- Published:
- Thursday 2 April 2026 at 9:00 am
Labor is making it easier to move goods across Victoria, by bringing freight closer to the port while reducing truck traffic on local streets.
One of the world’s largest logistics companies – MEDLOG – has signed on as a major tenant of the former Melbourne market site in West Melbourne.
Partnering with the Port of Melbourne, MEDLOG will redevelop part of the 29-hectare site, enabling container storage next to the port – supporting more efficient freight movements and reducing truck trips through Melbourne’s inner west, including Yarraville, Tottenham, Brooklyn and Seddon.
By bringing container storage closer to the port, the project will reduce the need for trucks to travel across Melbourne’s inner west – cutting congestion and improving local roads.
This builds on the benefits of the West Gate Tunnel and No-Truck Zones, which have already taken thousands of trucks off residential streets and improved safety, air quality and noise for local communities.
The former Melbourne Market site – equivalent in size to more than 14 MCGs – is underpinned by approximately $500 million in private investment across the site and is being developed with industry to support Victoria’s growing freight task.
The Port of Melbourne remains Australia’s busiest container port, handling more than a third of the nation’s container trade.
Victoria’s freight sector contributes more than $36 billion to the economy each year, supporting around 240,000 jobs and moving approximately 440 million tonnes of freight annually.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne
“This is about keeping goods moving while taking pressure off local streets – cutting truck traffic, improving safety and strengthening Victoria’s supply chains.”
“By bringing freight closer to the port, we’re making the system more efficient and delivering real benefits for
communities, the freight industry and businesses right across the state.”
Quote attributable to Member for Footscray Katie Hall
“This project will reduce truck movements on local roads and make a real difference for families in the inner west, with safer streets and better connections for our community.”
Quotes attributable to Port of Melbourne CEO Saul Cannon
“With approximately $500 million in private investment planned across the whole precinct and a significant uplift in jobs and economic activity, this redevelopment is a strategic investment in Victoria’s future that will help deliver a stronger and more resilient supply chain for the state.”
Quotes attributable to MEDLOG SA Chairman Giuseppe Prudente
“This investment reflects MEDLOG’s long‑term commitment to building resilient, port‑connected infrastructure that supports global trade and local economies.”
Quotes attributable to VTA CEO Peter Anderson
“By utilising this site for freight activity, transport operators will benefit from reduced congestion, improved access, and fewer avoidable delays that often lead to additional costs and compliance risks.”