Local mother Karen Smith, Dr Gordon Reid MP, and Councillor Belinda Neal.

12 August 2026

 

FOLLOWING the 2026-27 Budget, the Government has established the program as an ongoing measure, with $50 million available each year.

 

The new funding will support projects including new and upgraded shared paths, safer crossings, improved cycling connections and better links to schools, transport hubs and local centres.

 

Federal Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid said, "the investment would help deliver long-term benefits for the community while supporting more sustainable and active ways to travel.

 

“81 projects were funded under the first round of the Active Transport Fund.

 

“Active transport is cheaper, healthier and better for the environment.

 

“This investment is about making it easier and safer for people to move around their local community, whether they are walking to school, riding to work or connecting to public transport.

 

“In partnership with Gosford West Ward Councillor, Belinda Neal, and Woy Woy resident, Karen Smith, we are encouraging Central Coast Council to submit an application for funding to deliver pedestrian infrastructure at Woy Woy South Public School, to improve safety and accessibility.”

 

The application-based, merit-assessed program is open to local, state and territory governments for new and upgraded walking and cycling infrastructure.

 

The funding aims to deliver safer active transport networks that promote healthier, more liveable communities.

 

The new round builds on the $100 million already supporting 81 active transport projects nationwide under the Fund.

 

The Fund is a core component of the Australian Government’s work to improve road safety for vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, under the National Road Safety Strategy 2021-30.

 

This investment also supports national goals aimed at reducing transport emissions and advancing sustainable, healthy transport options nationwide.

 

Gosford West Ward Councillor, Cr Belinda Neal said that the active transport fund is a great support for communities to enhance the health and safety of our children by funding an important project adjacent to the Woy Woy South Public School.

 

“I am pleased to continue to work with Dr Gordon Reid to benefit the lives of our local children," Ms Neal said.

 

“The Active Transport fund is another important support for our Central Coast Community.”

 

Applications will close at 5:00pm (AEST) on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.

 

Further details on the program, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, are available in the application portal on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sports and the Arts website.

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