ROBERT DWYER APPOINTED SHADOW PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY FOR REGIONAL ROADS

Robert Dwyer • 28 January 2026

ROBERT DWYER APPOINTED SHADOW PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY FOR REGIONAL ROADS

Member for Port Macquarie, Robert Dwyer has been appointed Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Roads, strengthening the NSW Opposition’s focus on improving road safety, connectivity and investment across regional New South Wales.
 

Mr Dwyer said he was honoured to accept the appointment and looked forward to working closely with Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane, Deputy Leader Gurmesh Singh, and Shadow Minister for Roads Natalie Ward MLC to hold the Minns Government accountable for its approach to regional infrastructure.
 

“I am honoured to take on this new role and to be part of a strong Opposition team that understands the importance of investing in regional communities,” Mr Dwyer said.
 

“Roads are absolutely critical to the safety, productivity and liveability of regional NSW, and this role will allow me to advocate more strongly for the communities that rely on them every day.”
 

Mr Dwyer said his priority would remain delivering for the Port Macquarie electorate, particularly on long-standing road projects that are vital for safety and economic growth.
 

“My focus remains firmly on the Port Macquarie electorate,” he said. I will continue to push for funding and progress on the Oxley Highway upgrade between the ‘donut’ and the Wrights Road/Lake Road roundabouts, which is a key safety and congestion issue for our community, as well as the proposal for an overpass at the Houston Mitchell Drive/Pacific Highway intersection.
 

“I will also continue working to ensure the Harrington/Coopernook overpass remains on track, as it is a critical project for improving freight efficiency and reducing risk for motorists.”
 

Mr Dwyer said the new position would also give him greater insight into the challenges facing regional road networks across the state, particularly in communities that feel increasingly left behind.
 
“This role provides an opportunity to better understand the condition and needs of regional roads right across New South Wales.”
 

“For too long, regional communities have been asked to do more with less, while major infrastructure funding continues to be concentrated in Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong.”
 

Mr Dwyer said safe and reliable road links between coastal and inland communities were essential for regional economies, emergency services, tourism and everyday travel.
 

“We must have a safe and reliable road network that properly links the coast with the country,” Mr Dwyer said.
 

“Regional people deserve the same level of investment and attention as those in metropolitan areas, and I will be a strong voice for fairness when it comes to roads funding.”

 

Mr Dwyer said he looked forward to working with local councils, industry groups and community stakeholders to ensure regional roads were a priority for the next NSW election.

Robert's Media Releases

by Robert Dwyer 10 February 2026
Local Businesses Encouraged to Apply for NSW EV Fast-Charging Grants Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer is encouraging local businesses across the Mid North Coast to apply for NSW Government funding to install electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations, as part of ongoing efforts to expand clean transport infrastructure across the state. Under Round 4 of the NSW Electric Vehicle Strategy, funding has been allocated to help make EV ownership more convenient, accessible and reliable for motorists, particularly in regional areas. Mr Dwyer said the program has been updated to better reflect its long-term focus, including overcoming range anxiety, improving connectivity between metropolitan and regional NSW, and future-proofing the EV charging network beyond 2030. “Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in areas like the Mid North Coast, and it’s important our infrastructure keeps pace with demand,” Mr Dwyer said. “Eligible businesses can apply for grants of up to $20 million to install fast-charging stations, which will give drivers confidence to travel between towns and regions.” Mr Dwyer said the grants also present an opportunity for local businesses to attract visitors and support the regional economy. “Fast-charging stations encourage motorists to stop, shop and spend time in our communities, delivering real benefits for local businesses and tourism,” he said. “This is a practical investment that supports local jobs, strengthens our visitor economy and helps reduce transport emissions at the same time.” “By working together with local businesses, we can ensure the Mid North Coast is well positioned to benefit from the shift to electric vehicles and remain a connected, attractive destination for residents and visitors alike,” Mr Dwyer said. Businesses are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and apply through the NSW Government grants at www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/round-4-drive-electric-nsw-ev-fast-charging-grants Applications close 24th April 2026 at 11:00pm Media Contact: Terry Sara 6584 0977 or 0409 834 648
by Robert Dwyer 9 February 2026
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by Robert Dwyer 21 December 2025
People in the Port Macquarie electorate can recognise an outstanding older person in their community with nominations now open for the NSW Seniors Festival Local Senior of the Year Awards. Robert Dwyer said the awards celebrate the tremendous contribution seniors offer to their community. “If you know a senior who strives to make our community a better place through volunteering, innovation or simply supporting family and friends, now is the time to nominate them for recognition,” Mr Dwyer said. “We are fortunate to have so many seniors in our local community who are generous with their time, energy and commitment. “By highlighting seniors’ continued efforts in helping Port Macquarie thrive, we are continuing to challenge ageism and empower seniors to overcome social stigma.” Previously known as the NSW Seniors Local Achievement Awards, the awards highlight the diverse ways seniors enrich their communities. Each year, MPs across the state use the awards to recognise seniors in their community by hosting a small awards ceremony where recipients are celebrated. Nomination forms are available from all MP’s offices across the state and need to be completed and returned by Friday 16 January 2026. Successful recipients will receive their awards during the NSW Seniors Festival 2026, which runs from 2-15 March 2026. The annual festival is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and attracts more than 500,000 people at almost 50 DCJ-run and sponsored events across metro and regional areas. The festival commenced in 1958 and in 2026 will mark its 68th year. The festival promotes social inclusion and connection and encourages older people to attend events and become involved in art, sport, music, entertainment, technology, travel, health, wellbeing and recreation. For more information about NSW Seniors Festival Local Senior of the Year Awards, contact us by emailing portmacquarie@parliament.nsw.gov.au
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