Roads boost in NSW Budget

The latest New South Wales Budget has set aside a $38 billion boost for the state's road and transport sectors, as part of a wider $68.6 billion allocation for general infrastructure.

Unveiled recently by the state's Treasurer, Gladys Berejiklian, the Baird Coalition Government says the program of improvements will see $1.7 billion go towards WestConnex, $1.4 billion to continue the on-going duplication of the Pacific Highway (pictured) between Hexham and the Queensland border, and $51 million in additional funding for the NorthConnex project, among others.

The peak representative body for the state's road freight industry, ATANSW, has welcomed the funding, with ATANSW General Manager Jodie Broadbent saying the upgrades would aid both road safety and freight efficiency.

"The NSW freight task is predicted to double by 2031," she said in a media release.

"It's essential that our roads and infrastructure are able to keep pace with this growth.

"We are delighted to see the Government prioritising funding for major freight routes, including $1.9 billion to continue fast-tracking major upgrades of key regional routes such as the Pacific, Princes, Great Western, Newell, New England and Oxley highways.

"Improving these routes provides economic and safety benefits to our regional communities, road users and the trucking industry.

"I congratulate [Roads] Minister Duncan Gay and his team on prioritising funding for these key freight routes, and look forward to seeing these projects continue to develop."