The future of freight is front of mind up north, as government and industry come together to support the development of the next Queensland Freight Action Plan.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey said the plan was key to supporting freight across the state to keep Queensland moving.
“Queensland’s freight network is absolutely vital to our economy,” Bailey said.
“That’s why we continue to invest heavily in key freight corridors through our $27.5 billion road and transport plan.
Through a Queensland Ministerial Freight Council workshop, Queensland Transport are pushing forward on developing its next Freight Action Plan for 2023-2025. Input received will ensure the future plan is fit for purpose and meets the needs of both industry and Government.
The online survey will be available until 31 March next year (2022), when consultation will close.
“Freight volumes in Queensland will only continue to increase, which is why planning is required to improve efficiency and reliability in the sector,” said Bailey.
Bailey said a number of key achievements had been made over the past two years, as outlined in the 2020-2022 Freight Action Plan.
“The previous plan has proven to be a successful driver of innovation and investment in project and initiatives across the road, rail, sea and air,” he said.
“On the road, we’ve locked in $500 million in joint funding for upgrades to the Inland Freight Route roads and frozen heavy vehicle registration costs.
“We’ve also invested $80 million over four years to incentivise more freight onto the Mount Isa rail line while also upgrading the track infrastructure to make it more reliable for industry. At our ports, we’ve undertaken master planning for Gladstone and Townsville and invested $21 million for Backing Queensland Maritime Jobs across the state.
Bailey said the Queensland Government would continue to support the industry into the future through infrastructure and incentives.
“We are committed to working with and learning from our industry partners to keep improving freight operations around the state,” he said.
“Despite increased volumes and pressures, Queensland’s freight industry kept pace which has seen minimal impact to supply levels across the state.
All Queenslanders can have their say on the Freight Action Plan here.