Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight – a sustainable pathway for NSW

To support the industry’s transition to a sustainable future and help meet NSW’s net zero emissions target by 2050, Transport released the Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy in October 2024. This policy provides a clear roadmap for decarbonising road and rail freight, ensuring the sector remains efficient while cutting emissions.

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Aerial view of a freight truck on Newell Highway

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A roadmap for decarbonisation

The Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy was developed through consultation with the NSW freight industry, vehicle manufacturers, service providers, and government agencies. This collaborative approach ensures the policy reflects the diverse needs and challenges of the freight sector while aligning with the NSW’s broader sustainability goals. 

The policy encourages government and industry to collaborate on innovative solutions and implement meaningful changes to how goods are moved across NSW. The policy focuses on both road and rail freight, outlining a phased approach to support the adoption of low and zero emission vehicles and technologies. Key actions include:

• short-term actions (0-2 years): Support trials of low and zero emission freight vehicles, improving access to charging and refuelling infrastructure, and providing guidance on best practices for emissions reduction
• medium-term actions (3-5 years): Expand infrastructure for zero emission vehicles, incentivising the uptake of cleaner technologies, and fostering collaboration across the supply chain
• long-term actions (5+ years): Drive the widespread adoption of zero emission freight vehicles and technologies, ensuring NSW’s freight network is sustainable and resilient for the future.

A shared responsibility

The transition to net zero emissions freight requires collaboration between government, industry, and the community. The Towards Net Zero Emissions Freight Policy provides a clear pathway for this transition, ensuring the freight industry continues to deliver for NSW while reducing its environmental footprint.

By working together, we can build a freight network that is efficient, reliable, and sustainable for future generations. This policy marks an important step towards a cleaner, greener future for NSW.