Queensland, Commonwealth fund $1.5m study into Acacia Ridge link to port
The Australian and Queensland governments will jointly fund a $1.5 million feasibility study into ways to improve rail freight connections to the Port of Brisbane from the Acacia Ridge Intermodal Terminal.
The study will examine the possibility of a dedicated freight link from the Port to Acacia Ridge, which Deputy Prime Minister and federal infrastructure minister Michael McCormack would be critical in supporting south-east Queensland’s continued economic growth and development.
“Significant analysis was undertaken as part of the 2015 Inland Rail Business Case which found the existing line could continue to service the port until 2030,” he said.
“The new joint study will now assess a range of immediate and long-term options to ensure freight continues to move efficiently.”
Queensland transport minister Mark Bailey says that, in addition to the feasibility of improved rail freight connections to the port, the study would also look at demand and existing infrastructure capacity.
“Clearly, we need to understand what these projects will mean for the movement of rail freight,” Bailey adds.
“The outcomes of the study will help to inform the need for a future business case and corridor protection, if required.”
The study, which will seek the input of the Port of Brisbane, Brisbane City Council, the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority, Queensland Rail and the Australian Rail Track Corporation, is expected to be completed in the next 12 months.