NSW road transport plans “a positive step”

THE Australian Logistics Council has described as “a positive step” an announcement from New South Wales planning minister Paul Scully proposing simpler, more flexible planning rules to support supply chain logistics and freight transport.

According to the ALC, this follows years of advocacy with governments at all levels to improve planning outcomes for Australia’s supply chains.

“Sydney faces an acute shortage of suitable industrial sites, particularly around our ports, airports and major freight corridors,” an ALC statement read.

“With available land increasingly scarce and expensive, protecting these strategic locations is critical to supporting future growth. The implications reach well beyond our industry.”

“Every new home needs building materials. Every supermarket needs deliveries. Every business relies on goods moving efficiently through our freight networks.”

The NSW policy document can be viewed here.

According to the ALC, making better use of existing sites, streamlining approvals and providing certainty for investment would help businesses respond to growing demand.

“As ALC works with members to develop six industry priorities ahead of the March 2027 NSW election, planning reform and better freight connections will remain important areas of discussion,” the ALC statement read.

“We welcome the NSW government recognition of these challenges and look forward to working with minister Scully, our members and all political parties to support a more efficient, productive and resilient supply chain.”

Mr Scully said the state government was making “commonsense changes to expand the industrial land our state needs to power its economy and support jobs, not just for today but for the decades ahead”.

“Industrial land is the backbone of our freight and logistics networks. Every time you order an online package or have your groceries delivered, it comes through an industrial or employment zone to get to you,” Mr Scully said.

“Fairer, clearer, simpler rules cut red tape, back business investment and lift productivity.

“We are making it easier to build, operate, invest, and create jobs in this state.

“With these reforms we have delivered every action in our Industrial Lands Action Plan, a stronger framework to protect, manage and grow industrial land across the state. We said we would do it and we have.”