The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has welcomed ongoing investments into road and rail freight infrastructure projects announced in the Victorian Budget for 2024-25.
Amid a precarious economic environment characterised by persistent inflationary pressures and higher interest rates, the VTA says the 2024-25 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 and $237 million for works to support regional rail.
In what the VTA says is clearly a difficult budget, it’s pleased that funding commitments have been maintained for key road infrastructure projects under construction including North East Link and the West Gate Tunnel projects.
“This is the budget we had to have to start to reign in debt and in consideration of the persistent economic headwinds we face,” VTA CEO Peter Anderson says.
“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.”
The VTA also welcomed $964 million this year that will maintain the state’s road network and $100 million to repair flood-devastated roads, as well as $17 million to improve metro Melbourne roads and $62 million for regional road freight route upgrades.
Alongside key regional and freight rail funding, the $10.2 million camera technology technology enforcing truck bans on inner west roads drew praise from the VTA.
Victorian treasurer Tim Pallas will discuss the budget at length at a special VTA Treasurer’s Breakfast at The Hotel Windsor on Tuesday June 4.