Roads Act Reform Consultation
“How should we manage roads and streets in NSW for the next 30+ years, and how ambitious should the reform be? ”
The Roads Act Reform options paper is out for consultation and we want to hear from you! 🚨The big question is: How we should manage roads and streets in NSW for the next 30+ years, and how ambitious should the reform be?
The options paper outlines three potential models...
Model 1: Keep the current structure with a tidy-up
👍 Small updates that maintain the status quo, focused on processes and compliance.
👎 It doesn't focus on outcomes, and doesn't change who holds power or how decisions are made.
Model 2: Plan-led reform
👍 This introduces local and regional road network plans to clarify who manages which roads, and the preferred outcomes (e.g. safety, equity, climate). It aligns with Movement + Place and supports more transparent decision-making.
👎 It doesn’t include independent oversight or formal performance reporting. That means relying on goodwill to deliver preferred outcomes, but limited accountability if they're not achieved.
Model 3: Institutional change
🌶️👍 The boldest option. It proposes a new independent regulator for the state road network — similar to other sectors like energy, water and health. This independent body would:
Be separate from the agencies and councils who build and manage roads
Monitor performance and compliance with strategic plans and planning conditions
Ensure accountability for required outcomes like safety, equity and climate
Adapt to future challenges like new transport tech and climate change.
➕ These models build on each other and could be introduced gradually, giving time for councils, agencies and communities to adapt.
📣 Better Streets, Walk Sydney and Committee for Sydney are all on the working group and we strongly encourage our networks to give feedback.
👉 ACTION TIME! The portal is open until 31 October 2025. You can:
1. Fill in the very short community survey (takes 1 minute, and you can add a sentence or two with your feedback)
2. Provide a written submission. Jump to pages 42–65 to read about the three models and give your response.
