The Andrews Labor Government has secured the future of the Overland rail service to Adelaide, despite the Federal Government slashing its contribution to the service.
Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan, announced today that the Labor Government will invest $10.35 million to keep the service running until at least the end of 2018.
The Overland runs between Melbourne and Adelaide, and provides a vital transport link for communities in Western Victoria including Ararat, Stawell, Horsham, Nhill and Bordertown.
Currently the Overland is funded by the Victorian and South Australian Governments, with the Federal Government providing a subsidy for concessionary travel on the service.
Both the Victorian and South Australian Governments have now committed funding for the service until the end of 2018.
However, the Federal Government has announced it will not continue its funding for the service beyond 30 June this year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport, Jacinta Allan
“The Andrews Labor Government is securing the future of rail services between Melbourne and Adelaide, despite the Federal Liberals and Nationals slashing their subsidy to the Overland.”
“Our more than $10 million investment will ensure trains keep running until at least the end of 2018.”
“Pressure is now on the Federal Liberal and National Government to explain why they have slashed funding to the Overland.”
“I call on the Liberals and Nationals to stand up for the people they represent and maintain funding for the Overland, which services regional centres in Western Victoria including Ararat, Horsham, Nhill and Bordertown.”
Quotes attributable to Great Southern Rail’s Chief Executive Officer, Chris Tallent
“This is a fantastic result for Victorians and South Australians alike. We can now offer certainty about this important transport link for our passengers.”
“Great Southern Rail will open new bookings for The Overland from today.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020