Penrith Mayor welcomes infrastructure commitments, but says more is needed

Thursday, 3 April 2025

Penrith Mayor Todd Carney has welcomed funding commitments made in the lead up to the Federal Election, but says there are still gaps in critical infrastructure investment to support Penrith and Western Sydney.

Today (4 April, 2025) Opposition Leader Peter Dutton announced:
• $117.5 million to complete the final leg of the Mulgoa Road corridor upgrade (Stages 5A and 5B), and
• $15 million to plan for improved future transport connections with the Old Windsor Road-Windsor Road corridor and Werrington Arterial Stage 2 business case.

“Penrith Council has been calling for funding for some time to complete the missing upgrade link on Mulgoa Road, and I look forward to this announcement being matched by the Australian Government,” Cr Carney said.

“Upgrading Mulgoa Road is essential to close gaps in Penrith’s busiest arterial corridor, supporting regional north-south connectivity and future economic and residential growth.”
Progressing the business case for Werrington Arterial Stage 2 has also been welcomed.

“This missing 2.2km link will improve road safety, reduce congestion and provide vital pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure, while supporting freight movement across the Northwest Growth Area,” Cr Carney said.

Last month Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced $1 billion to secure future rail corridors between Leppington and Bradfield, and between the Bradfield City Centre and suburbs in the Macarthur region. The Coalition has matched that funding announcement.

Cr Carney said: “To enable Greater Sydney to grow sustainably, we must connect Western Sydney in and of itself. These funding announcements are an excellent start.

“However, we must push on at pace to deliver other vital infrastructure if we are to realise the extraordinary potential of Western Sydney, and top of the list has to be north-south rail connecting the entire region.”

Penrith Council’s Advocacy Strategy 2025 highlights critical road and transport requirements that are outstanding, including full length north-south rail and Western Sydney Rapid Bus Services.

“Penrith Council is advocating for a dedicated rapid bus service to connect major employment and residential hubs and strengthen public transport links throughout Western Sydney and to the new airport,” Cr Carney said.

“It’s critical for public infrastructure plans for Western Sydney to be fast-tracked and finalised, so that the extraordinary potential of the region can be realised.”

Cr Carney also acknowledged the commitment by the Australian Government of $2.25 million funding for resurfacing, field extension, drainage improvements along with design work for a future facility upgrade at Leonay Sports Oval, and $1.1 million to upgrade recreation facilities at Emu Plains and Emu Heights.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Thursday, 3 April 2025.