Labor has promised to give Hunter residents a greater say in major transport decisions.
The party has promised to establish a Hunter Transport Authority, if it wins next weekend’s election.
The authority would be responsible for consultation, planning and performance of both government and private buses, trains, ferries, taxis and freight.
It would also prepare a 20-year masterplan for transport in the region and consult with local councils on transport solutions.
Labor says having a separate authority on the ground would ensure decisions like cutting the Newcastle inner-city rail line would not proceed without extensive community consultation.
“A Hunter Transport Authority will protect our community from slick-talking Sydney politicians who think they know what’s best for us,” said Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery.
