The Victorian Government has announced a $126 million rail boost for regional Victoria with a focus on improving the state’s rail freight network that will be funded by a $83 million freight investment package.
The $126 million rail investment announced on Monday July 20 from the Victorian Government is part of the economic response to the coronavirus crisis.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne and Minister for Public Transport Ben Carroll said the upgrades will be vital to support regional communities, create jobs and boost economic activity in regional Victoria.
An $83 million freight improvement package will focus on replacing sleepers, repairing ballasts and renewing level crossing equipment along almost 400 kilometres of critical freight-only rail lines.
The works will provide regional growers and exporters with more viable freight options as the shift from road to rail continues, helping farmers access key domestic and international markets.
The maintenance blitz is a key part of the government’s $328 million investment in freight, public transport and roads upgrades.
“These investments in our rail freight network are part of our ongoing commitment to boost our export power and support regional jobs,” Melissa said.
“The upgrades will mean produce can be transported from farm to port much more quickly, opening up key markets to Victorian farmers.”
Ben said the government is building on its unprecedented investment in regional rail, and this maintenance blitz will be a boost for local jobs and keep Victoria moving.
“This investment will help to improve our regional rail network and ensure we provide services passengers can rely on,” he said.
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