Recent Advocacy

LRTC has made a submission to the NSW Freight Policy Reform Program in response to the release of an ‘Interim Directions’ paper.

The paper indicates an intention to reduce the availability of regional rail freight, notably for grain. Our 12 page illustrated submission starts with:

‘Taking the perspective of regional people, we encourage a participative approach which would thoroughly investigate the viability of branch lines, without prejudice, and account for concerns about road conditions and the safety of all road users.’

The submission is available here.

The advocacy work of the Lachlan Regional Transport Committee – What’s to be done?

Michelle Cook and Assoc Prof Ian Gray

The Lachlan Regional Transport Committee (LRTC) was established in the 1980s to advocate for better transport in regional New South Wales. Communicating with Government, LRTC pointed to problems which had arisen after public transport services had been radically reduced and changed. LRTC has also advocated for a freight system which is attuned to local needs. In the 21st century, we enjoy a much-improved public transport system. Our rail freight system is working but it is far from perfect and could be made better. Our roads are used heavily and have deteriorated badly.

Many issues are emerging in 2024. There are dark clouds over the regional rail freight system as the State Government is conducting a review which, among other plans, is threatening the future of branch lines. New trains should soon enter service bringing new timetables with likely consequences for the entire train and coach system.

Country people need access to Sydney for many services and facilities including ports for exports as well as health services and recreation. Sydney people also travel to the regions, and a recent surge in regional population growth suggests that many more people may settle permanently in the regions. LRTC can continue to communicate with government and industry to express local and regional perspectives on the transport issues which confront us.

Some issues which we can explore include 

·         The future of branch lines

·         Important infrastructure including the Blayney-Demondrille and Maldon-Dombarton railways

·         Public transport in light of the forthcoming replacement of XPT and Explorer trains

·         Issues surrounding the widely-acknowledged deterioration in local roads in recent years

·         The standard of bus services, especially among highly car-dependent communities

·         The efficiency and reliability of rail freight services

·         The implications of the Melbourne-Brisbane Inland Rail development for local industries and communities

Infrastructure project: the Blayney-Demondrille (‘Cowra Lines’) railway

The Cowra lines formed an important link between the main western and southern railways and served a rich primary production region. It has been out of use since 2009. LRTC has consistently advocated for the line’s reinstatement and assisted with several studies with often positive results. Go to our Blayney-Demondrille page for more information.

Infrastructure project: the Maldon-Dombarton railway

The Maldon-Dombarton railway line could provide an important link between Port Kembla and the southern suburbs of Sydney, the Southern Highlands and southern and western NSW. Its potential was recognised and construction started but never completed. LRTC has advocated for its completion. For more information, go to our Maldon-Dombarton page.