The NSW Government has unveiled its 2026–27 State Budget, delivering a range of cost-of-living measures aimed at easing financial pressures on households while continuing major investments in health, education and infrastructure across the state.

Before the NSW Treasurer delivered the Budget Speech in Parliament, Oz Arab Media was among a select group of media organisations invited to attend the official Budget Lock-up, providing exclusive early access to the Budget papers and key announcements.

Presenting the Budget, the Treasurer described the Government’s approach as focused on “relief for today, reform for tomorrow and discipline always,” balancing immediate support for families with long-term economic planning.

Cost-of-Living Relief

A key feature of the Budget is a new Transport Affordability Package designed to help households manage rising living costs over the next 12 months.

The package includes:

• A $100 reduction in private vehicle registration costs.
• A freeze on Opal fares, keeping public transport prices at 2025 levels.
• A reduction in the weekly toll cap from $60 to $50.

The measures are expected to provide meaningful savings for commuters and families who rely on both public transport and private vehicles.

Major Investment in Western Sydney

Western Sydney remains a major focus of government investment, with significant funding allocated to support the region’s rapidly growing population.

Key commitments include:

• $10.3 billion in additional health funding, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government.
• $4.1 billion for the construction of new schools and upgrades to existing schools across Western Sydney.
• $3.8 billion over four years for new and upgraded hospitals throughout the region.
• $3.5 billion in additional investment for transport infrastructure and road projects.

The investments are aimed at improving access to essential services while supporting economic growth and future development across Western Sydney communities.

Fiscal Discipline and Budget Recovery

Alongside new spending initiatives, the Government has emphasised fiscal responsibility as part of its strategy to return the state’s finances to surplus.

As a cost-saving measure, the NSW Government has recently reduced the number of senior executives across the public sector by 615 positions.

The Government says these savings will help strengthen the state’s financial position while allowing frontline services and major infrastructure projects to continue.

According to Budget forecasts, New South Wales remains on track to return to a budget surplus in the 2027–28 financial year.

The 2026–27 Budget seeks to strike a balance between providing immediate relief for households facing cost-of-living pressures and investing in the long-term infrastructure and services needed to support a growing population.