Refining our construction requirements: Narromine to Narrabri section
Since receiving planning approvals in early 2024, we’ve gained a better understanding of the Narromine to Narrabri section’s alignment. As a result, we’ve reviewed and refined our construction requirements. Some of these changes will require a planning approval modification, which we intend to submit to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) in 2026.
October 8, 2025
Visualisation of the Inland Rail alignment heading north on the outskirts of Narrabri.
Background
The Narromine to Narrabri section received planning approval from the NSW Government in February 2023 and was approved by the Australian Government under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 in January 2024.
Under NSW planning rules, applicants may seek approval to modify a planning consent at any time. Modifications may be necessary to improve project design or adjust consent conditions. The process varies depending on the scale and nature of the proposed changes and any statutory requirements. DPHI will assess and determine any modifications.
Upcoming planning modification
We’re preparing a planning modification for submission to DPHI in mid 2026. The proposed changes include:
- Additional borrow pit sites to optimise earthwork operations across the Narromine to Narrabri alignment
- Revised locations for two temporary workforce accommodation facilities between Narromine and Narrabri
- A reduced construction footprint to lower biodiversity offset requirements.
Potential new workforce accommodation locations have been identified because they offer better site conditions and avoid threatened flora and fauna habitats. They also provide greater community benefits compared to the originally approved accommodation sites.
Following an assessment of sites in Narrabri and in Narromine using a multi-criteria analysis, one workers accommodation site will be selected in each town.
Before submitting the modification, our team will engage extensively with community and key stakeholders, including local councils. The consultation process will follow a similar approach to the exhibition of an Environmental Impact Statement, including public information sessions and one-on-one meetings.
Once the modification is lodged, the community will have another opportunity to provide feedback through a submission process managed by DPHI.
Have questions or concerns? Please contact the Stakeholder Engagement Team on 1800 732 761.
