The NSW Nationals are a political party focused on advocating for the interests of regional, rural, and remote areas in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Their policies and political stance are shaped by traditional Australian values such as fairness, equality, and mateship.
These are incorporated into the party's foundational 'We Believe' statement, and are also reflected through the democratic processes at their Annual General Conference where grassroots members contribute to policy formulation.
The NSW Nationals aim to enhance the state's transportation network, which is critical for the economic vitality of regional areas. This involves significant investments in upgrading and expanding road, rail, air, and sea ports.
The objective is to facilitate smoother transport of goods and services, thereby boosting local economies and connecting communities more effectively.
Recognizing the importance of the resources sector to regional economies, the NSW Nationals support sustainable practices in fishing, forestry, and mining. These industries are seen as pillars of many regional communities, providing essential employment and contributing to the economic stability of these areas.
Agriculture is another cornerstone of the NSW Nationals' policy focus. The party supports a wide range of agricultural practices from farming to pastoral efforts, aiming to boost productivity and sustainability.
Initiatives include research and development funding, support for innovative farming techniques, and assistance in accessing national and international markets.
Tourism is promoted as a key economic driver, with the NSW Nationals advocating for enhanced marketing of regional NSW’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Small businesses, particularly those in remote areas, receive support through grants, training programs, and infrastructure improvements aimed at fostering a conducive business environment.
To combat connectivity issues prevalent in non-urban areas, the NSW Nationals have focused on reducing the number of mobile blackspots and improving overall telecommunications infrastructure. This includes significant funding for new mobile towers and enhancements to existing communications technology.
Energy policies focus on making energy more affordable and sustainable for regional populations. Initiatives include investments in renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind, as well as improvements in energy efficiency for homes and businesses.
The NSW Nationals emphasize the importance of affordable housing to ensure that residents of regional, rural, and remote areas have access to comfortable and economically viable living conditions. Policies are designed to increase housing supply and affordability through incentives for builders and buyers.
Policies in Aboriginal affairs include recognizing Indigenous Australians as traditional custodians of the land and improving their representation and voice in Parliament. There is a strong focus on enhancing community services, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting economic opportunities for Indigenous populations.
The party invests in environmental conservation through supporting Landcare NSW and other initiatives that focus on sustainable land and water management practices. Conservation efforts also include funding for research into the preservation of rare and endangered flora and fauna.
Water security is a critical issue, particularly in light of climate change and its impacts on regional areas. The NSW Nationals support the construction and expansion of dams and other water conservation infrastructure to ensure sustainable water supplies for agriculture and domestic use.
Acknowledging the impact of climate change, the party supports initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and adapting to changing environmental conditions. This includes investment in alternative energy sources and the implementation of strategies to cope with more extreme and variable weather patterns.
Investment in regional centers is viewed as vital for providing essential services and supporting local economies. Community safety is enhanced through support for emergency services and initiatives that promote social cohesion and community resilience.
The NSW Nationals advocate for greater access to diverse artistic and cultural experiences, recognizing the importance of cultural development for enhancing the quality of life in regional areas. The NSW Nationals’ policies reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing the unique challenges faced by regional, rural, and remote areas, focusing on economic development, community service improvement, environmental conservation, and cultural enrichment.
The National Party Of Nsw is also known as National, National Party, Nationals.