The federal government has launched the National Freight Data Hub prototype website, which will contain essential information regarding freight travel and the transport industry.
The federal government announced a $16.5 million investment for the project in the 2021/22 budget, with funding to be distributed over four years to help develop the hub.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development
Michael McCormack said the data hub will enable the federal government to further understand the freight sector.
“Every Australian, everywhere, every day relies on a truck driver, which is why we need high-quality, easily accessible data to make sure the movement of goods and services is as efficient as possible, especially as Australia’s freight task grows,” McCormack said.
The data hub will aim to improve the efficiency, safety and resilience of the freight and transport sectors, with expectations the project will greatly contribute to the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy.
Congestion data will allow for drivers to make changes to their usual freight routes, Toll’s Head of Innovation Peter Carney said.
“This will enable road users and governments to develop strategies for managing the effects of congestion,” he said.
“The maps will assist drivers in planning their routes, because knowing where not to drive is as important as knowing where to drive.”
The project is being supported by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications, in conjunction with related industries.
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