NSW’s independent Freight Policy Reform Panel has delivered its Interim Directions report, which makes key recommendations to support and efficient logistics supply chain in the state.
Analysis has shown freight volumes across NSW are expected to increase by 26 per cent between 2021 and 2041, with demand set to skyrocket by 40 per cent in Sydney alone over the same time period.
The Interim Directions report looks at the end-to-end freight logistics chain with a focus on both industry and network policy. Key issues outlined include decarbonisation, planning and protection of industrial land, using data and information to inform decision making and addressing industry skills shortages.
“Thanks to the excellent work of the Freight Policy Reform Advisory Panel, we’re taking another step forward to help direct and finalise our plan for supporting efficient freight transport into the future,” NSW transport minister Jo Haylen says.
“What the panel has recognised is the continued need to look at end-to-end freight transport as a whole system and not as individual modes, including making sure freight considerations are central to transport planning, prioritisation and investment decisions.
“The panel’s recommendations will shape a reform agenda to address feedback from industry on skills shortages, rail access and integration across the freight system.”
The paper also makes recommendations on network issues such as pricing, infrastructure resilience and the future of ports, rail and road within the freight system. Specific actions include:
- Addressing data gaps in freight movements to support future infrastructure investments.
- Better planning for freight corridors and industrial spaces, including prioritising the final business case and planning for the Western Sydney Freight Line.
- Enabling 600 metre rail shuttles between Port Botany and Sydney’s intermodals for more efficient freight movements.
- The finalisation and implementation of the NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy to optimise use of the road network for modern heavy vehicles.
- The improvement of access and coordination between rail networks, including an immediate review of the NSW Rail Access Undertaking.
Consultation is continuing. An information session is set to be held on Monday, September 23, while online submissions will be accepted until Wednesday, October 23.
Subscribe to the weekly Owner//Driver newsletter here.