Dungog's roads support critical infrastructure that benefits the wider Hunter region, yet our small ratepayer base is left carrying a disproportionate share of the cost of maintaining them.
 

Dungog Shire plays a vital role in supporting the Lower Hunter's water security, with the Williams River and Chichester catchments contributing the majority of the drinking water supply for more than 600,000 Hunter residents.
 

Much of our Shire is home to critical water infrastructure, catchment areas, protected lands, State forests and National Parks. Our local roads provide essential access to these assets, supporting their operation, maintenance and management, while also serving local communities, businesses and visitors.
 

However, the current funding model does not adequately recognise the additional demands placed on our road network by infrastructure and assets that deliver benefits well beyond Dungog Shire.
 

Our community should not be expected to shoulder the financial burden of maintaining roads that support essential State infrastructure and services for the broader region.
 

Dungog Shire Council is calling for a fairer funding approach that recognises the regional and State significance of these roads and ensures the NSW Government contributes appropriately to their ongoing maintenance and improvement.

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These roads support the Hunter. Their funding should reflect that.