumbidgee and Murray River systems
  • $18.7 million to deliver the Pindari Dam Cold-Water Pollution and Fish Friendly Water Extraction projects under the federal Northern Basin Toolkit, fully funded by the Australian Government
  • $15.0 million over three years to continue the Town Water Risk Reduction Program into Phase Three.

To support flood mitigation activities, the Budget invests $82.1 million over four years towards the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme Repairs and Rebuilding project.

 

$41.4 million
for national park projects to reduce vulnerability to future natural disasters
 

Empowering First Nations communities

Regional and rural New South Wales is home to many First Nations people and holds significant cultural, historical and spiritual importance. The 2025-26 Budget includes a record $731.8 million to support First Nations communities and build upon previous spend to improve outcomes.

The total Closing the Gap package is now $246.8 million. This Budget includes a significant further investment in Closing the Gap, with $202.4 million of new funding, including for regional and rural First Nations communities.

This investment includes:

  • $23.8 million to revitalise First Nations languages through investment in community-led language programs across New South Wales
  • $19.9 million for culturally responsive community-led suicide prevention initiatives across regional New South Wales
  • $12.1 million for the Aboriginal Employment Program to enable First Nations people to practise sustainable natural resource management in the care of flora, fauna and biodiversity
  • $6.2 million for the Community Connectors initiative to support First Nations high school students to overcome barriers to education and access culturally appropriate services across 17 schools in regional New South Wales
  • $5.6 million for Aboriginal Language and Culture Nests to enhance education outcomes in regional schools by supporting cultural preservation, student engagement and employment pathways for First Nations educators
  • $5.5 million for Regional Operations Model hubs to provide place-based mentorship for First Nations students and support their transition from school to further education, training and employment.

Relieving cost-of-living pressures

Cost-of-living pressures remain a challenge for households across New South Wales, including regional communities. In 2025-26, the Government will assist households, including in the regions, with cost-of-living pressures through dozens of measures such as:

  • energy rebates and concessions to families, pensioners, low-income households and other households across the State. This is in addition to the Australian Government’s $150 Energy Bill Relief payment
  • water rebates to eligible pensioners and others experiencing financial hardship, to maintain access to water and wastewater services in the Hunter Valley and Far West
  • providing financial assistance towards travel and accommodation costs when a patient needs to travel long distances for treatment that is not available locally through the Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme
  • the Vocational Training Assistance Scheme travel and accommodation allowance for apprentices or new entrant trainees who have to travel more than 120 km round trip to attend day or block-release training
  • free parking at rural and regional public hospitals
  • free entry to national parks for pension and veteran cardholders.
A family cooking in the kitchen

 

$246.8 million
total Closing the Gap package
 

2. Building for growth in regional New South Wales

Improving health services

High-quality and timely access to healthcare is critical for the health and wellbeing of regional communities.

This Budget brings the total regional health capital investment to $3.5 billion over the next four years, including:

  • continuing the $330.0 million Eurobodalla Regional Hospital Redevelopment
  • $220.0 million to support the future expansion and redevelopment of the Wollongong Hospital and Health Precinct, involving early and enabling works including site investigation, land acquisition and refurbishment works
  • $23.1 million for the Dubbo Alcohol and Other Drug Residential Rehabilitation Centre to provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can develop skills to cope and address the underlying causes of substance use, while maintaining a connection to their community when receiving care
  • $20.2 million for the Forbes Hospital Operating Theatre Redevelopment to build a new contemporary operating theatre and supporting spaces, incorporating integrated and virtual care technology
  • $7.5 million to increase the existing car parking capacity at the new Maitland Hospital.

The 2025-26 Budget also provides new investments to support delivery of health services across the State and in the regions, including:

  • $836.4 million in 2025-26 for the Essential Health Services Package to support core health services and reduce overdue surgeries. It also funds the opening of new and upgraded hospitals including Gunnedah Hospital and the Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program
  • $158.8 million to continue delivering three new regional helicopter bases to improve ambulance response times
  • $83.8 million for a Maternity Care and First 2,000 Days Package that includes measures to grow and upskill the maternity workforce, and increase midwifery continuity of care and parenting support in regional areas
  • $37.5 million to expand the mobile dental van program and other dental services for people in regional communities, First Nations people, disadvantaged children and communities with a high-risk of dental disease
  • $15.4 million in 2025-26 to boost the community mental health workforce, enhance mental health support for young people with severe and complex mental illness and provide regional communities with mental health support
  • $15.0 million in 2025-26 for operational expenses to address increasing costs of rural and regional transportation for the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Strengthening our education system

Every child has the right to a world-class education to ensure they get the best possible start to life. The Government is rebuilding public education to ensure every child across New South Wales has access to high-quality education, regardless of location.

Investment by the NSW Government to address the teacher shortage crisis it inherited includes scrapping the wages cap, delivering a historic pay rise for teachers, reducing excessive administrative workload, making thousands of teachers permanent and valuing the profession.

This has led to schools in regional New South Wales starting the 2025 school year with 47 per cent fewer vacancies than the same time in 2023.

The new 10-year Better and Fairer Schools Agreement injects $10.4 billion of funding to New South Wales public schools over the next 10 years.

In the 2024-25 Budget, the NSW Government invested a record $1.4 billion in rural and regional schools to rebuild public education. In the past 12 months alone, 10 school upgrades have been delivered, while construction has commenced on a further five.

The 2025-26 Budget builds on this progress by investing $2.1 billion over the next four years to deliver new and upgraded schools across regional New South Wales, including:

  • the rebuild of Willyama High School as a brand-new, world-class school
  • a new primary school for the West Dapto area.

In addition to new and upgraded schools, the Government is continuing to deliver on its commitment to boost access to early learning through the delivery of 100 public preschools, with 49 to be built in the regions. Infrastructure tenders and planning approvals have started across all sites, with two due to open in 2025-26 at Hillvue and Taree Public Schools. The 2025-26 Budget funds an additional public preschool co-located within the new primary school at West Dapto.

This Budget also invests $10.0 million in 2025-26 to progress work on expanding the public provision of early childhood education and care in New South Wales.

Two preschool teachers with a plush kangaroo reading to a group of children sitting on the floor.

Building skills

The 2025-26 Budget provides record funding for TAFE NSW, including in the regions, with investment increasing for the third successive year to $2.8 billion in 2025-26. This is critical to growing our skilled workforce.

This Budget includes funding for $480.4 million over four years for asset renewal and critical capital maintenance. This investment is on top of $215.9 million for 1,300 apprentices and trainees in local government, funded in last year’s Budget.

This record funding will support the delivery of high-quality education and training in the regions, and continued work to establish TAFE NSW Manufacturing Centres of Excellence in the Illawarra and Hunter/Newcastle. The Centres of Excellence, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government, will connect industry and education partners to deliver innovative microskills, microcredentials and Higher Apprenticeships.

Two people in a workshop standing next to a car with the bonnet open.

Connecting regional communities through transport and roads

Transport networks and roads are critical to life in regional New South Wales, connecting communities and supporting the movement of goods produced in our regions to national and international markets.

The NSW Government is committed to ensuring that the roads and transport networks used by regional and rural communities daily are reliable and safe so people can travel to work, education and health facilities, visit family and friends, and keep our supply chains moving.

The 2025-26 Budget allocates funding for new projects and continues to deliver existing priorities. This includes the following, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government:

  • $2.8 billion in road safety funding over four years, including for safety trials, intersection upgrades, and new barriers and medians, delivering on commitments in the 2026 Road Safety Action Plan
  • $741.7 million over four years to continue the M1 to Raymond Terrace extension and Hexham Straight widening projects
  • $680.5 million over four years to continue the Princes Highway Corridor Upgrade, including construction of the Milton Ulladulla Bypass, Jervis Bay Road intersection upgrade and Jervis Bay Road to Hawken Road upgrade, and safety and productivity upgrades
  • $548.5 million over four years to continue construction of the Coffs Harbour Bypass
  • $341.8 million over four years for the Wyong Town Centre upgrade
  • $294.9 million over four years to continue construction of the Singleton Bypass
  • $267.1 million over four years to continue major construction of the Mount Ousley Interchange
  • $267.0 million over four years to fast-track the Muswellbrook Bypass
  • $237.7 million over four years to continue delivery of new Dubbo Bridge, heavy duty pavement upgrades, intersection upgrades at Hargraves Lane and Federation Street connecting the Newell Highway, Oxley Highway and Castlereagh Highway
  • $206.0 million over four years to develop and deliver grade separation road interfaces at two selected sites between Parkes and the Victorian border
  • $115.0 million for the Terrigal Drive Upgrade
  • $101.1 million over four years to continue improvements on the Barton Highway for road safety
  • $100.0 million for the Westbound Overpass at the Maitland Roundabout
  • $52.2 million for the Peak Hill Road Upgrade, Tooraweenah Road Upgrade, Central Coast Roads Package, Coreen Avenue and Coombes Drive Upgrades, Kurrajong Road Intersection Upgrade at Beech Road and Lyn Parade, and Coreen Avenue and Lemongrove Road Signals
  • $50.7 million over four years to continue the upgrade of Avoca Drive in Kincumber
  • $19.1 million over four years for the duplication of the Great Western Highway through Medlow Bath
  • $5.7 million for heavy vehicle rest stops to combat driver fatigue (fully funded by the NSW Government)
  • $3.0 million to continue the Regional Network East/West Upgrade Program to support freight movements and improve reliability on the regional rail network (fully funded by the NSW Government).
Aerial view of Glen Innes.
$836.4 million
in 2025-26 for the Essential Health Services Package to support core health services
 
$83.8 million
for a Maternity Care and First 2,000 Days Package
 

Supporting regional economic development

Having repaired the budget and with inflation coming down, our task now is to lay the foundation for future economic growth in regional New South Wales.

This Budget continues investing in transformational infrastructure to support growing populations in the regions, including:

  • $322.5 million over the next four years to enhance digital connectivity, including $48.0 million to deliver improved mobile coverage on identified major highways in New South Wales (including $10.0 million Australian Government funding)
  • $123.6 million for the Growing Regions Program to deliver community and economic infrastructure projects, funded by the Australian Government, to revitalise regions, and enhance amenity and liveability across regional and rural New South Wales
  • $48.3 million for the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, funded by the Australian Government, to deliver precincts that are tailored to local needs and have a shared vision for how the precinct connects to its region
  • $20.9 million to support regional councils to bring forward critical enabling infrastructure for new homes during the National Housing Accord period, by funding interest on loans.
A farm worker inspecting leaves in an orchard.

To support the continued growth and sustainability of key industries, the Budget invests $45.0 million to support farmers and agribusinesses in the adoption of digital technology and on-farm connectivity solutions, to improve resource management, boost productivity and enhance water security.

The Government has also invested in:

  • $50.0 million for the Regional Economic Development and Community Investment Program, supporting initiatives to promote regional economic development and job creation
  • $15.0 million for airstrip improvements in rural and remote New South Wales
  • $10.0 million for the Western NSW Workforce Activation Package, supporting early childhood education in the Far West
  • $5.0 million for the Aboriginal Economic Development Package, supporting First Nations businesses
  • $5.0 million for a low-interest loan program targeting food and beverage manufacturing businesses
  • $2.0 million to extend the Western Air Services Subsidy, enabling commercial flights to Bourke, Walgett, Lightning Ridge and Cobar.

Laying the foundation for regional economic growth

Regional New South Wales is home to a wide range of businesses and industries, supporting jobs, fuelling economic development and presenting investment opportunities.

To support this, the NSW Government is delivering Special Activation Precincts, a series of world-class, sustainable business hubs that build on the competitive and industrial strengths of the regions in which they are located.

The precincts are designed to support strategic partnerships with investors with a focus on long-term success.

The four Special Activation Precincts in development are:

Parkes

This $332.2 million precinct takes advantage of Parkes’ proximity to the Inland Rail Project and Trans-Australia Railway to establish an efficient freight and logistics hub, and to facilitate the establishment of recycling and resource recovery, critical mineral processing, food manufacturing and renewable energy industries.

Moree

This $224.8 million precinct capitalises on the region’s existing agricultural industry, secure water resources and transport access by providing a new business hub specialising in high-value horticulture, agrifood processing, freight logistics and renewable energy.

Wagga Wagga

This $212.2 million precinct capitalises on the Inland Rail Project and existing Bomen Business Park, attracting renewables and recycling industries, advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, innovation and education, and freight and logistics industries.

Snowy Mountains

This $196.3 million precinct will support mixed housing supply and grow the region into an all-year-round tourism destination, focusing on tourism, recreation, commercial and residential businesses, while preserving the important environmental and heritage values of the Snowy.

A construction worker with a hard hat and high-vis shirt walking past a crane.

 

 

$45.0 million
to support farmers and agribusinesses in the adoption of digital technology and on-farm connectivity solutions
 

Transforming our clean energy future

This Budget continues the Government’s investment in the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, transforming our electricity system to provide clean, reliable and affordable energy. The switch to renewable generation is at the core of the transition to net zero emissions, and is critical in supporting economic growth and job creation in the regions.

This Budget includes continued investment of $2.1 billion over the next four years in the Transmission Acceleration Facility, primarily to support the five Renewable Energy Zones at Central-West Orana, New England, Hunter-Central Coast, Illawarra and South West. This builds on $1.1 billion invested to date on these critical projects.

This investment has enabled the finalisation of arrangements for the delivery of the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone transmission project, unlocking $20.0 billion in private investment into the Central-West Orana region by 2030, which will support more than 5,000 construction jobs at its peak.

To support the construction of the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone, the 2025-26 Budget invests an additional $115.5 million to construct a logistics precinct at the Port of Newcastle, to facilitate storage and transportation of critical components. This project is expected to support around 90 construction jobs and 20 full-time positions once operational.

The Government is also committed to ensuring the benefits of Renewable Energy Zones are realised by local communities and is continuing the Community and Benefits Program. $128.0 million has been allocated to the communities which will host the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone, with future funding for other Renewable Energy Zone host communities.

$2.1 billion
continued investment over the next four years in the Transmission Acceleration Facility, primarily to support the five Renewable Energy Zones
 
$128.0 million
has been allocated to the communities which will host the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone
 
$115.5 million
to construct a logistics precinct at the Port of Newcastle
 

3. Regional highlights

3.1 Central Coast

A map of New South Wales highlighting the Central Coast region.
Local Government Area
Central Coast
The Central Coast region had a population of 354,803 in 2024, 351,900 in 2023, and 349,158 in 2022.
  • An additional $864,138 for First Nations-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • new Lisarow Ambulance Station as part of the $615.5 million NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program
  • $200.0 million for the Wyong Hospital Redevelopment Stage 1
  • palliative care ward in Wyong as part of the $93.0 million World Class End of Life Care Program
  • $6.4 million for the Wyong Hospital’s Cancer Day Unit expansion.
  • Upgrades to high schools in Lisarow and Narara Valley as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program.
  • Ongoing work to progress delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at the Tuggerawong and Umina Beach Public Schools.
  • At the start of the 2025 school year, teacher vacancies had reduced by more than 75 per cent in the Central Coast Local Government Area, compared to the peak of the teacher shortage crisis in 2022.
  • $341.8 million over four years to continue the Wyong Town Centre upgrade (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $115.0 million from the Australian Government for the Terrigal Drive upgrade.
  • $50.7 million over four years to continue the upgrade of Avoca Drive in Kincumber (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $50.5 million over four years to continue the Mandalong Road Upgrade (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $47.8 million over four years to continue the Tumbi Road and Central Coast Highway intersection upgrade.
  • $29.0 million over four years to continue planning and design for the Gosford Bypass.
  • $15.0 million from the Australian Government for the Empire Bay Drive Intersection Strategy.
  • $6.0 million to fund the Gosford Waterfront Activation, allowing the community to enjoy the Gosford waterfront in new and improved ways.

 

 

 

$341.8 million
over four years for the Wyong Town Central Upgrade
 
$200.0 million
for the Wyong Hospital Redevelopment Stage 1
 

3.2 Central West and Orana

A map of New South Wales highlighting the Central West and Orana region.
Local Government Areas
Bathurst Regional, Blayney, Bogan, Cabonne, Coonamble, Cowra, Dubbo Regional, Forbes, Gilgandra, Lachlan, Lithgow, Mid-Western Regional, Narromine, Oberon, Orange, Parkes, Warren, Warrumbungle Shire and Weddin
The Central Coast and Orana region had a population of 295,547 in 2024, 293,969 in 2023, and 292,570 in 2022.
  • $23.1 million for the Dubbo Alcohol and Other Drug Residential Rehabilitation Centre.
  • $20.2 million for the Forbes Hospital Operating Theatre Redevelopment for a new contemporary operating theatre.
  • An additional $5.2 million for First Nations-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.
  • Continuing to deliver the $200.0 million Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment and the $110.2 million Cowra Hospital Redevelopment.
  • Upgrades to Canobolas Rural Technology High School in Orange, and high schools in Lithgow and Forbes as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program.
  • Ongoing work to deliver the 100 public preschools commitment, including at Parkes East Public School.
  • $1.8 million for Community Connectors to continue providing support to First Nations high school students in Dubbo and Orange.
  • $237.7 million over four years to continue delivery of new Dubbo Bridge, heavy duty pavement upgrades, intersection upgrades at Hargraves Lane and Federation Street connecting the Newell Highway, Oxley Highway and Castlereagh Highway (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $206.0 million over four years to continue delivering grade separation road interfaces at two sites between Parkes and the Victorian border (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $60.3 million over four years to continue the implementation of safety improvements on Bells Line of Road (Australian Government funded).
  • $19.1 million over four years to continue the Great Western Highway through Medlow Bath (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $5.4 million over four years to reopen Wallerawang Railway Station.
  • $2.0 million to investigate a new train stabling facility at Orange, to extend new rail services from Sydney.
  • $830,000 for the Down The Track Program for young people in Lake Cargelligo and Murrin Bridge.
  • Continuing the $9.4 million new Lithgow Fire Station.
  • Continuing the $40.0 million Resilient Homes Program – Central West, to enable flood tolerance for existing houses.
  • $27.0 million for repair and restoration of water and sewer infrastructure in the Central West, damaged by 2022 severe weather and flooding.
  • Continuing $128.0 million of community and employment benefit grants to deliver infrastructure, housing and community projects with lasting benefits for residents in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone.
  • $9.4 million for the Macquarie Wambuul Water Security Project.
  • $7.8 million for the Belubula Water Security Project.
  • Continuing $332.2 million to transform the Parkes freight and logistics hub.
  • $27.3 million to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority to coordinate new economic opportunities in coal-producing communities.

3.3 Far West

A map of New South Wales highlighting the Far West region.
Local Government Areas
Balranald, Bourke, Brewarrina, Broken Hill, Central Darling, Cobar, Walgett and Wentworth
The Far West region had a population of 43,584 in 2024, 43,650 in 2023, and 43,462 in 2022.
  • An additional $3.5 million for First Nations-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • $30.0 million Wentworth Health Service Redevelopment
  • $12.0 million Broken Hill Hospital Emergency Department Upgrade
  • new Broken Hill Mental Health Unit as part of the $669.8 million Statewide Mental Health Infrastructure Program.
  • Upgrades at Broken Hill High School as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program.
  • Investment to rebuild Willyama High School.
  • Ongoing work to progress delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at the Menindee Central School and Morgan Street Public Schools.
  • $1.8 million for Community Connectors to continue providing support to First Nations high school students in Lightning Ridge and Wilcannia.
  • $5.7 million for heavy vehicle rest stops to combat driver fatigue.
  • $49.2 million in government-owned residential housing in out-of-home care, built or upgraded to deliver safe and stable housing for children 12+ with complex needs, including homes in Hunter, Far West and other regional locations.

Continuing to deliver:

  • $13.3 million for major upgrades to Bourke Police Station
  • $9.8 million for the new Broken Hill Fire Station.
  • Continuing $236.7 million over four years for Broken Hill water and sewerage services, including upgrades to maintain and replace ageing infrastructure.
  • Continuing $24.8 million for the Wilcannia Weir Refurbishment Project, co-funded by the Australian Government, aiming to improve water security, upgrade infrastructure and minimise public health risks.
  • $3.5 million in additional funding for the National Water Grid Nyngan to Cobar Project, co-funded by the Australian Government. This is in addition to the $36.3 million previously funded and aims to replace two pump stations at Nyngan and Hermidale.
  • $2.2 million for the Blue Plaques Program to deliver the Freedom Ride plaque trail and to construct a pavilion in the Freedom Ride Memorial Park, Walgett.
  • $780,000 for Gayini (Nimmie-Caira) project management and construction activities to repair the flood damaged assets at Gayini by floods in September 2022.
  • Continuing the $10.0 million Western NSW Workforce Activation Package to establish, expand or upgrade early childhood education and care across Bourke, Broken Hill and Cobar.
  • $1.0 million over two years additional contribution for the development of the Australia Opal Centre in Lightning Ridge.
  • $6.0 million over two years to support priority asset and infrastructure work to increase the capacity and capability of the Central Darling Shire Council as it exits administration.

3.4 Hunter

A map of New South Wales highlighting the Hunter region.
Local Government Areas
Cessnock, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, MidCoast, Muswellbrook, Port Stephens, Singleton and Upper Hunter Shire
The metropolitan Newcastle Local Government Area is included in population numbers but is not considered part of regional New South Wales.
The Hunter region had a population of 810,491 in 2024, 798,881 in 2023, and 787,159 in 2022.
  • $7.5 million to increase car parking capacity at the new Maitland Hospital.
  • An additional $864,138 for First Nations-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • $835.0 million John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct
  • $180.0 million Lower Mid North Coast Health Service (Manning and Forster- Tuncurry)
  • $138.0 million Cessnock Hospital Redevelopment
  • $45.0 million Muswellbrook Hospital Redevelopment – Stage 3.
  • Upgrades to high schools in Lake Macquarie and Muswellbrook as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program and an upgrade at Thornton Public School.
  • Net Zero Manufacturing Centre of Excellence located at TAFE NSW Tighes Hill in Newcastle, to train the future net zero workforce.
  • Continuing a new primary school and high school in Huntlee, and a new preschool at the primary school.
  • Continuing the 100 public preschools commitment at the Booragul, Cessnock, Ellalong, Gillieston, Kearsley, Kurri Kurri, Maryland, Moorland, Nulkaba, Shortland, Taree, Tenambit, Teralba and Weston Public Schools.

Partnering with the Australian Government to deliver:

  • $741.7 million over four years to continue the M1 to Raymond Terrace extension and Hexham Straight widening projects
  • $294.9 million over four years to continue construction of the Singleton Bypass
  • $267.0 million over four years to fast-track the Muswellbrook Bypass
  • $100.0 million for the Westbound Overpass at the Maitland Roundabout.
  • $49.2 million in government-owned residential housing in out-of-home care, built or upgraded to deliver safe and stable housing for children 12+ with complex needs, including homes in Hunter, Far West and other regional locations.
  • $8.7 million to continue the Singleton Police Station upgrade.
  • $4.6 million to enhance the local community and visitor experience at the Tomaree Lodge site.
  • $530.0 million to design and build the Belmont Desalination Plant. The plant will add up to 30 million litres per day of rainfall independent water supply.
  • $115.5 million to build the Newcastle Logistics Precinct, a critical new hub to support the delivery of more reliable and affordable renewable energy.
  • $82.1 million over four years towards the Hunter Valley Flood Mitigation Scheme Repairs and Rebuilding Project to support flood mitigation activities.
  • $21.5 million over five years to nourish sand on Stockton Beach, protect assets and rehabilitate the coast.
  • $27.3 million to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority to coordinate new economic opportunities in coal-producing communities.

3.5 Illawarra-Shoalhaven

A map of New South Wales highlighting the Illawarra-Shoalhaven region.
Local Government Areas
Kiama, Shellharbour and Shoalhaven
The metropolitan Wollongong Local Government Area is included in population numbers but is not considered part of regional New South Wales.
The Illawarra-Shoalhaven region had a population of 437,436 in 2024, 431,731 in 2023, and 427,342 in 2022.
  • $220.0 million to support the future expansion and redevelopment of the Wollongong Hospital and Health Precinct. The proposed expansion involves early and enabling works including site investigation, land acquisition and refurbishment works.
  • An additional $1.7 million for First Nations-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • $781.9 million New Shellharbour Hospital and Integrated Services and car park
  • $440.4 million Shoalhaven Hospital Redevelopment
  • $28.8 million Waminda Birth Centre and Community Hub
  • $7.5 million Milton Ulladulla Hospital upgrades.
  • A new primary school in West Dapto, including a new preschool.
  • The Illawarra Heavy Industry Manufacturing Centre of Excellence located at the TAFE NSW Wollongong campus, which will provide training and education for the future heavy-industry manufacturing workforce. Detailed planning is underway, with the centre set to open for delivery in late 2027.
  • Ongoing work to progress delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at Barrack Heights, Bomaderry, Greenwell Point, Lake Illawarra South and Sanctuary Point Public Schools, and alongside the new primary school in Nowra.
  • As at the start of the 2025 school year, teacher vacancies had reduced by an average of 71 per cent across the Illawarra-Shoalhaven Local Government Areas, compared to the peak of the teacher shortage crisis in 2022.

Continuing to deliver:

  • a new primary school at Calderwood, including a new preschool
  • Ulladulla High School upgrade
  • Ulladulla Public School upgrade
  • Milton Public School upgrade
  • Bomadery High School upgrade
  • Vincentia High School upgrade.
  • $680.5 million over four years to continue the Princes Highway Corridor Upgrade, including construction of the Milton Ulladulla Bypass, Jervis Bay Road intersection upgrade and Jervis Bay Road to Hawken Road upgrade, and safety and productivity upgrades (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $267.1 million over four years to continue major construction of the Mount Ousley Interchange (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $20.0 million additional funding towards the delivery of new south-facing ramps on the Princes Motorway at Dapto (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $1.5 million for coastal waterway improvements on the South Coast.
  • $27.3 million to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority to coordinate new economic opportunities in coal-producing communities.
  • Continuing the $35.0 million investment into 60 build-to-rent apartments in Bomaderry delivered by Landcom.

3.6 New England and North West

A map of New South Wales highlighting the New England and North West region.
Local Government Areas
Armidale Regional, Glen Innes Severn, Gunnedah, Gwydir, Inverell, Liverpool Plains, Moree Plains, Narrabri, Tamworth Regional, Tenterfield, Uralla and Walcha
The New England and North West region had a population of 190,346 in 2024, 189,362 in 2023, and 187,975 in 2022.
  • An additional $2.6 million for First Nations-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • $105.0 million Moree Hospital Redevelopment
  • $50.0 million Glen Innes Hospital upgrade.
  • Upgrades at Tamworth High School as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program.
  • Ongoing work to progress delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at Toomelah, Hillvue and Warialda Public Schools.
  • Continuing works on local upgrades at the following schools:
    • Armidale City Public School
    • Woolomin Public School
    • Tamworth High School
    • Niangala Public School
    • Rocky River Public School.
  • $1.8 million for Community Connectors to continue providing support to First Nations high school students in Armidale and Tamworth.
  • As at the start of the 2025 school year, teacher vacancies had reduced by an average of 52.1 per cent across the New England and North West Local Government Areas, compared to the peak of the teacher shortage crisis in 2022.

Partnering with the Australian Government to deliver:

  • $54.4 million over four years to continue planning for the New England Highway duplication (Goonoo Goonoo Road)
  • $31.0 million over four years to continue the Newell Highway Heavy Duty Pavement Program to deliver over 20 kilometres of new pavement, intersection improvements, widening of road shoulders and the provision of five additional overtaking lanes between Narrabri and Moree.
  • $1.3 million to continue the Keep on Track Program for a further two years in Moree, Narrabri, Armidale and Tamworth.
  • Continuing $58.2 million in partnership with the Australian Government for the Northern Basin Toolkit to improve the ecological health of Northern Basin rivers through environmental infrastructure.
  • $3.0 million in 2025-26 for the Tamworth Advanced Water Treatment Plant to investigate treatment and use of recycled wastewater by reducing demand on potable community water supplies.
  • Continuing the $224.8 million Moree Special Activation Precinct to support Moree becoming a thriving business hub, with sustainable water endowments and new technologies to support diversifying its strong agricultural economy.
  • $27.3 million to establish the Future Jobs and Investment Authority to coordinate new economic opportunities in coal-producing communities.

3.7 North Coast

A map of New South Wales highlighting the North Coast region.
Local Government Areas
Ballina, Bellingen, Byron, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Kyogle, Lismore, Nambucca Valley, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Richmond Valley and Tweed
The North Coast region had a population of 556,913 in 2024, 551,289 in 2023, and 546,490 in 2022.
  • An additional $3.5 million First Nations community-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • $265.0 million Port Macquarie Hospital Upgrade
  • $263.8 million Grafton Base Hospital Redevelopment
  • $13.0 million betterment of Lismore Ambulance Station
  • $3.4 million betterment of Mullumbimby Ambulance Station
  • Upgrades at Casino High School as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program.
  • Ongoing delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at Bowraville Central School, and Lennox Head, Tacking Point and Wollongbar Public Schools.
  • Continuing the Lennox Head Public School relocation.
  • As at the start of the 2025 school year, teacher vacancies had reduced by an average of 72.9 per cent across the North Coast Local Government Areas, compared to the peak of the teacher shortage crisis in 2022.
  • $548.5 million over four years to continue construction of the Coffs Harbour Bypass (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $36.5 million over four years to continue work on the Pacific Highway Harrington Road Intersection Upgrade (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $23.3 million over four years to continue improving safety, reliability and travel times on Waterfall Way.
  • $3.9 million additional funding to upgrade the Bruxner Highway and Alphadale Road intersection, bringing total commitment to $11.4 million.
  • $7.0 million for the new Goonellabah Fire Station, and to continue works to deliver an $8.2 million new Byron Bay Fire Station on an alternative site.
  • $1.8 million in 2025-26 for the Lismore Courthouse Resilience Improvement Project.
  • $359.2 million over four years to complete the Resilient Homes Program – Northern Rivers to enable flood tolerance for existing houses.
  • $63.2 million over four years to complete the Resilient Lands Program to help relocate Northern Rivers residents impacted by the 2022 floods.
  • $12.5 million in additional funding from the Australian Government for a water treatment plant, and storage, pumping and distribution infrastructure at Steuart McIntyre Dam for Kempsey.
  • $2.5 million to investigate options to improve water security for towns in the Far North Coast region.
  • Measures to prevent the spread of fire ants from South East Queensland.
  • Continuing to deliver the $30.0 million investment into 50 build-to-rent apartments in East Lismore delivered by Landcom.

3.8 Riverina Murray

A map of New South Wales highlighting the Riverina Murray region.
Local Government Areas
Albury, Berrigan, Bland, Carrathool, Coolamon, Cootamundra Gundagai, Edward River, Federation, Greater Hume, Griffith, Hay, Junee, Leeton, Lockhart, Murray River, Murrumbidgee, Narrandera, Snowy Valleys, Temora and Wagga Wagga
The Riverina Murray region had a population of 288,716 in 2024, 286,755 in 2023, and 284,788 in 2022.
  • An additional $1.7 million for First Nations-led culturally responsive suicide prevention initiatives.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • $558.0 million Albury–Wodonga Regional Hospital, including a $20.0 million contribution from the Australian Government
  • $250.0 million Griffith Hospital Redevelopment
  • $95.0 million Temora Hospital Redevelopment
  • $25.0 million Finley Hospital Upgrade
  • $1.0 million planning for Wagga Wagga Health and Knowledge Precinct.
  • Upgrades at Kooringal High School in Wagga Wagga as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program.
  • Progressing the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at Beelbangara, Deniliquin South, Hanwood, Leeton and Parkview Public Schools, and alongside the new primary school in Albury Thurgoona.
  • Continuing to deliver the Albury Thurgoona new primary school, upgrades at Parkview Public School and new halls for high schools in Griffith.
  • At the start of the 2025 school year, teacher vacancies had reduced by an average of 32.5 per cent across the Riverina Murray Local Government Areas, compared to the peak of the teacher shortage crisis in 2022.
  • $206.0 million over four years to continue delivering the Tichborne and Harris Gates Grade Separation Road Interface to enable grade separations on the Inland Rail alignment south of Parkes (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $30.0 million for the Wagga Wagga Freight Rail Bypass planning (Australian Government funded).
  • $23.1 million over four years to continue widening the Marshalls Creek Bridge and reduce congestion in Wagga Wagga.
  • $4.2 million in total funding to continue piloting new diversionary programs, including the Cockatoo Initiative in the Riverina area for a further two years.
  • Continuation of the $8.0 million new Moama Police Station project.
  • $319.1 million for the Sustainable Diversion Limit Adjustment Mechanism Program to improve river health and increase the amount of water returned to the environment.
  • $255.6 million for the Murray and Murrumbidgee River Constraints Program to increase connections to the Murrumbidgee and Murray River systems.
  • $63.5 million for the Resilient Rivers Water Infrastructure Program to modernise water infrastructure across the Leeton and Griffith Shire Regions.
  • Continuing the $212.2 million Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct to be a sustainable hub of high-value agricultural and food manufacturing.
  • $17.5 million over two years for projects with the Australian Government, including the Albury Entertainment Centre, expansion of Albury Airport and the Oddies Creek Splash Park.
  • $12.7 million over five years to invest in the Upper Murrumbidgee catchment to deliver a landscape scale program.

3.9 South East and Tablelands

A map of New South Wales highlighting the South East and Tablelands region.
Local Government Areas
Bega Valley, Eurobodalla, Goulburn Mulwaree, Hilltops, Queanbeyan Palerang, Snowy Monaro Regional, Upper Lachlan Shire, Wingecarribee and Yass Valley
The South East and Tableands region had a population of 299,368 in 2024, 295,922 in 2023, and 293,186 in 2022.

Continuing to deliver the:

  • $330.0 million Eurobodalla Regional Hospital Redevelopment
  • $165.0 million Goulburn Hospital Redevelopment
  • $40.0 million Bombala Multipurpose Service
  • $26.6 million Cooma Hospital Redevelopment
  • $20.0 million Batemans Bay Community Health Centre
  • $1.8 million Women’s and Family Maternity Care Centre at Yass.
  • Upgrades to specialist facilities at high schools in Batemans Bay, Bowral and Moruya as part of the High Potential and Gifted Education School Partner Program.
  • Continuing to deliver the Googong Public School Upgrade Stage 2, the Jerrabomberra High School Upgrade Stage 2 and the new Bungendore High School.
  • Ongoing work to progress delivery of the Government’s 100 public preschools commitment, including at Boorowa Central School, Jindabyne, Moss Vale, Queanbeyan East and Queanbeyan South Public Schools.
  • $885,000 for Community Connectors to continue providing support to First Nations high school students in Bega.
  • $101.1 million over four years to continue improvements on the Barton Highway for road safety (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $21.2 million over four years to continue for pavement surface upgrades on the Hume Highway at Marulan.
  • $14.7 million additional funding to upgrade the intersection of Yass Road, Bungendore Road and Ellerton Drive in Queanbeyan East, bringing the total commitment to $33.7 million.
  • $10.0 million for planning and early investigations into transport network improvements in and around Narooma, including Narooma Bridge (NSW and Australian Government funded).
  • $1.5 million additional funding to upgrade Cuttagee Bridge, bringing the total commitment to $15.0 million.

Continue to deliver:

  • $25.0 million for major upgrades to the Goulburn Police Station
  • $23.4 million for major upgrades to the Bega Police Station, including a new forensic facility
  • $2.0 million Moss Vale Fire Station upgrade.
  • $18.1 million in additional funding from the Australian Government for the Yass Water Security Treatment Plant to upgrade treatment processes and electrical and control systems to enhance compliance with Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Continue to deliver:

  • $196.3 million in the Snowy Mountains region for essential infrastructure to support housing and all-year-round tourism, benefiting the community
  • $5.3 million to expand the Gaden Trout Hatchery to build resilience into fish populations within the Upper Murrumbidgee catchment.

Image credits:

Austockphoto; Copyright State of New South Wales (Transport for NSW); Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water / Kyle Manning / Mike Terry; Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development; Fire and Rescue NSW; Marley Morgan; NSW Health; Parkes Shire Council; Renee Nowytarger; TAFE NSW.

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