Schools, buses headline early budget promises
NSW LABOR GOVERNMENT BUDGET PLEDGES
TRANSPORT:
* $452 million to increase bus services, including $56 million to purchase 50 new 'bendy' buses
* $150 million of above funds to be used for more regular school bus services in outer Sydney and regional areas
* Road upgrades and new signage around Western Sydney Airport precinct totalling $80 million
EDUCATION:
* $9 billion over four years for public school infrastructure, largely focused in growing suburban communities
* Three new public primary schools in west and southwest Sydney with attached public preschools along with one new high school
HEALTH:
* $700 million towards construction of the new Bankstown Hospital and necessary relocation of Bankstown TAFE
* A statewide pathology hub to be established at Westmead, the $492 million investment includes an upgrade to a high-security lab researching dangerous pathogens like Ebola and measles
* $23 million to cover an extra 3500 surgeries in the next year
LAW AND ORDER:
* $125.8 million for cybersecurity upgrades to NSW Police, $50 million of which will go to upgrade outdated hardware
* Victims' Support Service funding boosted by $227 million over five years to help victims of violent crime access counselling
* Upgrade of Downing Centre to create 15 new physical and virtual courtrooms and $48.3 million to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for additional solicitors
HOUSING
* $30.4 million crisis intervention package for homelessness services
* Extension of build-to-rent tax concessions beyond slated 2039 end date
* New guidelines to speed up construction of roads, schools and parks around developments
ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC SPACES:
* $110 million to maintain public spaces including the repair of Pyrmont Bridge and maintenance of fire trails
* Construction of the Newcastle Logistics Precinct for $115.5 million which will house wind turbines and electrical transformers used in renewable energy projects
* Commonwealth Veteran Card holders will receive free vehicle entry to all NSW National Parks
CULTURE:
* The establishment of a $100 million fund to find a suitable location for a second major film studio in Sydney
* $280 million to support the screen and digital games sector including rebates for NSW-based visual effects and digital games productions
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