This paper was submitted to Transport for NSW in February 2026, with an addendum added in March 2026 following the Great Western Highway Closure.
Context: In 2024 the NSW Government commissioned the Sydney to Central West Corridors White Paper to evaluate access and capacity challenges along the Great Western Highway and Bells Line of Road between Western Sydney and Bathurst. The final Paper was released in February 2026.
Our Position: DNCW supports the strategic intent of the White Paper, particularly its recognition that the corridor performs multiple roles including freight, commuter, tourism, emergency and regional development, and must be planned accordingly. The key issue for the Central West is whether corridor outcomes match the scale of regional growth ambitions and national economic importance, and this White Paper should clearly articulate a long-term corridor vision.
Addendum: An addendum was added to DNCW's submission in March 2026 following the closure of the Great Western Highway. This closure demonstrates the need for corridor redundancy and resilience planning to deliver reliable access to the Central West for visitors, freight and communities. DNCW reiterates the need for a long-term vision for the Sydney-Blue Mountains-Central West corridor that remains accessible and capable of supporting future economic growth.
