The NSW Government released the draft Illawarra Shoalhaven Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan (SRITP) on Tuesday, a 20-year vision to guide the region’s transport future and support one of the most strategically important and fast-growing regions in the state.

And the government wants the community to have their say on how the region's transport future should be shaped.

For the first time in over a decade, the Illawarra and Shoalhaven communities will be able to view an integrated long-term plan that sets out priorities based on evidence, data and extensive consultation with more than 40 stakeholders, including councils, members of parliament and community groups.

The draft plan identifies a range of short, medium and long-term actions across public transport, active transport, roads and freight to support the region’s population growth and changing needs.

“The Illawarra is growing fast, and our transport network needs to grow with it. This draft Plan gives our community a clear view of what the next twenty years can look like," Minister for the Illawarra and the South Coast Ryan Park said.

“This work is about helping people get to work, school, the hospital and the beach more easily while keeping freight moving to support local jobs and industry.

“For locals, it means more reliable public transport, safer roads and stronger connections between our towns, suburbs and regional centres.

“I encourage the community to take a look and share feedback so we can keep shaping a strong transport future for the region.”

Community members can view the draft Plan and provide comment until Monday, 9 February at www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/sritp/illawarra-shoalhaven.

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the draft Plan would lay "important groundwork to support the Illawarra and Shoalhaven’s fast-growing community".

“As a major and fast expanding centre our community deserves transport planning for the future," the Wollongong MP said.

“By working closely with councils and community groups, we are making sure the long-term vision for our region is coordinated, evidence based and ready for delivery.”

A community survey has been designed to help people provide feedback easily, and more detailed submissions can be uploaded or sent to [email protected] or PO Box 477, Wollongong NSW 2520.

Minister for Regional Transport and Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison said a well planned, people-focused transport network was needed for the growing region.

“We heard loud and clear that people want more travel choices, safer roads and better connections between towns and regional centres. This draft Plan reflects those priorities," she said.

During the public feedback period, Transport for NSW staff will also be out across the region speaking directly with residents at local pop-up sessions.

South Coast MP Liza Butler said local communities had been calling for safer roads and stronger connections between towns for many years.

“Reliable transport options make a real difference whether you live in Ulladulla, Nowra or our smaller coastal villages.”

Shellharbour MP Anna Watson said the draft Plan represented “an important milestone for our region".

“The plan sets out achievable actions that can improve public transport, strengthen safety and make life easier for the community.”

Kiama MP Member for Kiama, Katelin McInerney added that with the expected rapid rise in population, the transport network needs to keeps pace with that change.

“This draft Plan outlines practical ideas to improve public transport, boost safety and make it easier for people to access work, study and essential services.”