Farmers Call for Urgent Action on Rural Road Infrastructure Funding

Farmers are calling for urgent action from federal and state governments to address the deteriorating state of rural road infrastructure in the wake of ongoing damage caused by major flooding events in the Northern Rivers region three years ago.

Xavier Martin, President of NSW Farmers, highlighted the urgent need for increased funding to repair and upgrade rural roads and bridges, which have been left damaged and impassable since the floods of 2021.

“The condition of regional roads is unacceptable, and it’s clear that repair efforts have fallen short,” stated Mr. Martin. “For far too long, rural communities have been forced to navigate dangerous roads or seek alternative routes just to carry out everyday tasks.”

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While acknowledging some initiatives such as the Regional Roads and Transport Package and the appointment of a new CEO for the NSW Reconstruction Authority, Mr. Martin emphasised that much more substantial action is needed to address the extensive damage to rural infrastructure.

“With the federal and state budgets approaching, it’s imperative that adequate funding be allocated for rural road repairs and upgrades,” Mr. Martin asserted.

“Failure to prioritise this essential infrastructure will impede farmers’ ability to transport their goods efficiently and safely.”

He emphasised the critical role that well-maintained roads play in ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality agricultural products to consumers nationwide.

Without adequate investment in road maintenance and improvement, the task of supplying the nation with food and fibre becomes increasingly challenging and costly.

“It’s time for meaningful action to address the longstanding neglect of rural roadways,” Mr. Martin concluded. “Rural communities have endured substandard infrastructure for far too long, and it’s imperative that tangible steps are taken to rectify this situation.”

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