Regional NSW: Supporting families, securing our future

Foreword

Cost-of-living pressures remain a challenge for the people of regional NSW. Longer travel distances, higher energy needs and fewer alternatives mean higher costs are often felt most acutely in regional communities.

Cost‑of‑living relief is central to this Budget. Targeted measures reduce everyday costs, including lower registration costs through a $100 discount on private vehicle registration over 12 months, alongside $480.0 million in interest‑free loans and $77.1 million in discounts through the NSW Home Energy Saver program to help lower energy bills over time.

At the same time, this Budget recognises that access to essential services should not depend on where you live. It strengthens support for regional patients and families, while investing $10.3 billion statewide in health and $9.2 billion in new and upgraded schools, ensuring regional communities continue to access high‑quality care and education close to home.

This Budget also supports regional jobs, industries and infrastructure investment that will strengthen connectivity and community, and drive growth, with $331.6 million to commence the Pacific Highway Wyong Town Centre project, alongside community investments such as a $31.0 million partnership with NSW Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) to support youth programs, address youth crime, and enhance First Nations engagement and community resilience across regional NSW.

The Budget also invests in safety and resilience across regional NSW, including $86.6 million to continue the Shark Mitigation program, helping keep coastal communities and visitors safe while supporting local tourism economies.

Together, this Budget reflects a balanced approach of providing immediate cost‑of‑living relief while investing in the infrastructure, industries and services for thriving regional communities into the future.

Regional NSW plays a vital role in our state’s prosperity. By easing pressures today and investing in the future of regional NSW, this Budget ensures our regions remain strong, connected and full of opportunity.