William Scott
The Federal Government is investing $30 million to identify opportunities to enhance freight movement, productivity and the resilience of the current Inland Rail network in Wagga Wagga.
The Wagga Wagga Freight Bypass – Planning project will plan for a potential rail bypass of the city – with the current Inland Rail route set to 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.
The Federal Government said it has heard the community feedback about potential disruptions Inland Rail could cause for Wagga, and it understands 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 Federal Government’s total commitment to New South Wales under the Infrastructure Investment Program over the next ten years is $21 billion.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, said, “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.”
Senator for New South Wales, Deborah O’Neill, said 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.”
