The Dapto community has shown overwhelming support for the construction of south-facing ramps on the M1 Princes Motorway, with 97 percent of over 4,000 respondents endorsing the proposal.

Transport for NSW conducted a comprehensive consultation between December 2023 and February 2024, gathering 3,851 survey responses, 318 map contributions, and 63 formal submissions. The feedback highlighted the community’s desire for enhanced safety, efficiency, and connectivity between Dapto, its surrounding suburbs, and the motorway.

Minister for Roads John Graham acknowledged the strong community backing:

“The community has spoken, and it is loudly in favour of the south-facing ramps. The NSW Government has committed $10 million to the planning now underway.

“The M1 Princes Motorway is a critical link between Sydney, the Illawarra region, and NSW South Coast, a vital connection for commuters, freight, and recreation.”

The proposal’s popularity stems from its potential to ease congestion and provide direct motorway access, reducing the need for detours through the busy Dapto CBD.

Member for Wollongong Paul Scully praised the public’s involvement:

“The feedback response rate from the community exceeded expectations, and I would like to thank everyone who responded, as this will be invaluable to shaping the project moving forward.

“The 4,232 pieces of feedback received during consultation will help determine which option is the best fit for our rapidly growing community.”

Early planning efforts include strategic modelling to identify potential ramp locations and assess impacts on the local and broader road network. An options report, incorporating technical investigations and community insights, is expected by mid-2025.

Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson emphasised the urgency of the project:

“The Illawarra-Shoalhaven region is rapidly growing, but local motorists are forced to travel along the Princes Highway through the Dapto CBD, causing traffic delays and impacting local small businesses.

“The community consultation report is an important step in getting work on new on/off ramps underway, so Dapto residents can more easily access the M1 motorway.”

Transport for NSW will continue to engage with the community as the project progresses. The Consultation Summary Report and further information are available at

Transport NSW’s project page.

This project is seen as a significant development for the Illawarra region, promising improved mobility and reduced congestion for its residents.