The New South Wales Government has greenlit the final leg of Inland Rail – Phase 2 of the Narrabri to North Star section – clearing the tracks for faster freight, better connectivity, and a boost in regional jobs.
It marks the final planning approval required in New South Wales for the Commonwealth-funded 1700-kilometre freight link from Melbourne to Brisbane, which will cut travel times to under 24 hours and ease pressure on Sydney’s metropolitan rail network.
Phase 2 will upgrade 15 kilometres of track between Moree and Camurra North. Running through the Moree Plains Shire, the new line is supported by the council and forms a key link in the Inland Rail network.
Once complete, the corridor will be capable of carrying up to 21 double-stacked trains and represents a major leap toward cleaner, more sustainable and efficient freight movement between regional New South Wales, domestic ports, and international markets.
This phase of the project is expected to create about 150 jobs during construction and 50 ongoing roles, delivering a strong boost to the local economy and unlocking long-term opportunities for regional communities.
Approval finalises the last of seven sections of Inland Rail in New South Wales. It builds on the momentum of Phase 1, which is approved to deliver 170 kilometres of upgraded track between Narrabri and North Star.
The project’s approval includes conditions to address issues such as flooding, biodiversity, social impacts, traffic, and Aboriginal cultural heritage in line with assessment standards.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the Inland Rail program is more than just laying down steel – it’s laying the groundwork for regional growth, unlocking new opportunities in logistics, agriculture, and trade.
“By shifting freight from road to rail, we’re cutting emissions and making our road network safer.”
Jenny Aitchison, Minister for Regional Transport and Minister for Roads, said it’s the moment regional New South Wales has been waiting for.
“It’s a game-changer for connectivity from paddock to port,” Aitchison said.
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