Exploring the social, environmental and economic impact of rail services in regional NSW is the focus of a research project commissioned by the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW.

Associate Professor Ian Gray from the Centre for Rural Social Research at Charles Sturt University (CSU) is leading the project which aims to provide a foundation for planning future regional public transport.

Local Government Association President Cr Dr Sara Murray said the research would provide a vital contribution to the debate on CountryLink rail services.

“Local government is very concerned by the steady decline in the provision of rail passenger services in rural and regional areas of NSW and the affect this is having on local communities.

“This research will help identify the true impact of the deterioration of our passenger rail services. It will seek to explore the broader social, environmental and economic aspects of rail services in regional areas, and will help us in our push for a real increase in investment.” 
 
Associate Professor Gray is conducting a survey of people across the state, including those in Sydney’s outer metropolitan areas, to ascertain the transport needs of local people. 

“We hope to talk to some 500 people about their needs and the ways they travel which will give us an indication of the potential for passenger train services to meet the needs of regional people,” Professor Gray said.

CSU is currently sending out letters of invitation to participate in the survey and recipients will be contacted in the next few weeks.

Shires Association President Cr Phyllis Miller also said it was clear more funding for country rail services was needed. The project’s final report will be available at the Local Government Association annual conference in late October.