Moree is set to strengthen its position as a major inland freight, logistics and agricultural processing hub, with the NSW Government confirming continued funding for the Moree Special Activation Precinct (SAP) in the 2026-27 Budget.
Moree Plains Shire Council has welcomed the commitment, saying it provides certainty for one of the region’s most significant economic development projects, while reaffirming its push for completion of the Australian Government’s Inland Rail project through the Moree Plains.
Mayor Susannah Pearse said the two projects were critical to securing the shire’s 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,” Pearse said.
The SAP will establish a new industrial precinct designed to attract businesses to the shire, encourage investment and diversify the regional economy. It is expected to create up to 4,000 jobs over 40 years across high-value agriculture, intensive horticulture, logistics, renewable and bioenergy, and food processing.
Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the first stage delivering the enabling infrastructure needed to support future industrial development. Works include internal roads, upgrades to Bullus Drive and Tycannah Street, intersection improvements connecting to the state road network, and installation of water, sewer, stormwater, electricity and communications infrastructure.
Pearse said the council remained committed to securing completion of the remaining 23km of Inland Rail upgrades between Tapscott Road and Camurra, known as Phases 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.
“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 delivery of both the Moree Special Activation Precinct and the Inland Rail project would unlock significant opportunities for investment, employment and industry growth, reinforcing Moree’s role as one of regional Australia’s key freight and agribusiness centres.
More information on the 2026-27 NSW Budget is available at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/noindex/2026-06/nsw-budget-2026-27-regional-glossy.pdf
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