Major Upgrade Coming to Western Sydney’s Roads

Truck drivers traveling across Sydney will soon have access to the city's first dedicated heavy vehicle rest area. The Australian and NSW governments have identified a six-hectare piece of land at Eastern Creek, located near a key motorway junction, to develop the much-needed facility.

The Albanese and Minns Labor Governments will each contribute $40 million as an initial step toward transforming the greenfield site into a purpose-built rest stop. The facility will provide truck drivers with essential amenities, including showers and a safe space to take a break from long hours on the road.

A Critical Initiative for Truck Drivers

Developing a dedicated truck stop in Western Sydney was a key election commitment by NSW Labor. The site at Eastern Creek will address the lack of rest areas between Pheasants Nest, south of Sydney, and Wyong to the north, covering a 180-kilometer stretch with nearly two hours of driving.

The location is ideal, situated just five minutes from the M7 and ten minutes from the M4. It will significantly benefit freight drivers traveling between Victoria and Queensland through Sydney.

Meeting the Needs of Truck Drivers

A survey of 800 truck drivers, primarily long-haul drivers of B-doubles and semi-trailers, highlighted safety and security as top priorities. Drivers also emphasized the need for separate toilet and shower facilities for female truckers.

Based on industry consultation and driver feedback, the new rest area will offer:

Flushing toilets
Clean drinking water
Hot showers
Ample parking, including secluded bays for sleeping
Shaded areas for rest outside the truck cabin

The facility will accommodate various heavy vehicles, including oversize overmass loads, ensuring truck drivers have a safe and accessible place to rest and manage fatigue as part of their journey.

For more details, visit: Heavy Vehicle Rest Stopping Improvements | Transport for NSW

Government Officials Speak on the Initiative

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King:

"The safety of our truck drivers is a priority, and improving the number and quality of heavy vehicle rest areas is crucial. We have listened to truck drivers and will deliver what they need: shelter, toilets, hot showers, drinking water, shade, and bays to sleep. These are basic workplace essentials that truck drivers do not always have access to while working on the road. Adequate rest areas help truckies manage fatigue and prevent road incidents, ultimately saving lives."

NSW Minister for Transport and Roads John Graham:

"Sydney has long been considered Australia's least truck-friendly city. We are changing that. Truck drivers are the backbone of our economy, and they deserve a proper place to rest and recharge. We promised to deliver a dedicated truck rest area in Western Sydney, and securing this six-hectare site is a crucial first step. The land is strategically located near the intersection of the M7 and M4, making it the perfect site. Currently, truck drivers must rely on service stations and local roads for breaks along a 180-kilometer stretch between the southern outskirts of Sydney and the Central Coast. This is unfair and unsafe. By ensuring our truck drivers are well-rested, we also make our roads safer for all motorists."

Federal Member for McMahon Chris Bowen:

"Western Sydney is the economic hub of Australia, with the Eastern Creek industrial complex being the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Supporting local truck drivers is essential to keeping our supply chains moving safely and efficiently. This project is a direct response to what the community and industry have asked for, and we are delivering it."

Steering Committee Chair Senator Glenn Sterle:

"The Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative aims to improve safety and productivity for truck drivers by providing vital new and upgraded rest areas. We want to keep both truck drivers and local communities safe. These new and improved rest stops will help drivers manage fatigue as they transport goods across the country."