Coffs Harbour MP and NSW Nationals Leader Gurmesh Singh says a proposed $5 billion investment in regional water infrastructure would help unlock housing and economic development across regional NSW.
The NSW Liberals and Nationals have announced plans to invest $5 billion over 10 years through a new Regional Infrastructure Guarantee if elected.
The proposed fund would replace the former Safe and Secure Water Program and would be backed by legislation and supported by royalties from the resources sector.
Singh, who is also Shadow Minister for Regional NSW, said improving water infrastructure was critical to addressing housing supply and supporting regional industries.
“The program will unlock more new homes across regional NSW, in an effort to ease the pressure on the supply side of housing,” Singh said.
“It will also build economic activity in regional NSW, enabling new and improved industrial projects to get underway.
“Labor under Chris Minns and Anthony Albanese has neglected regional water infrastructure for four years, now under our Regional Infrastructure Guarantee, regional NSW will finally see the investment it needs and deserves.”
NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane said the policy would represent the largest 10-year investment in regional water infrastructure in the state’s history.
“Across regional NSW, housing growth, industry, local economies, and job creation are being stifled by infrastructure that has reached its limits, whether it be aging, failing or non-existent,” Sloane said.
“In some communities, people don’t have access to clean water. Brown water coming out of your tap is just not acceptable in 2026.”
Shadow Minister for Water Steph Cooke said the policy was developed following consultation with the water and local government sectors, with funding intended to replace ageing infrastructure and support regional development.
“The Safe and Secure Water Program was a lifeline to regional areas, however, it did not fund programs to support housing development and industrial growth,” Cooke said.
“This program is designed to build the foundational infrastructure needed to attract new families and new business to the bush now and in the future.
“Importantly, money will once again flow into more pressing infrastructure projects, such as pipelines and treatment plants, to ensure the health and liveability of residents today.”
The Coalition said royalties from the resources sector would help fund the guarantee, allowing regional communities to benefit from industries operating in their areas.
“The resources sector relies on the strength of regional communities, and therefore, we see it as only fitting those royalties contribute to regional infrastructure,” Cooke said.
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