NSW Budget: Maritime safety and infrastructure

THE NSW Liberals & Nationals Government will invest $24 million to improve maritime safety and infrastructure in NSW as part of the 2011-12 Budget.

NSW Ports Minister Duncan Gay said the NSW Maritime budget would include a $13.4 million investment in upgrading commuter wharves in Sydney Harbour.

“NSW Maritime owns and maintains a network of more than 45 commuter wharves across the harbour and it is important this transport infrastructure meets appropriate standards of public safety and amenity,” Mr Gay said.

“The next commuter wharves in line for replacement are at Rose Bay and Neutral Bay.
“Funding includes $2.5 million for new NSW Maritime patrol boats and engines which provide fundamental operational tools for Boating Safety Officers statewide to carry out on-water safety compliance and education.

“There is also $1 million for new safe navigational markers, signage and public moorings. These navigation markers and signage are the traffic signs for our waterways and help keep the estimated 1.5 million people who go boating each year, safe.”

Other NSW Maritime projects in the for 2011-12 Budget include:

* $3.5 million to upgrade charter vessel wharves and redeveloping the Rozelle Bay Maritime precinct.
As part of the NSW Maritime operating Budget, which is additional to the capital program, other initiatives include:
* $5 million for the Better Boating Program; and
* $1.47 million to support the work of this non-government volunteer rescue group, Marine Rescue NSW.

The Better Boating Program is delivering new and improved boating facilities statewide through funding partnerships with councils and boating groups. Since 1998, more than $30 million in grants has been provided under this grants program to support nearly 600 boating infrastructure projects across NSW.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based group that plays a vital role in boating safety and service to the boating community.