The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) has welcomed the New South Wales Government’s release of the Hunter Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP).
It is reported to mark a major win for industry advocacy and long-term freight planning in regional New South Wales.
The final plan incorporates eight of the ALC’s key recommendations, underscoring the Hunter’s critical role in Australia’s national supply chain network. These include commitments to rail upgrades, alternative fuel infrastructure, proactive maintenance and closer integration between freight, passenger and regional planning.
“The Hunter SRITP demonstrates the value of collaboration between government and industry,” said ALC CEO, Dr Hermione Parsons.
“We’re pleased to see so many of our priorities reflected—especially those that boost connectivity, resilience and sustainability across the freight network.”
Among the highlights are commitments to improve rail capacity, support for the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor and planning for future projects linking the Central West to the Port of Newcastle. The plan also recognises the growing need for hydrogen refuelling and heavy EV charging infrastructure along key freight corridors.
While the outcomes are a strong step forward, ALC continues to push for clearer investment timeframes, defined accountability mechanisms and stronger resilience measures to ensure the plan delivers lasting benefits.
“Embedding these elements into implementation will help secure the Hunter’s position as a national logistics hub for decades to come,” said Dr Parsons.
In other news, Australia Post reported postal workers were injured by a third party on the road at least five times a week in the last financial year.
