rising transport costs and staff cuts are pushing many operations toward collapse. Business owners in Little Hartley and the wider Lithgow region are calling on the Transport for NSW and the Government of New South Wales to provide urgent financial assistance as the closure of the Great Western Highway at Victoria Pass continues to disrupt trade. The highway was shut in early March after engineers detected cracking and movement in the historic Mitchell's Causeway bridge, an 1830s convict-built structure.

The closure has diverted vehicles away from Little Hartley, cutting off the steady stream of passing motorists that many local businesses depend on. At a packed community meeting attended by around 100 residents, business owner Shannon Kutz said his power tool shop has become a "dead end" with virtually no through traffic. He said his firewood delivery business has also been hit by longer detours and higher fuel costs, forcing the business to operate day to day and raising concerns about whether it can continue.

Several businesses have already reduced staff hours or shed employees as revenue declines. Community members have questioned why a dedicated support package has not yet been announced, despite the closure entering its third month. The NSW government says it is continuing to assess options for financial assistance while maintaining communication with affected residents and businesses.

Local operators warn that without immediate relief, more businesses in Little Hartley may be forced to close permanently.