Western Sydney leaders call on major parties to commit to $40m tourism package

We’ve heard an extensive list of funding and policy commitments from both sides of parliament in the lead-up to the 2023 NSW Election on Saturday, March 25. 

From the huge number of projects in our communities recently green lit under the Government’s WestInvest fund, to the opposition’s billion dollar pledge to repair local roads, plus their toll relief package, it’s clear that both parties understand the importance of western Sydney to their election prospects.

While our economic contribution is increasing, the importance of Western Sydney electorates to the hopes of State and Federal parties has always seen an influx of public appearances and promises as voting day nears, but a group of Western Sydney business leaders and experts are calling for more forward thinking from both sides, with the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue releasing their 2023 NSW Election Priorities, asking both major party leaders to commit to a $40 million Greater Western Sydney tourism package over the next four years, leading up to the opening of the new Aerotropolis in 2026 and beyond. 

The calls include a commitment to a number of tourism and commercial projects across the region, development of public transport and infrastructure around the new airport and more.

“The opening of the state’s first 24-hour international airport will see 10 million passengers travelling to Western Sydney each year - and our region is desperate to roll out the red carpet and put on a show,” said Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue Chair Christopher Brown. 

“For too long, Western Sydney has been overlooked and played second fiddle to the Eastern Suburbs,” 

“The arrival of our new airport provides us with an opportunity to help get our fair share of funding.”

Local leaders were quick to point out that the completion of the airport would instantly bring millions of tourists to the region’s doorstep, and the already-strong local tourism industry needed extra support now to ensure the benefits for the region can be maximised when that time arrives.

And it’s not just overseas tourists who’ll benefit; with up to 50 percent of the population of greater Sydney expected to be living in the western suburbs within the next 20 years as well, keeping the local population engaged is equally important. 

“This is the perfect time to transform Western Sydney’s visitor economy to create a thriving, multi-billion dollar industry,” said Blue Mountains Scenic World Managing Director Anthea Hammon, per the Daily Telegraph. 

“Western Sydney can become a massive events hub - for the families of Western Sydney and international tourists alike. 

“The GWS overnight visitor economy already contributes $4.2 billion to the NSW bottom line. With focus and funding, we can create a sustainable tourism industry that will be a boon for the local, state and national economies.”

‍