Macarthur region councils welcome Prime Minister's announcement, but s

Published on 13 March 2025

The Macarthur region councils – Camden, Campbelltown and Wollondilly Shire – welcome today’s announcement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of a $1 billion investment towards securing land corridors for a future rail connection between the Bradfield Aerotropolis, Leppington and Macarthur.

This rail connection has been a key advocacy priority for the region, with all three councils strongly pushing for better public transport infrastructure to support the rapidly growing Macarthur community. The councils acknowledge the work of The Parks, Sydney’s Western Parkland Councils and Chair Todd Carney for strongly advocating for the full north-south rail link, including the Macarthur connection.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney, Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Darcy Lound, and Mayor of Wollondilly, Cr Matt Gould, said the announcement was a fantastic first step, but urgent action was still needed from both the State and Federal Governments to fully fund and deliver the project.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Ashleigh Cagney emphasised the importance of long-term transport planning, noting that securing these corridors now ensures future connectivity for residents across southwest Sydney.

“This $1 billion investment to secure the land corridors is welcome news, but it is only the beginning. The full construction of this rail link will cost tens of billions of dollars, and we need firm commitments from all levels of government to see this project through,” she said.

“As a region, we have been strong advocates for improved public transport and better connectivity, and this funding announcement is a key step in the right direction.”

Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr Darcy Lound, thanked the Federal Government for this commitment and highlighted that our region needs to be connected now and works need to get underway.

“This commitment to preserve the rail corridor is a vital first step forward for the Macarthur region and acknowledges our rapid growth and urgent infrastructure needs. It’s no doubt that a dedicated rail corridor will help support future growth,” he said.

“We have a long way to go and will continue our advocacy for commitment to delivery of this project, which is critical for the prosperity and future of our region.

“As development of the Western Sydney Airport continues, we urge the Government to commit to the delivery of this important connection. The machines are on the ground now, let’s see them keep working to connect the entire region so the benefits can be seen immediately and into the future.”

Mayor of Wollondilly, Cr Matt Gould, said:

“This is a positive next step in getting a much-needed rail connection built for our rapidly growing population, to access the new airport and close the rail loop in southwest Sydney,” he said.

“Wollondilly has been part of a growing chorus of voices calling for an investment into the metro link, and today’s announcement is a great start to get this project under way. We need to see the delivery of a full south-north rail from Macarthur to Tallawong.

“This is a key next step in connecting Western Sydney and addressing the major infrastructure gap for our region. It’s about time we have our fair share.”