The Albanese Government is planning for Wagga Wagga's future, investing $30 million to plan for a potential rail bypass of the city.
The Wagga Wagga Freight Bypass - Planning project will identify opportunities to enhance freight movement, productivity and the resilience of the rail network in the region.
The current Inland Rail route, as designed under the former Coalition Government, will travel through the centre of Wagga.
Consistent with the Independent Review of Inland Rail, Inland Rail Pty Ltd is ensuring appropriate modifications to limit noise and enable adequate cross-town access. The independent review also recommended planning for an alternative route once Inland Rail has been operational for some years.
We have heard the community feedback about potential disruptions Inland Rail could cause for Wagga, and we understand the importance of starting this work now. This will ensure that if those concerns are realised once Inland Rail is operational, a bypass could be delivered sooner.
The planning works are expected to begin in 2025 and be completed by mid-2030.
As at the 2024-25 MYEFO, the Government's total commitment to NSW under the Infrastructure Investment Program over the next 10 years is $21 billion.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:
"We're investing in this critical first step towards a freight rail bypass that will build Wagga Wagga's future.
"We've listened to the concerns of the local community here in Wagga Wagga, which is more than I can say for the Coalition Government who signed off on these designs in the first place."
Quotes attributable to Senator for NSW Deborah O'Neill:
"Wagga Wagga is a powerhouse of agriculture and innovation, and a freight bypass could capitalise on its location and connection to national and interstate transport links.
"This project will look at how we can make Wagga safer, and provide it with a better, more efficient freight route - supporting freight operators and businesses in the region."
