NatRoad CEO Warren Clark has welcomed multiple aspects of the Interim Directions Paper of the NSW Freight Reform Program but believes some of the measures do not go far enough to deliver a better freight network in the state.
The Paper, which was originally published in September 2024 and has since received updates, covers major sections of industry-wide framework and network issues, and covers road, rail and maritime freight.
The Freight Reform Program works to identify short, medium and long-term actions to optimise the state’s multi-modal freight operations for metropolitan and regional areas, and is developed in collaboration between the NSW government, industry and the federal government.
Clark says the Paper’s intention to improve road standards is a positive step forward for government.
“Roads are often a thorny issue for government,” he says. “The proposal to implement service level standards on our road network would be a strong step towards better roads. The standards would shine a light on parts of the road network which fall short on road quality, safety and rest areas.
“Standards must be backed, with governments prioritising funding to fixing gaps in the network.
“The recognition of the need to commence planning and delivery of key infrastructure barriers to heavy vehicle access is welcome. This includes the need for rest areas, replacing restricted bridges … and critical upgrades in Sydney.
“Taken together, these proposed reforms represent an opportunity to deliver a better road network and support the lifeblood of our community and our economy – the road network.”
However, despite the positive movement towards a better road network made in the paper, Clark has issued a call for a stronger stance on the state’s ongoing toll reform efforts, and on road safety.
“Parts of the proposed reform program should go further to deliver a better road network,” Clark continues.
“Right now, while the current rate of road crashes is increasing, governments must address the worsening road safety situation.
“We need clear, fundamental change to put road safety strategies across all governments, agencies and regulators back on track.
“The reform paper also falls short on the need to fix toll roads including the impact of tolls on small businesses and the fundamental need to reduce the truck toll multiplier.
“We also need reforms to introduce variable lower truck tolls for off-peak journeys and discounts for multiple trips.
“For the sake of keeping Australia moving, government must get these reforms right.”
To view the full Interim Directions Paper of the NSW Freight Reform Program, click here.
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