The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has welcomed progress on the Port Rail Transformation Project.
It follows the Victorian Government’s announcement of $125 million for the next stage of works.
Under the package unveiled by Minister for Ports and Freight, Melissa Horne, a new Coode Road on-dock rail terminal connecting with the Swanson Dock East International Container Terminal will be constructed.
A new road will also be built to allow for better movement of shipping containers and provide an east-west link within the Swanson Dock Precinct, meaning trucks will no longer need to exit to Footscray Road.
VTA CEO, Peter Anderson, said the project will provide benefits for Australia’s entire transport system.
“This project is not about reducing the work load for road freight operators; it’s about creating a more efficient intermodal transport system that has benefits for operators right throughout the supply chain,” he said.
“Every investment that creates opportunities to increase our freight capacity means more work for road freight operators because as I’ve always said, ships, planes and trains carry freight but only trucks can deliver.
“The port rail project will free up road freight operators to take on work that has better margins, and at the same time reduce congestion at the port gate for heavy vehicles moving in and out of the precinct.”
Construction crews have prepared underground services and drainage, along with foundation works for the new rail tracks and associated rail infrastructure.
The project is schedules for completion mid 2023, and according to Anderson, will result in major supply-chain efficiencies benefitting producers, transport operators and exporters servicing the Port of Melbourne.
