Western Sydney councils have welcomed the announcement that a full-length north-south rail link — connecting St Marys to Tallawong and with rail connections from Bradfield to Leppington and Macarthur — has been placed on Infrastructure Australia’s 2026 Infrastructure Priority List.

The Infrastructure Priority List is Infrastructure Australia’s independent, evidence-based advice to the Australian Government on the highest-priority proposals to be considered for investment over the next 10 years.

Western Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (WSROC) President, Clr Brad Bunting said:

“We welcome the inclusion of the north–south rail connection on the Infrastructure Australia 2026 Infrastructure Priority List as a significant step toward delivering the transport connections Western Sydney desperately needs.

“A north–south rail link is vital to connect the north-west, west and south-west of Sydney and to support the long-term growth of the region.

“The listing by Infrastructure Australia on its priority list highlights the national importance of Western Sydney as a centre of population growth, economic activity and infrastructure investment.

“Western Sydney is home to some of the fastest-growing communities in the country, and hosts Australia’s third-largest economy in terms of Gross Regional Product.

“Strong north–south rail connections are essential to link people with jobs, education and services across this booming region.

“The proposed north–south rail corridor will also play a critical role in supporting the success of the new Western Sydney International Airport and ensuring that communities across Western Sydney can access the economic opportunities emerging around the airport.

“The airport – due to open this year – will transform Western Sydney’s economy, but its success depends on having a well-connected public transport network.

“WSROC has long advocated for an integrated transport network to support Western Sydney’s growth, including strong rail connections that link major centres and employment precincts across the region.

“This recognition from Infrastructure Australia is welcome and reinforces the importance of continuing to plan and deliver the broader North–South rail spine.

“But it must now be matched with continued commitment from both the Australian and NSW Governments to plan, fund and deliver the full North–South rail network.

Infrastructure Australia’s inclusion of the north-south rail link in the 2026 Infrastructure Priority List is in line with WSROC’s board-approved policy positions on the Airport and Transport.