Budget Relief Welcome, Infrastructure Gaps Remain

Leading advocacy group, the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue, has welcomed Federal Budget measures aimed at helping ease cost-of-living pain and support young home buyers, but warns more support is needed for the nation’s fastest-growing region.

The Dialogue backed the announcement of investments and tax reforms that will benefit Western Sydney communities and businesses, including support for first home buyers and small businesses, alongside support for manufacturing and logistics businesses facing disrupted supply chains.

CEO Adam Leto said he recognised the Government’s challenge in trying to contain rising inflation, but that the need for continued and significant infrastructure investment was vital.

“Over the past decade, the Federal Government has played a key role in supporting the region’s growth, with billions of dollars spent on critical road, rail and health projects,” Mr Leto said.

“But Western Sydney is not slowing down, we need to keep our foot on the pedal.

“There’s no doubt tax cuts and cost-of-living measures such as the Working Australians Tax Offset will be welcomed in Western Sydney, where cost-of-living pressures have hit households hard.

“But as Western Sydney gets ready to welcome the world later this year with the opening of Western Sydney International Airport, we need to be looking at the infrastructure and investment required to ensure we make the most of this generational opportunity.

“We’d encourage the Federal Government to work closely with the NSW Government and local councils to identify and prioritise the key projects that can support the growth of more homes, jobs and investment.”