The Andrews Labor Government is calling on leading rail freight and industry representatives to join forces to boost capacity of Victoria’s rail freight sector as part of a new Rail Freight Working Group.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne and Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan today announced the working group, which will bring members of the freight and primary industries, as well as government agencies, together to focus on Victoria’s rail freight network priorities.
The working group will facilitate further communication between government and industry to progress key projects and deliver the best return on Victoria’s infrastructure investments.
Working group members will include Victoria’s Rural Assistance Commissioner – who will chair the group, and representatives from the Victorian Farmers Federation, key freight organisations and government bodies including the Department of Transport, VicTrack, V/Line and relevant ports.
Continued investment in rail freight infrastructure across Victoria will drive economic growth – creating important regional jobs and providing a major boost to the state’s transport industry, agricultural sector and regional communities.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Public Transport Melissa Horne
“This new group will give operators and farmers a voice at the table as we continue investing in important Victorian rail freight projects to boost our export power and support regional jobs.”
“Our working group will look at the entire freight supply chain – from farm to port – and make it easier for producers to get Victorian goods to the world.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Transport Infrastructure Jacinta Allan
“We’re working with industry experts to shape the future of Victoria’s rail freight industry, building its capacity and supporting Victoria’s vital export sector.”
Quote attributable to Rail Freight Working Group Chair Peter Tuohey
“We’re keen to be involved in this great opportunity to work with Government and industry experts to push forward with key rail projects for Victoria.”
Reviewed 30 July 2020