The Penrith community are encouraged to “Have Your Say” on ideas for the NSW Government’s new $5 billion WestInvest program that will fund transformational infrastructure projects in Western Sydney. 

The NSW Government is delivering WestInvest to rejuvenate local communities and improve liveability in Western Sydney.

The new $5 billion program will fund transformational infrastructure projects that support community amenity and economic recovery, making a real difference to life in Penrith, as it comprises some of the 15 eligible West and South-West Sydney Local Government Areas. 

Minister for Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said WestInvest would deliver better local facilities, more open spaces and convenient services all close to home.

“Western Sydney is already an incredible place to live – it is diverse and growing – WestInvest is about securing the best quality of life for families and making every part of Western Sydney a great place to live,” Mr Ayres said.

“This isn’t business as usual funding – WestInvest is designed to deliver real change at a community level. It will help to rejuvenate local communities with revitalised high streets, improved parks, new sporting fields, more pools, better local traffic flow and active transport links, plus much more.

“But WestInvest needs everyone’s input – we are already working with councils and government departments for projects that can be delivered quickly and effectively, but we need local communities and individuals to have their say because you know best which projects will most improve your neighbourhoods.”

Penrith City Council Mayor Tricia Hitchen welcomed the announcement and said “I am delighted to see the NSW Govermnent is committed to continued investment into Penrith which ensures our city is a great place to live, work and play.”

WestInvest will allocate funding for future projects across six areas: 
• parks, urban spaces and green space; 
• enhancing community infrastructure such as local sporting grounds; 
• modernising local schools;
• creating and enhancing arts and cultural facilities; 
• revitalising high-streets; 
• local traffic programs.

The $5 billion WestInvest Fund is broken down as follows:
• $3 billion for NSW Government agencies to deliver transformational projects;
• $2 billion for high priority community projects;
– $1.6 billion allocated to community groups, non-government organisations, and local councils;
– Up to $400m allocated directly to the 15 local councils.

The allocation of all $5 billion will be informed by the community “Have Your Say” process.

WestInvest will be available to 15 local government areas in Sydney: Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Burwood, Camden, Campbelltown, Canterbury-Bankstown, Cumberland, Fairfield, Hawkesbury, The Hills, Liverpool, Parramatta, Penrith, Strathfield and Wollondilly.

To put forward  ideas for WestInvest and your local community, visit www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/westinvestto