NSW Farmers Seek Clarity Over Inland Rail Decision

NSW Farmers is calling on the Federal Government to provide answers following changes to the Inland Rail freight project.

Transport Minister Catherine King this week announced the project would effectively stop at Parkes, raising questions about the future of sections further north.

NSW Farmers President Xavier Martin says farming businesses and regional communities deserve certainty after years of disruption linked to the project.

He says Inland Rail had been strongly supported because of its potential to improve freight efficiency and strengthen supply chains for agriculture and regional industries.

Concerns have also been raised about easements already acquired north of Parkes, along with completed infrastructure between Narromine and North Star.

Mr Martin says the Federal Government must explain how freight capacity will now be improved across regional Australia and whether future investment will instead be directed into existing rail freight networks, rather than high-speed passenger rail proposals.