Transport for NSW will consolidate the operation of 12 state-owned car ferries, improving safety, delivering more reliable services while continuing to support local jobs.
Commencing from February 2027, the operation of car ferries at nine locations, six across Greater Sydney and three in regional locations, will all be brought under one roof with Transport for NSW taking responsibility.
Transport for NSW already owns the 12 ferry vessels and associated infrastructure in Sackville, Webbs Creek, Wisemans Ferry, Lower Portland, Mortlake (Putney Punt), and Berowra Waters, and across the regions in Lawrence (Bluff Point), Speewa, and Wymah.
As current contracts reach their expiry, consolidating the operation of these services into Transport for NSW will improve oversight over safety and maintenance.
Local jobs will also be protected, with all existing frontline employees currently operating the ferries given the opportunity to join Transport for NSW.
The change will also enhance Transport for NSW’s operational and maintenance expertise, creating flow-on benefits across the broader vehicle ferry network and helping build a skilled workforce.
These services are used by thousands of people every day in parts of the state where car ferries are the only way for drivers to get to where they need to go. In 2025 alone, more than 1.5 million vehicles used these services across NSW.
The change will also strengthen the NSW Government’s capability to prepare for and respond to emergencies such as floods, with vehicle ferries playing a critical role in keeping communities connected during these times.
Minister for Roads and Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said:
“With Transport for NSW already owning these ferries, taking on their operations makes sense, to ensure the delivery of safer and more reliable services for communities that rely on them every day.
“As a result of this move, Transport for NSW will oversee all aspects of these state-owned ferries and services, with clearer accountability and stronger safety oversight.
“This decision is about creating a more integrated ferry network that delivers better outcomes for motorists and communities – whether it’s the daily commute to work, or keeping families connected during floods and other emergencies.
“We’re also supporting local jobs by giving existing ferry workers the opportunity to join Transport for NSW and strengthen our public workforce.”
Deputy Secretary of the Maritime Union of Australia (Sydney Branch) Paul Garrett said:
“The Maritime Union of Australia welcomes the NSW Government’s decision to insource the operation of wire-drawn ferries. This is a practical decision that puts safety, accountability and service reliability first.
“These workers have delivered an outstanding service over many years and deserve certainty about their future and recognition for the important role they play in keeping communities connected.
“We look forward to working constructively with the NSW Government and Transport for NSW to ensure a smooth transition for employees and to continue delivering safe and reliable services.
“The MUA congratulates Minister Jenny Aitchison and the NSW Government for listening to workers and recognising that public transport is best delivered in the public interest, not for private profit.”
