Transport Roundtable Meeting to Discuss the Future of the Golden Highway

Government and industry leaders will come together at a roundtable meeting hosted by Regional Development Australia (RDA) Orana and Hunter regions in Dubbo on Wednesday 30 October to discuss the future of the Golden Highway.

NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads the Hon Jenny Aitchison MP and industry leaders including Port of Newcastle, Energy Co, Transport for NSW, local MPs and local government representatives will converge to discuss the recently completed Orana Hunter Connections and Beyond Golden Highway Transport Study Business Cases.

The Golden Highway serves as the backbone of our region’s economy supporting more than 2.5 million tonnes of freight in the corridor, travelling by road and rail. 

This volume is expected to reach an estimated 6.3 million tonnes over the next decade due to the expansion in renewable energy and mining sectors.

These changes require a plan of infrastructure improvements that will minimise impacts on local communities while keeping freight moving safely and efficiently between the Orana and Hunter regions and the Port of Newcastle.

RDA Orana, with The Stable Group, developed the Road and Rail business cases with funding from the Regional NSW - Business Case Strategy Development Fund to complete the independent studies on the drivers of freight demand for road and rail transport solutions between the Orana and Newcastle.

The Orana-Hunter community stands on the brink of transformation, with Newcastle and Dubbo emerging as pivotal hubs for education, tourism and trade.

RDA Orana CEO, Justine Campbell said:

“The business cases have been developed to improve freight transportation through the Golden Highway. They are not just about road and rail improvements. 

“The Freight business case aims to improve safety outcomes, reduce vehicle travel time and support the oversized needs of critical sectors like renewable energy, agriculture and manufacturing.

“Proposed upgrades include bridge replacement, bridge widening, new overtaking lanes, and upgrades to railway crossings and intersections. The economic, social and environmental impacts present a strong case for improvement.

“Investing in the Golden Highway is not just an investment in asphalt and concrete, it’s an investment in the safety, economic growth and sustainability of our region. It’s an opportunity to leave a legacy of progress, resilience and community trust for generations to come.”

RDA Hunter CEO, Trevor John said: 

“The business cases confirm the value of improving the Golden Highway road and rail connections between our regions so we can maximise our shared competitive advantages and seize the once-in-a-lifetime development opportunities for the benefit of our communities.

“The Rail business case aims to enhance the competitiveness of Australian exports, reduce environmental impacts through decreased road freight, and improve safety by reducing traffic accidents and fatalities.

“The expected growth in mining inputs is estimated to grow in the vicinity of 2.1 million tonnes per annum or a 1600% increase by 2033. By 2033 mining inputs are likely to account for nearly 40% of all volumes being transported.

“Without coordinated investment into rail infrastructure, there is a high risk that much of this additional mining-related freight will be incentivised to travel by road.

“If freight is deterred from travel by rail, this poses a significant safety concern and may add over 110,000 truck movements each year.”