The proposed high speed rail link between Newcastle and Sydney would require approvals under both NSW and Australian Government environment and planning legislation.

A planning approval strategy would be developed in consultation with the relevant government agencies under the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

The design, construction and operation of high speed rail would be based on sustainability principles including resource and materials efficiency, minimising environmental impacts, and promoting long-term resilience, community benefits, and economic viability.

The Authority is committed to delivering a world-class high speed rail project which demonstrates innovation in sustainability and is environmentally and socially responsible.

The proposed high speed rail network would operate on 100 per cent renewable energy and aim for carbon neutrality throughout all stages, including construction, positioning the Authority as a leader in sustainable transport and contributing to the Australian Government’s Net Zero targets.

Climate resilience, workforce and skill development and improved accessibility are some key focus areas. Ongoing consultation with industry, communities and stakeholders will help capture and realise project benefits.

The Authority is undertaking marine geotechnical investigations in the Hawkesbury River and Brisbane Water.

Investigations will help inform planning for the future Newcastle to Sydney high speed rail link and business case development. To support onsite investigations, an environmental impact assessment was undertaken and a minor works review of environmental factors (REF) document was prepared.

The purpose of the minor works REF is to describe the proposal, to document the likely impacts of the proposal on the environment, to detail mitigation measures to be implemented and to determine whether or not the proposal can proceed.

For the purposes of this work the Authority is the proponent and determining authority under Division 5.1 of the NSW Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act).