Business calls for commitment on NSW infrastructure development

<p>Business groups have called on New South Wales premier Morris Iemma to commit to regulatory and infrastructure reforms after the Labor Party’s return to government.</p> <p>Industry groups have welcomed the returned premier with calls this morning (Monday, March 26) for increased infrastructure spending and planning. </p> <p>Shipping Australia chief executive Llew Russell said he hoped the Government would see its way clear, post election, to expedite port infrastructure projects.</p> <p>&#8220The importance here is it clears the way to get on with infrastructure proposals, particularly progressing the Enfield proposal &#8211 the development of the intermodal terminal,&#8221 he said.</p> <p>The development of Port Botany, Port Kembla, and the upgrade of existing road and rail links were also projects of importance, Mr Russell said.</p> <p>&#8220Generally we would hope that these port projects would be expedited.&#8221</p> <p>NSW Road Transport Association spokesman Hugh McMaster said the Government had much work to do in improving port, road and rail infrastructure.</p> <p>&#8220A factor in the swing against the Government was the state’s economy is sluggish it is the highest tax state in the country,&#8221 he said. </p> <p>&#8220That makes it unattractive to do business.&#8221</p> <p>Mr McMaster said an efficient road network was important to the development of a strong state economy.</p> <p>&#8220The electorate has said to [the Labor Party&#93, `We’re prepared to give them another go &#8211 but we’re not happy’.</p> <p>&#8220There is more to do.&#8221</p> <p>The NSW Farmers’ Association has called on the new Government to commit to a rural summit to discuss the implementation of new policies for the benefit of rural and regional NSW.</p> <p>NSW Farmers’ Association president Jock Laurie was seeking commitments on rural infrastructure, red tape and the cost of compliance and the enhancement of rural communities.</p> <p>&#8220We feel that it is important a proper plan for implementation is agreed on immediately, because these issues are not going to fix themselves,&#8221 Mr Laurie said. </p> <p>&#8220We are optimistic that the next four years will see real improvements to rural and regional communities, and we would like to plans for ensuring that happens worked out as soon as possible.&#8221</p> <br />