The Minns Labor Government has today released the draft Illawarra Shoalhaven Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP), a 20-year vision to guide the region’s transport future and support one of the most strategically important and fast-growing regions in NSW.
For the first time in over a decade, the Illawarra and Shoalhaven communities will be able to view an integrated long-term plan that sets out priorities based on evidence, data and extensive consultation with more than forty stakeholders including councils, members of parliament and community groups.
The draft Plan identifies a range of short, medium and long term actions across public transport, active transport, roads and freight to support the region’s population growth and changing needs.
The Minns Government is calling on the community to have their say.
Community members can view the draft Plan and provide comment until Monday, 9 February 2026 at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/illawarra-shoalhaven.
A community survey has been designed to help people provide feedback easily, and more detailed submissions can be uploaded or sent to engage.sritps@transport.nsw.gov.au or PO Box 477, Wollongong NSW 2520.
During the public feedback period, Transport for NSW staff will also be out across the region speaking directly with residents at local pop-up sessions.
Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast, Ryan Park said:
“The Illawarra is growing fast, and our transport network needs to grow with it. This draft Plan gives our community a clear view of what the next twenty years can look like.
“This work is about helping people get to work, school, the hospital and the beach more easily while keeping freight moving to support local jobs and industry.
“For locals, it means more reliable public transport, safer roads and stronger connections between our towns, suburbs and regional centres.
“I encourage the community to take a look and share feedback so we can keep shaping a strong transport future for the region.”
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces and Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said:
“This draft Plan is laying important groundwork to support the Illawarra and Shoalhaven’s fast growing community.
“As a major and fast expanding centre our community deserves transport planning for the future.
“The plan reflects the work the Minns Labor Government have been delivering through planning reforms and other initiatives in the region setting out practical actions to support new homes, new jobs and a growing population.
“By working closely with councils and community groups, we are making sure the long term vision for our region is coordinated, evidence based and ready for delivery.”
Minister for Regional Transport and Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison said:
“Today we are releasing a long-term vision that has been built with and for the Illawarra and Shoalhaven communities.
“Only the Minns Labor Government will deliver the well planned, people focused transport network that this growing region needs.
“We heard loud and clear that people want more travel choices, safer roads and better connections between towns and regional centres. This draft Plan reflects those priorities.
“I want to thank every resident and stakeholder who has shared feedback so far. Your insights help ensure the final Plan truly reflects the needs of the region.”
Member for South Coast, Liza Butler said:
“Our communities have been calling for safer roads and stronger connections between towns for many years. This draft Plan finally puts these priorities on the table.
“Reliable transport options make a real difference whether you live in Ulladulla, Nowra or our smaller coastal villages. I encourage everyone to have their say.”
Member for Heathcote, Maryanne Stuart said:
“This draft Plan puts people first. It recognises that families across the region need safe, reliable and efficient ways to get around.
“I want the community to jump online, take a look and help us shape the final Plan.”
Member for Shellharbour, Anna Watson said:
“This is an important milestone for our region. For the first time in a long while, we have a draft blueprint that reflects what Shellharbour residents have been saying for years.
“The plan sets out achievable actions that can improve public transport, strengthen safety and make life easier for the community.”
Member for Kiama, Katelin McInerny said:
“The Illawarra and Shoalhaven are experiencing strong growth and need a transport network that keeps pace with that change.
“This draft Plan outlines practical ideas to improve public transport, boost safety and make it easier for people to access work, study and essential services.”