The Australian Logistics Council (ALC) has released its 2025-26 Election Position Paper calling on all political parties to commit to a strong, coordinated and future-focused supply chain strategy heading into this year’s federal election and beyond.
The mounting pressures faced by existing supply chains are only set to increase, with Australia’s freight volumes set to soar by over a third (35 per cent) by 2040.
The ALC contends a firm commitment is needed from all political parties to prioritise supply chain modernisation as part of their economic and infrastructure policy platforms.
“We are at a crossroads,” ALC CEO Dr Hermione Parsons says. “We urge the next government to demonstrate leadership by committing to real, structural reforms that provide certainty for industry and deliver tangible benefits for all Australians.
“Freight is fundamental to national prosperity. It sustains industries, supports jobs, and underpins Australia’s economic resilience.
“But without a clear, national approach to modernisation and reform, the cost of inefficiency will continue to rise – affecting businesses, households, and our global standing.
The ALC collaborated with a broad range of stakeholders in the industry for the production of its Position Paper and outlines five essential national priorities in a unified industry voice:
- A national freight reset – Immediate release and implementation of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy Review, ensuring a fully integrated and modern freight system.
- Regulatory harmonisation and reform – A nationally consistent freight logistics approval framework and Heavy Vehicle Access System to remove regulatory roadblocks and improve efficiency.
- Workforce capability and diversity – A comprehensive workforce assessment, targeted education programs and strengthened industry diversity initiatives, particularly for women.
- Infrastructure investment and resilience – A shift towards strategic, long-term freight planning to prevent disruptions and improve climate resilience.
- A unified path to decarbonisation – Aligning state and federal freight emissions policies and investing in low-emission freight technology, renewable diesel, and expanded rail freight capacity.
“This is not just an industry concern – it’s a national economic priority,” Parsons continues.
“We need long-term solutions that support a productive, competitive and resilient freight sector.
“This is an opportunity for government, industry and stakeholders to work together in shaping the future of Australian logistics.”
The ALC encourages all political parties to engage with the Position Paper and collaborate with industry to develop a unified freight strategy.
The full paper can be found here.
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