The 2025–26 NSW Budget delivers huge investment in Pittwater, despite the NSW Government delivering a fiscally conservative budget squarely focused on housing. Sustained pressure from independent MP Jacqui Scruby has driven key community priorities to the top of the government’s agenda.
The Treasurer’s budget speech confirmed half billion dollars in combined state and federal investment to complete Mona Vale Road West.
“I haven’t met a person who doesn’t want the Mona Vale Road West upgrade completed. It never should have had the money pulled, and it's great to have the green light. We also receive continued funding for Wakehurst Parkway upgrades, ” said Ms Scruby.
“Another key win is securing funding for Narrabeen Athletics Track, which has been closed since 2023. I recently brought a debate in parliament and local groups and athletes have campaigned through the media. This money means the track is back!
“Narrabeen Sports High School was singled out for almost $3 million. The Deputy Premier announced a Creative and Performing Arts Centre for the School in April. This is a welcome investment in one of our wonderful local public high schools.”
“Pittwater will also benefit from a share of $844m for 60 new buses, as well as 274 electric buses for our Mona Vale and Brookvale depots.
Ms Scruby expects significant investment will be required by the NSW Government to purchase Northern Beaches Hospital, however, did not expect to see funding allocated in the budget as negotiations are still ongoing.
“This budget shows what happens when an independent MP works directly with the community and across party lines,” Ms Scruby said.
Ms Scruby notes that her work doesn’t stop here.
“People welcome budget wins and announcements but don’t want to celebrate until the works are delivered. I’ll continue to hold the government to account to ensure every promised dollar gets delivered and won’t stop until all the ribbons are cut.”
People in Pittwater care greatly about broader NSW issues, particularly addressing climate change, protecting our native forests, gambling reform, domestic violence support and supporting innovation, and according to Ms Scruby some will be disappointed.
“Whilst the budget includes $2.1 billion to roll out renewable energy zones in NSW, households won’t benefit from NSW battery or EV budget support, and there’s missed opportunities for net zero initiatives for the new homes that the NSW Government is focused on building. Meanwhile we continue to pay the cost of climate change with at least $4.2 billion for disaster relief.
“The NSW Government has gone shy on gambling reform, has failed to deliver an environment focused budget which although allocating money for a Koala Strategy, hasn’t backed the Great Koala National Park any further.”
But Ms Scruby says the $79.2m Investment Delivery Authority will provide vital support for new and emerging industries as we phase out coal and fossil fuel exports in the future.
The NSW Government’s $1.2 billion investment in child protection shifts the focus to supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.
“This focus on child protection will bring real benefits to Pittwater. Increased foster care allowances and better support for caseworkers will strengthen local services and help keep vulnerable children connected to their communities.”
The NSW Budget offers no new vouchers or direct cost-of-living relief for families, with programs like Back-to-School vouchers discontinued and the toll relief cap ending in January. For Pittwater families facing rising expenses, the lack of immediate financial support will be felt, despite broader investments in services across the state.
“This is the most targeted funding this community has ever received in a NSW Budget. I’ve advocated tirelessly for these projects applying evidence-based pressure.
“Budgets are about choices. our priorities are cutting through, and I thank the Minns Government for their support.”