Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey MP and Moree Plains Shire Council Mayor Cr Susannah Pearse inspect railway sleepers linked to Inland Rail works. Image: Moree Plains Shire Council.
Moree Plains Shire Council has welcomed the NSW Government’s continued commitment to the $138.3 million Moree Special Activation Precinct, while keeping pressure on the Australian Government to finish Inland Rail works through the shire.
The 2026-27 NSW Budget lists the Moree SAP as a project the government will continue to deliver, describing it as a business hub designed to diversify the region’s strong agricultural economy.
Mayor Cr Susannah Pearse said both the SAP and Inland Rail were critical to Moree Plains’ long-term economic future.
“We are thrilled the NSW Government’s 2026-27 Budget states they will continue funding of $138.3 million towards the Moree Special Activation Precinct, providing confidence this project will continue to move forward,” Cr Pearse said.
The SAP is planned as a new industrial precinct to attract businesses, encourage investment and diversify the shire’s industry base. Council said it could create up to 4,000 jobs over 40 years across high-value agriculture, intensive horticulture, logistics, renewable and bio energy, and food processing.
Council said works are expected to commence in 2027, with the first stage to focus on essential enabling infrastructure for future investment and development. That includes internal roads, upgrades to Bulluss Drive and Tycannah Street, intersection improvements, and water, sewer, stormwater, electrical and communications infrastructure.
Cr Pearse said Council remained committed to securing the remaining 23km Inland Rail upgrade through Moree Plains, covering the Tapscott Road to Camurra sections known as Phase 2 and 2c.
“We are not giving up. Council has provided a submission to Federal Member for Parkes, Jamie Chaffey MP, who is continuing to beat the drum in Canberra,” Cr Pearse said.
“We have also met with Everald Compton, founder of the Inland Railway, to discuss potential private funding options that could assist in progressing the remaining sections of the project, alongside discussions with other rail stakeholders and industry representatives.”
Council said the SAP and Inland Rail together could strengthen Moree’s role as an inland freight, logistics and agricultural processing hub, creating long-term opportunities for local businesses, investment and jobs.
