Hunter mayors head to NSW Parliament seeking $938 million infrastructure commitment

Newy 87.8 FM – Leaders from the Hunter's ten councils will return to NSW Parliament House on 15 and 22 October, taking a united regional voice to Ministers, Shadow Ministers and crossbench members ahead of the 2027 NSW Election.

The Hunter Joint Organisation says councils are seeking commitments on jobs, housing supply, infrastructure and the long-term sustainability of local government as the region navigates economic transition and population growth.

A key focus will be advocating for investment in enabling infrastructure, including roads, water, sewer and stormwater networks. Hunter councils have identified approximately $938 million in infrastructure investment that could help unlock around 61,000 new homes across the region.

Hunter Joint Organisation Chair and Singleton Council Mayor Sue Moore said the region is looking for action, not just acknowledgement. "The Hunter cannot afford to be an afterthought in the lead up to the 2027 election," she said.

The delegation will also highlight financial pressures on councils, including calls for a greater share of waste levy revenue. In 2024/25, Hunter councils contributed $116 million to the NSW Government through the waste levy, with only $5.9 million returned for waste initiatives.

Muswellbrook Shire Council Mayor Jeff Drayton said communities need certainty and investment, while Lake Macquarie Mayor Adam Shultz said councils had built a shared regional vision and were calling on decision-makers to partner with them to deliver it.

The region represents more than 800,000 people and Australia's largest regional economy.

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