The NSW Budget has included $30 million to begin planning upgrades to the M1 Pacific Motorway between Tweed Heads and Byron Bay, in what appears to be a significant new commitment to the North Coast’s busiest transport corridor.

The funding, to be delivered over the next four years in partnership with the Federal Government, was among several North Coast measures announced in Wednesday’s state budget, alongside ongoing investment in school infrastructure in Ballina Shire, river health programs and biosecurity initiatives.

While no major new Ballina Shire-specific projects were announced, the government confirmed it would continue funding the relocation of Lennox Head Public School and the construction of a public preschool at Wollongbar Public School as part of its commitment to deliver 100 public preschools across NSW.

The budget also confirmed ongoing delivery of a preschool at Lennox Head Public School.

Environment and agriculture also featured prominently, with $5 million allocated for river health and hydrological restoration works across the Richmond, Evans, Brunswick and Tweed catchments. The funding is aimed at improving river systems that are vital to both local communities and industries.

A further $7 million has been allocated to rebuild and deliver the NSW cattle tick program, designed to protect the livestock industry from one of its most significant biosecurity threats.

Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the government was making “a significant and coordinated investment across the Northern Rivers”.

“From major biosecurity programs to critical river health and hydrologic restoration works we are taking practical action to protect both primary industries and natural assets,” she said.

The budget also includes more than $546 million to restore roads and other public assets damaged by natural disasters across the North Coast, and $241.1 million over two years to continue the Northern Rivers Resilient Homes Program.

Other measures affecting North Coast residents include a $100 rebate on private vehicle registrations, interest-free loans and discounts for energy-efficient appliances, additional funding for regional police stations, and major ongoing investments in health infrastructure, including the redevelopments of Grafton and Port Macquarie hospitals.

North Coast Minister Janelle Saffin said the budget was focused on easing household pressures while investing in the region’s future.

“As the Treasurer made clear, this Budget is about delivering relief today alongside generational reform for tomorrow,” Ms Saffin said.

“For the North Coast, that means a massive investment in our most vital essential service – building and upgrading local schools, restoring local roads after disasters, and delivering major health infrastructure.”

Main image: North Coast Minister Janelle Saffin with Regional NSW and Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty