The Victorian Government is investing in the future of regional transport, with new funding to review and improve the Seymour freight network to meet growing freight demand.
The $90,000 Seymour Freight Network Study, jointly funded by the Allan Labor Government and Mitchell Shire Council, will analyse freight movements around the town, including routes connecting to the Hume Freeway and Goulburn Valley Highway. The study aims to improve freight efficiency, safety and local infrastructure planning.
Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne says the investment will help regional Victoria prepare for significant growth in freight volumes.
“By investing in projects like the Seymour Freight Network Study, we’re future-proofing the freight industry and ensuring jobs and economic security for our regional Victorian towns,” Horne says.
She says the government’s $45,000 contribution through the Flexible Local Transport Solutions Program will support long-term planning.
“Maintaining and investing in our freight network ensures that goods are getting where they need to go, and that we’re creating jobs across the state.”
The freight and logistics industry contributes $36 billion annually to Victoria’s economy and employs around 260,000 people. Freight volumes are projected to rise from 360 million tonnes in 2014 to nearly 900 million tonnes by 2051 – a challenge that demands forward-looking infrastructure and smarter planning.
Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes says the Seymour freight network is vital for local jobs and connectivity. “This investment will help ensure Seymour has the right infrastructure in place to support local jobs, industries and the safe movement of freight now and into the future,” Symes says.
Mitchell Shire Mayor John Dougall says the partnership with the Victorian Government will help the Council make informed decisions.
“We thank the Victorian Government for partnering with Council to fund this important study. Combining our local knowledge with expert analysis will allow us to make informed decisions that improve safety, efficiency, and connectivity for freight movements through Seymour,” Dougall says.
The study’s results will inform future investments in road upgrades and freight infrastructure, supporting regional businesses and communities as demand for freight increases.