THE NSW Government’s budget has outlined its priorities for the Illawarra region, announcing investments in health, education and transport.

In the budget, $20 million has been allocated towards investigating the extension of Memorial Drive and building the much-needed Bulli bypass.

Also, $277.8 million will be spent to replace the existing intersection of the Princes Highway and Mount Ousley Road at Fairy Meadow.

Other highlights for the northern suburbs include $3 million towards the construction of a new police station at Helensburgh in 2023/24, and $5 million over the next four years for refurbishments of fire stations in the Heathcote electorate, including at Helensburgh, Thirroul and Coledale.

The Minns Labor Government’s budget will also invest $15.5 million for a Rail Timetable Solution Program to improve the rail system.

NSW Minister for the Illawarra, Ryan Park said the budget delivers funding for services the region desperately needs.

“We’ll be upgrading hospitals up and down the coast,” he said.

“We’ve ensured that more than 60 nurses that were going to lose their positions will keep their positions because of Labor’s efforts in this year’s budget,” he said.

State MP for Heathcote Maryanne Stuart said the budget provided funding for essential services in her electorate, such as protecting the environment, transport, health and education.