National Freight Strategy to focus on productivity

Federal Transport and Infrastructure Minister Anthony Albanese has called on the transport industry to become more involved in forming the shape of the industry in the future as he released the draft National Freight Strategy for consultation.

“With freight volumes nationwide set to double between 2007 and 2030, there’s a clear and urgent need for national leadership and long term planning to make sure our transport infrastructure can cope with this much greater demand,” Mr Albanese said.
 
“That’s why we commissioned Infrastructure Australia and the National Transport Commission (NTC) to develop the nation’s first ever National Freight Strategy setting out a long term program of reform and investment,” he said.
 
“However, such a strategy cannot be imposed unilaterally. Ultimately, it will only endure and deliver results when all governments and industry have signed up to its vision and the specific tasks required of them. For our part, the strategy will assist in determining future priorities for federal infrastructure investment.”
 
The minister said that in addition to giving the community a chance to have their say, Infrastructure Australia will continue working with state and territory authorities, councils and industry bodies to build “a consensus for action” before submitting the final Strategy to COAG for endorsement.
 
To obtain a copy of the draft strategy and provide feedback, go to www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au. Submissions close at the end of April.
 
Summary of the draft National Freight Strategy:
Based on the identified weaknesses with Australia’s existing infrastructure and regulatory regime, the draft strategy proposes the following actions:
• One national, integrated system
• Effective local planning
• Long-term, targeted funding
• Smarter regulations
• More accountability

Read more here.