Victorian Budget A Mixed Bag for Rail
Rail Freight Alliance today welcomed key infrastructure initiatives in the 2017 Victorian State Budget including upgrades and investment as part of the Regional Rail Revival.
Rail Freight Alliance Executive Officer, Reid Mather, said that the Rail Freight Alliance welcomed the Government’s investment in rail and rail infrastructure.
“We welcome the Budget’s investment in track maintenance and upgrades as a much-needed initiative for Victoria’s rail network,” Mr Mather said
“In addition, the Rail Freight Alliance welcomes initiatives earmarked as part of the Government’s Regional Rail Revival including upgrades within the Gippsland region.
“These are vital investments which will improve rail freight connectivity and support the economic security of our regions. It is, however, disappointing that the Government has chosen to play needless politics with this issue and make these projects contingent on Federal support from the Asset Recycling agreement.
“As a centerpiece of the State Budget, you would assume that the project had iron-clad support from the State Government.
“Our rail network plays a pivotal role in the Victorian economy. What happens if this Federal-State impasse cannot be resolved?
“We simply can’t have this level of uncertainty hanging over these projects. The Treasurer must give an absolute commitment to delivering this centerpiece investment of his Budget or risk a huge loss of faith in his Government.”
ENDS
Media Contact: Rail Freight Alliance Executive Officer, Reid Mather – 0428 772 264
