Federal Budget 2022: $500m for high-speed rail link between Sydney and Newcastle

As part of a billion-dollar infrastructure plan to make long journeys quicker and safer for Australians, a high-speed rail link along the NSW coastline is getting a funding boost.

An artist impression shows 3D renderings of the proposed high speed rail system connecting Sydney with Wollongong, Canberra and Newcastle. Picture: Supplied

This month’s budget will give NSW a $1bn infrastructure spending boost headed by $500m towards the Sydney, Central Coast and Newcastle high-speed rail link.

It will also include $300m on roads for Western Sydney and $50m for planning and preparatory works for the Castle­reagh Connection ­between Kurrajong Heights and Colebee.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said sound and planned infrastructure investment created jobs, built opportunity and unlocked economic growth and productivity.

“It’s about making journeys quicker, but also making sure Australians can get home to their families safely,” Mr Albanese said.

“Through our first budget, my team is getting on with the job of ­delivering projects in consultation with Infrastructure Australia and all levels of government to make a real ­difference to the lives of ­Australians.”

Commuters arrive at Gosford Railway Station. Picture: AAP IMAGE / Troy Snook

October’s economic statement will also include $37m for Richmond Rd planning and $75m for planning and early works on Bandon Rd in the North West Growth Corridor.

The government has ­already introduced legislation to create a High Speed Rail Authority and the new money will go to land acquisition, planning and early works.

Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said recent months had been a reminder of the need to deliver infrastructure planning and ­invest­ment that took into ­account extreme weather events.

“The NSW government’s projections show the population of the Central Coast and the Hunter Valley growing by 200,000 by 2040, making better transport connections a necessity,” Ms King said.

“Our government has a ­vision of a brighter future for our regions, with fast rail connections offering people more choice of where to live and work.”