Sturt Highway Taskforce Meeting

On 5 August I attended the quarterly meeting of the Sturt Highway Taskforce in Darlington Point. The meeting included presentations from Transport for NSW (TfNSW) on road safety, pavement planning and future investment along the Sturt Highway.

TfNSW outlined the Strategic Regional Transport Plans (SRTPs), which are now being developed across NSW. The Riverina-Murray plan will go out for consultation in 2026, and councils, including Hay, will have the opportunity to update and confirm their priorities. It is essential that local government remains closely involved, as on the ground realities of road use and community needs.

The Taskforce also heard about the forward works program. Each year TfNSW spends approximately $0.5 million on the Sturt Highway, including bitumen resealing, heavy patching, and rehabilitation works. While welcome, this level of investment is still only half of what is required to properly maintain a highway of such importance. The Taskforce resolved to continue advocating strongly for increased funding and a clear 10-year strategy for the Sturt.

Discussion also turned to the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). With oversized and over-mass vehicles expected to use the Sturt Highway to transport turbine components, careful planning and upgrades will be needed to ensure the road network can safely handle the load. Councils, including Hay, called for local government to have a seat at the table in route selection and planning conversations. We also emphasised the importance of securing legacy projects, such as overtaking lanes and road safety improvements, so that regions benefit from this major infrastructure investment.

The Sturt Highway Strategic Directions document was formally adopted at the meeting and will now be promoted to key state and federal ministers. Hay Shire Council will also make the document available to the community.