At the Road Freight NSW 2025 Conference and Awards, John Graham, NSW Minister for Transport, acknowledged the tough environment for freight businesses and committed the state government to reforms aimed at boosting productivity, improving port operations, and easing toll costs for operators.
“Road Freight NSW has provided direct and very frank advice, and that’s been crucial in shaping our policies,” Graham said. “We know how important it is for government to back the industry and get the right results.”
Freight review: $1.6 billion growth opportunity
Graham highlighted the findings of the NSW Freight Review released in June.
“The review set out a pathway to grow the value of freight by $1.6 billion a year, and by 2060 almost double the size of the freight workforce,” he said.
The report made 95 recommendations covering road, rail, port, and intermodal facilities, with a strong focus on industrial land planning. Graham stressed the need for better strategic planning to keep freight depots close to manufacturing and population centres rather than being “pushed to the edge of the city.”
The government is also examining ways to move more freight at night to ease congestion.
“The idea that we’re moving freight right at the same time as key commuter traffic is something we can improve if we really do the work,” Graham said.
Port reforms and independent oversight
On port operations, Graham confirmed progress on implementing the Port Botany Landside Improvement Strategy.
“We’ve adopted 21 of the 22 recommendations, but we’ve also listened to industry concerns,” he said.
In response, the government has appointed the NSW Small Business Commissioner’s mediation service as an independent facilitator to oversee reforms.
“Their role will be to invite all parties, including Road Freight NSW and trucking operators, to ensure all voices are heard and outcomes are fair.”
Toll reform trial and motorway network changes
Graham said toll reform remains a top priority, with a two-year trial underway to reduce truck costs on Sydney’s motorway network.
“The trial of the M5 rebate has already returned $16.6 million to drivers last year alone, and $8 million more in the first half of 2025,” he said.
The government has also set up a state-run toll entity, NSW Motorways, to negotiate directly with toll road operators.
“Our intention is to make the motorway network more productive and get a better deal for drivers,” Graham said. “The Premier has made it clear there will be a major public update before the end of the year.”
Rest areas and truck stop funding
The Minister also reaffirmed the government’s joint commitment with the Commonwealth to deliver a long-awaited Western Sydney Truck Stop.
“This is about turning NSW from one of the least friendly states for truckies into one of the most supportive,” Graham said. “We know how long this issue has dragged on, and we are determined to deliver it.”
A message to operators
Closing his address, Graham thanked operators for their resilience and contribution to the economy.
“On behalf of the government, thank you for what you’re doing every day. We know how important it is for the state and the country’s economy, and we’re backing you with reforms that will make a difference.”
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