The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has welcomed the release of the Infrastructure Priority List (IPL) and its recognition of rail as a critical part of Australia’s future infrastructure network.
The IPL is Infrastructure Australia’s evidence-based counsel to the Federal Government on the highest-priority proposals that should be considered for investment over the next 10 years.
Each proposal on the IPL aligns with one of five investment priorities that represent areas where Australian Government investment would deliver national benefit, identified in Infrastructure Australia’s 2025 Annual Budget Statement.
This year’s report highlighted the growing need to invest in both passenger and freight rail in order to support population growth, improve national productivity and strengthen connections between communities, industries, and key economic centres.
The ARA appreciated the report’s focus on high productivity freight networks and high-capacity transport for growing cities, including the identification of key rail projects to deliver on these priorities.
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“Rail is a key driver of Australia’s economic growth and sustainable development,” said Caroline Wilkie, ARA Chief Executive Officer.
“The ARA is pleased to see Infrastructure Australia’s recognition that strategic and coordinated investment is essential to unlock the full potential of rail freight as part of a productive and sustainable national network.”
The IPL also confirmed a focus on ports capacity and connectivity, in addition to delivering on net zero targets.
“The ARA also welcomes the ambition to increase public transport’s mode share to support improved housing, liveability and net zero outcomes,” Wilkie said.
“This requires a continued focus on network expansion as well as ongoing upgrades to the current rail passenger network.”
Wilkie finally welcomed a strong focus on the preservation of rail corridors to ensure the continued expansion of the network to meet future needs.
“Getting these decisions right now matters,” she said.
“We have seen in recent years the transformative impact that well planned rail investment can have on our economy and community.
“Australia must continue to invest in rail to ensure the infrastructure network can continue to meet our long term needs and act as a genuine catalyst for growth and development.”
The ARA looks forward to working with governments and industry on the priorities identified in the report.
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