How NSW Plans To Spend $156m

The NSW Government has unveiled a major investment to fast-track critical road upgrades in North West Sydney, allocating $156 million in the 2025-26 State Budget. This initiative, supported jointly by the NSW and Australian Governments, aims to prepare essential infrastructure projects in some of the fastest-growing suburbs, including Blacktown, Rooty Hill, Marsden Park, Schofields, and Rouse Hill.

Major Funding Allocation

The $156 million funding package will accelerate planning and design to ensure projects are shovel-ready, ultimately easing congestion and improving travel times for residents. North West Sydney continues to see rapid growth, with approximately 250,000 residents expected to live in the area upon full development. New housing, schools, and hospitals are placing unprecedented demand on the road network.

Key Projects Detailed

Richmond Road Corridor

An additional $49 million has been allocated for planning upgrades and future duplication along the Richmond Road Corridor, spanning from the M7 to The Driftway in Richmond. This brings the total investment for this busy arterial road to $74 million.

Townson and Burdekin Roads, Schofields

A joint contribution of $30 million will support planning for the duplication and future connection of Townson and Burdekin Roads, preparing for increased traffic from expanding residential developments.

Garfield Road West, Marsden Park

Another $27 million is designated for planning the upgrade of Garfield Road West. This complements existing NSW Government investments already committed to widen Garfield Road East, aiming to improve east-west connectivity.

Toongabbie Bridge Upgrade

The Australian Government has committed $25 million for enabling works to upgrade Toongabbie Bridge, addressing a known congestion point for commuters in Western Sydney.

Rouse Hill Hospital Precinct

A combined $20 million allocation ($10 million each from the NSW and Australian Governments) will fund planning for critical road infrastructure around the future Rouse Hill Hospital. Planned works include widening Windsor Road to accommodate three lanes plus a dedicated bus lane in each direction, intersection upgrades, a new shared path for pedestrians and cyclists, and upgraded bus facilities.

Rooty Hill Rail Overpass

A fully NSW Government-funded $3.5 million will go towards planning a new Francis Road rail overpass at Rooty Hill, improving east-west connectivity and easing traffic congestion around the rail line.

Blacktown Intersection Upgrade

The budget also includes $1.5 million for planning an intersection upgrade at Flushcombe and Bungarribee Roads in Blacktown, targeting one of the area's major congestion points.

Growth Demands Immediate Action

North West Sydney is experiencing one of the highest rates of population growth in Australia, requiring urgent infrastructure investment to match the increase in residential and commercial development. The new funding will allow projects to progress to construction more rapidly, ensuring that transportation networks can keep pace with the growing demand.

Broader Budget Focus

This funding package forms part of a broader infrastructure agenda under the 2025-26 NSW State Budget, prioritizing suburban and regional projects that deliver practical, immediate benefits to communities. The aim is to focus on essential infrastructure that supports liveability, economic activity, and regional growth, rather than large-scale "mega-projects".