Liverpool Mayor Ned Mannoun has welcomed elements of the NSW Budget that provide cost of living relief, while calling on both the State and Federal Governments to commit to the major infrastructure needed to support Southwest Sydney’s rapid growth.
Mayor Mannoun said measures including the reduction in the weekly toll cap, a freeze on public transport fares and the vehicle registration cut would offer some immediate relief to local families.
“Southwest Sydney is home to some of the longest commuters in the country, and many households rely heavily on their cars just to get to work, education and essential services,” Mayor Mannoun said.
“Any relief is welcome, but these measures address short term pressures without fixing the underlying issue, which is a lack of accessible, reliable public transport.”
Mayor Mannoun said the budget fell short in delivering the new Metro and rail infrastructure needed to transform connectivity across the region.
“The long-term solution is clear. We need a serious commitment to extending Metro and rail across Southwest Sydney so people can get to jobs and services faster and more affordably,” he said.
“Without that investment, our communities will continue to face long travel times, congestion and limited access to opportunity.”
Mayor Mannoun also noted that while infrastructure spending was highlighted in the budget, much of it reflects previously announced projects rather than new investment targeted to Southwest Sydney.
“Our region is one of the fastest growing in the state, yet we are still waiting for the infrastructure to catch up,” he said.
“This is not just about transport. It is about unlocking housing, supporting local jobs and ensuring our communities have the services they need.”
Mayor Mannoun said Liverpool City Council would continue to advocate strongly for coordinated investment from both levels of government.
“We are ready to work in partnership with the NSW and Australian Governments on the next wave of Metro and rail investment across Southwest Sydney,” he said.
“Our residents deserve the same level of access, connectivity and opportunity as the rest of Sydney.”
Background
Transport
The budget includes cost of living relief measures such as the toll cap reduction and public transport fare freeze, but does not commit to major new Metro or rail projects in Southwest Sydney. Long standing issues including congestion and poor connectivity remain unresolved.
Housing
The budget does not provide new enabling infrastructure to unlock housing supply in Southwest Sydney. Continued population growth without matching investment risks worsening affordability and placing pressure on existing communities.
Mental health
Funding for mental health services does not match the scale of demand in fast growing regions. Services across Southwest Sydney are already under pressure and require greater targeted investment.
Cost of living
Measures including the toll cap reduction, fare freeze and registration cut provide short term relief for households. However, they do not address the structural disadvantage faced by communities with long commutes and limited transport options.
Small business and jobs
There is limited targeted support for small and family businesses in Southwest Sydney. Without stronger investment in local employment opportunities, many residents will continue to travel long distances for work.
Infrastructure investment
Much of the infrastructure funding in the budget reflects previously announced projects rather than new commitments. Southwest Sydney requires a clearer pipeline of new investment to keep pace with growth.
Roads and local connectivity
While the toll cap offers some financial relief, key road upgrades and local connectivity issues remain unaddressed. Congestion continues to impact productivity and quality of life.
Economic growth
The budget lacks a clear long term strategy to support economic growth in Southwest Sydney. Greater investment in transport and connectivity is needed to develop the region as a major centre for jobs and industry.
