The Queensland and federal governments have released joint project updates for the rail freight links to the Port of Brisbane.
Port of Brisbane planning investigations included exploring opportunities to improve freight rail connectivity to the Port of Brisbane.
The governments say the investigations found forecast freight demand may warrant upgrades to the existing rail network in the coming years, but that a dedicated freight corridor is a longer-term opportunity.
Building on the freight demand analysis undertaken to date, investigations are now underway for potential short, medium and longer-term improvements to the freight rail network between the proposed future Inland Rail intermodal terminal at Ebenezer and the Port of Brisbane.
“The federal government is committed to funding the development of major project business cases and engaging with stakeholders on strategically significant projects,” federal transport minister Catherine King says.
“We continue to work with the Queensland government to consider passenger and freight needs in the corridor between Salisbury and Beaudesert and investigate efficient and reliable freight access to the Port of Brisbane.”
Queensland transport and main roads minister Bart Mellish says joint work is also continuing on the South-East Queensland Inland Rail Intermodal Terminal business case.
“High quality public transport infrastructure will play a critical role in servicing growing and new communities in South-East Queensland,” Mellish says.
“Together with the federal government, we have undertaken planning and confirmed heavy rail is the optimal transport mode to connect communities between Salisbury and Beaudesert, with the next step being for government to consider corridor protection.
“In partnership with the federal government, we are also continuing to undertake investigations to ensure efficient and reliable freight rail access to the Port of Brisbane.”
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