Super funds, lotteries could fund infrastructure in NSW

13/06/2012 - State superannuation funds and lottery revenue could be used to fund major infrastructure projects across NSW.

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Handing down the budget on Tuesday, Treasurer Mike Baird said the state government had begun discussions with State Super, an independent body, about "infrastructure opportunities".

"We have started significant discussions with State Super," he told reporters on Tuesday.

"I will stress that it's a decision that ultimately will be with them.

"When you look at the amount of money they spend on overseas infrastructure, it would be a logical thing to look at the opportunities in this state."

State Super has $2 billion invested in Australian and international infrastructure projects, including domestic ports, airports and gas pipelines.

It also invests some of its assets in the UK and electricity assets in the US.

NSW Treasury argues investment by State Super would fund major building projects without raising the state's debt burden.

The state government is also considering securing revenue from NSW Lotteries to fund infrastructure.

"It's a serious consideration we'll be working on over the next few months," Baird said.

The NSW government has pledged to spend $61.8 billion over four years on infrastructure.

Big ticket items over that period include $3.3 billion for the North West Rail Link, $1.4 billion for the South West Rail Link and $1.5 billion to duplicate the deadly Pacific Highway by the end of 2016.

Baird has also indicated the state government would start planning for a new Sydney motorway.

It has also committed itself to building a new Sydney Convention Centre, an inner-west light rail link, and widening of the M5 motorway to southwest Sydney.

Source: AAP

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