In complete contradiction of each other and an obvious buck-passing of their responsibility, the State and Federal Liberal Governments have refused to address the concerns of Ingleburn residents seeking noise barriers adjacent to the southern railway line.

Member for Macquarie Fields, Anoulack Chanthivong MP, said that while the Liberal Governments were disputing each other’s responsibility for the situation, residents were left having to contend with the screeching noise of freight and passenger rail operations.

“Sadly, it appears that both Liberal Governments have completely washed their hands of any responsibility on this matter and left residents in limbo,” Mr Chanthivong said.

“I have received conflicting correspondence from the State and Federal Ministers on this issue, both pointing the finger at each other and taking zero responsibility. It’s ridiculous and demonstrates that both Liberal Governments have stooped to a new low where incompetence reigns supreme.

“But the Liberal Governments’ lack of action isn’t about to silence residents, many of who have lived for generations in the area and are demanding that something be done about it – and now!”

Residents signed a petition last year calling on the Government to install noise barriers adjacent to the southern railway line between Gordon Avenue and James Street in Ingleburn. Newer suburbs in the area were provided with noise barriers prior to the construction of homes.

In a letter dated 2 October 2015, State Minister for Transport Andrew Constance states that the location in question is primarily the responsibility of the Commonwealth. Contradicting this advice is a letter dated 21 December 2015 from the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Warren Truss, which states the matter is the responsibility of the State Government.

“Let’s be real here. Both Liberal Governments are buck-passing and residents’ concerns are being completely ignored as a result,” Mr Chanthivong said.