The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with its commitment to lease the Port of Melbourne to support the funding of the removal of our 50 worst level crossings.
This afternoon, the Delivering Victorian Infrastructure (Port of Melbourne Lease Transaction) Bill 2015 passed through the Legislative Assembly.
Lease proceeds will go to the Victorian Transport Fund (VTF), to be used to support projects like removing our 50 worst level crossings, building Melbourne Metro, the West Gate Distributor and other important transport initiatives.
Removing level crossings will create thousands of construction jobs and get Victorians home safer and sooner.
The VTF will also support projects that help relieve traffic congestion and improve access to the port. It’s a boost for jobs, industry, our transport system, and it protects our AAA credit rating.
The Opposition, breaking its promise it made to Victorians at the last election to support the lease of the Port, voted against the Bill.
The Bill will now make its way to the Legislative Council for consideration.
Quotes attributable to Treasurer, Tim Pallas
“Before the election, we promised that a Labor Government would lease the Port of Melbourne, and use the proceeds to provide crucial infrastructure for Victorians. We are keeping our promises.
“Leasing the port means we can pay for the removal of our 50 worst level crossings, create thousands of jobs, get Victorians home safer and sooner and still protect our AAA credit rating.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports, Luke Donnellan
“The lease will make our port even better, increasing efficiencies and competitiveness, and reinforce Victoria’s position as the freight and logistics capital of Australia.”
“The Victorian Transport Fund will support projects that help relieve traffic congestion and improve access to the port.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020