RDA Illawarra supported the concept of a national land freight network which focused not only on current transport and distribution patterns, but is forward-thinking and allows for future growth in the transport logistics sector.

RDA Illawarra also supported the development of a strategy which incorporates long term freight needs and endorsed the discussion paper’s emphasis on including Port Kembla as a nationally significant regional networked port and adding Port Kembla to the national land freight network.

In the inquiry into the National Broadband Network, RDA Illawarra advocated that the NBN has considerable capacity to contribute to economic growth, job creation and social inclusion in the region.

Comments were made in relation to the following areas:

• Delivery of government services and programs
• Achieving health outcomes
• Improving the educational resources and training available for teachers and students
• The management of Australia's built and natural resources and environmental sustainability
• Impacting regional growth and employment opportunities
• Impacting business efficiencies and revenues, particularly for small and medium business, and Australia's export market
• Interaction with research and developments and related innovation investments
• Facilitating community and social benefits

RDA Illawarra made a submission on the NSW Draft Freight and Ports Plan to the NSW Government in March 2018. As a result, the Plan now includes upgrades to Picton Road and the SWIRL proposal which are included in the Implementation Plan (3.2 Deliver new infrastructure to increase road freight capacity).