The State Government has approved the final stage of Inland Rail in New South Wales, marking a significant milestone for the federally funded freight corridor that will eventually link Melbourne to Brisbane.
The planning approval for Phase 2 of the Narrabri to North Star section clears the way for a 15-kilometre upgrade of track between Moree and Camurra North, running through the Moree Plains Shire. This completes the seventh and final section of Inland Rail requiring state-level sign-off in NSW.
The project is part of the 1,700-kilometre Inland Rail program, which is expected to cut freight travel times between Melbourne and Brisbane to under 24 hours and reduce congestion on Sydney’s metropolitan rail lines.
NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully, described the approval as a step towards modernising freight infrastructure across the state.
“The Inland Rail program is another step closer to reality with the planning approval of this important section of the track,” Mr Scully said.
“This is more than just laying down steel – it’s laying the groundwork for regional growth, unlocking new opportunities in logistics, agriculture, and trade.”
“By shifting freight from road to rail, we’re cutting emissions and making our road network safer.”
According to the NSW Government, Phase 2 will support the movement of up to 21 double-stacked freight trains, contributing to more sustainable and efficient freight transport across the country. It is anticipated to create approximately 150 construction jobs and 50 ongoing roles once operational.
NSW Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said the approval marked a turning point for regional connectivity and local economies.
“This is the moment regional NSW has been waiting for. The project can move from planning to delivery – unlocking jobs, investment and a faster, smarter freight pathway across the state,” Ms Aitchison said.
“It’s a game-changer for connectivity from paddock to port.”
She also acknowledged past challenges facing the project, noting the findings of the independent Schott Review.
The Inland Rail project has faced ongoing scrutiny over governance, delivery delays, and cost escalations. In August 2023, the Schott Review recommended significant changes to improve oversight and ensure more realistic delivery timelines. This latest approval signals renewed state-level commitment to progressing the project.
Minister for Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty, said the decision would deliver long-term benefits for communities and local producers.
“The Minns Government is focused on delivering for rural and regional communities and this final stage of the Inland Rail being greenlit demonstrates our ability to get things done,” Ms Moriarty said.
“The project will create more jobs and open up new opportunities for investment in the bush by delivering stronger connections between local producers and their national and international markets.”
The planning approval includes conditions to manage environmental, cultural, and social impacts—covering issues such as flooding, biodiversity, traffic, and Aboriginal cultural heritage—in line with NSW Government assessment protocols.
Phase 1 of the Narrabri to North Star section, involving 170 kilometres of track upgrades, had already received planning approval and is progressing toward delivery.
Further details and documents relating to the project are available on the NSW Department of Planning website: www.planning.nsw.gov.au.
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