The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) commended the ongoing investments in road and rail freight infrastructure as outlined in the 2024-25 State Budget.
Amid a precarious economic environment characterised by persistent inflationary pressures and higher interest rates, the VTA said the 2024-25 State Budget commits the Victorian Government to maintaining or growing investments in the road and rail infrastructure used by the freight and logistics industry, including $6.6 billion for road maintenance over 10 years.
“In what is clearly a difficult Budget, the VTA is pleased that funding commitments have been maintained for key road infrastructure projects under construction including North East Link and the West Gate Tunnel projects,” said VTA CEO, Peter Anderson.
The key measures of the Budget include:
$964 million to maintain the state’s road network
$133 million to support regional rail networks
$104 million for works to keep rail freight moving across Victoria
$100 million to repair flood-devastated roads, including pavements, infrastructure, and fixing landslips
$62 million for upgrades to make regional roads safer and improve freight routes
$10.2 million for new camera technology to enforce legislated truck bans on inner west roads
“This is the budget we had to have to start to reign in debt and in consideration of the persistent economic headwinds we face,” Anderson said.
“While it is understandable some smaller projects have been delayed, we welcome commitments to continue to invest in road and rail freight infrastructure, including transformative projects like the North East Link, which is essential to connect manufacturers, farmers and growers in the south east to markets and other infrastructure in the north.
“Through its commitment to road and rail infrastructure investment and maintenance, the Government has recognised the importance of the freight industry to maintaining supply chain continuity and integrity.”
In other news, Treasurer of Victoria, Tim Pallas, will address the VTA’s Treasurer Breakfast this year.
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