A representative from the Leppington Progress Association is advocating for essential infrastructure improvements in Western Sydney. This community group is urging collaboration between the federal government, state authorities, and local councils to establish a comprehensive 10-year development plan.
Prue Car, the Minister for Western Sydney, stated that the New South Wales government is making unprecedented investments to address existing infrastructure gaps. However, local resident Cynthia Meta expressed frustration over the inadequate infrastructure in the south-west region of the city, highlighting issues such as overcrowding at the local hospital and the urgent need for improved roadways.
Meta, a mother from the area, remarked that her community feels neglected in comparison to other regions. She pointed out that many parts of her local government area still lack access to wastewater connections, complicating the housing crisis further. She noted, “We are in the midst of a housing crisis—there are numerous potential sites for development, but without adequate water and wastewater services, developers cannot proceed.”
She shared correspondence from her local member of parliament indicating that wastewater services might not be available in her area until as late as 2028 or 2032. Meta believes it is the state government’s responsibility to secure federal funding if they lack the necessary resources to resolve these issues.
As a long-time resident and representative of the Leppington Progress Association, which has been advocating for infrastructure enhancements for over ten years, she emphasized the dire need for upgrades on Rickard Road, a vital link between Leppington Station and the new town center. This road frequently experiences severe traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours.
With a new high school being built and a primary school undergoing renovations on Rickard Road, Meta highlighted the unsafe conditions children face, as they walk to school on unpaved roads lacking proper footpaths. “Young children have to navigate these country roads that haven’t been improved in ages,” she stated.
In response to inquiries regarding Rickard Road, Camden Council’s general manager, Andrew Carfield, confirmed that while funding exists for road design, the actual funding for necessary upgrades has yet to be secured. He mentioned that once available, the funding would facilitate the construction of a completely new roadway, complete with footpaths, to accommodate the community’s growth.
As the decade-long federal initiative funding road projects in Western Sydney comes to a close, local advocates are emphasizing the importance of continuing infrastructure investment. Successful projects, including the M12 Motorway and the Northern Road upgrade, were part of this initiative, which is set to conclude this year. The upcoming opening of the M7-M12 interchange will further enhance the regional transport network by linking the new Nancy Bird Walton Airport with Western Sydney.
However, local leaders assert that this is not the time for the government to reduce its efforts. The Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue has urged the federal government to re-engage with state and local authorities to formulate a new 10-year infrastructure plan that encompasses more than just road construction. Adam Leto, the dialogue’s chief executive, stated, “We would like to see the federal government take the lead once more.”
Carfield concurred, advocating for a long-term strategy that could streamline infrastructure investments and planning processes. He noted that Western Sydney is expected to grow by 1.3 million residents by 2041, necessitating significant advancements in infrastructure to accommodate this increase.
Prue Car, the NSW Deputy Premier, acknowledged the challenges in addressing the infrastructure deficit but emphasized that the government is committing substantial resources to mitigate the issue. “The Minns Labor Government is making historic investments in schools, roads, and hospitals that were long overdue under the previous administration,” she stated. Car affirmed that the state government would collaborate with the federal government to secure funding for crucial local projects.
A spokesperson for the federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King, confirmed that they will continue to work alongside the NSW government to plan and finance the necessary infrastructure for Western Sydney. “The Australian Government is committing nearly $18 billion towards road, rail, and airport infrastructure to enhance connectivity for both residents and visitors, showcasing the unique attributes of Western Sydney,” the spokesperson added.
