Mayoral Column – Continuing to advocate for Penrith

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

It’s a fantastic time to be part of this City with Penrith’s transformation underway.

Opening dates have been announced for Western Sydney International Airport, only 15km from our City centre. Freight operations will start in July, with passenger flights taking off from the end of October.
St Marys will be a critical transport link and focus of investment. The only established centre to be connected to the airport by Metro, I’m excited to see the St Marys Town Centre vision come to life after the NSW Government’s approval of Council’s Master Plan. 

We’re embracing the opportunities ahead. In line with our ongoing delivery of key projects, Council continues to call on the Australian and NSW Governments for further investment in Penrith to ensure infrastructure keeps pace with growth.

Council is your voice and we know that you want us to be actively speaking on behalf of Penrith to influence future decision-making. With the Federal Budget 2026-27 to be announced in May and the State Budget 2026-27 due in June, Council is again highlighting Penrith’s significant role in the sustainable growth of Sydney. We’re asking all levels of government to keep working together to shape the City’s future.
Council’s advocacy wins include the Regatta Park and Tench Reserve upgrades and the award-winning Gipps Street Recreation Precinct. We’ve also secured funding for St Marys central park, with work starting this year, and the indoor multi-sports arena, now in the design phase.

There has also been funding committed for planning of the Devonshire Link Road, which will deliver a new north-south connection.

Penrith’s population is set to reach more than 270,000 by 2041. We need more homes and jobs, better roads, improved connectivity, enhanced liveability and greater access to public spaces.

Council’s endorsed Advocacy Strategy ensures we speak as one voice on Penrith’s priorities, which include the Castlereagh Connection and major road upgrades, Western Sydney Rapid Bus service, a creative makerspace and unlocking Fernhill Estate.

Council continues to meet with government ministers and members of parliament and lead discussions with strategic partners who share our vision for Penrith’s thriving future.

Visit penrith.city/advocacypriorities to learn more.

Cr Todd Carney
Mayor of Penrith

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Tuesday, 24 February 2026.