The Victorian government has revealed the Melbourne Airport Rail Link (MARL) project has reached a critical milestone, with an independent chair appointed to the steering committee.
Merren McArthur has been appointed to the role, leading the steering committee.
The provision of a steering committee came following an agreement between the federal and state governments, as well as Melbourne Airport, earlier this year, which will allow senior officials from each organisation to join the committee and progress the project.
In her role, McArthur will be able to foster collaboration on the project, allowing parties to work together to develop a pathway for the project to be delivered.
“Ms McArthur brings the critical experience in leadership, governance and risk management required to guide the Melbourne Airport Rail Link through its next critical phase,” federal transport minister Catherine King says.
“Her extensive knowledge of the aviation, rail and broader transport and freight sectors will be a valuable asset to the Steering Committee.
“I look forward to working with Ms McArthur alongside the Victorian government and the Melbourne Airport to end the years of waiting and finally deliver the airport rail-link all Victorians deserve.”
McArthur is an experienced non-executive director and CEO across the aviation, rail and broader transport and freight sectors. This includes serving as CEO of Tiger Airlines, Virgin Australia Regional Airlines and Virgin Australia Cargo, as well as executive director and chair of the Queensland Rail people and safety committee.
“Airport rail will provide a much needed transport solution for our passengers as well as for staff in our local communities, and we are pleased to work with the Australian and Victorian governments to progress this project for Melbourne,” Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus says.
“With the Steering Committee now in place, we’re forging ahead with the planning and coordination needed to help airport rail become a reality.”
McArthur says she’s excited to join the project and lead it through the next phase.
“Melbourne Airport is a vital transport gateway for all Victorians. I am delighted to be appointed as the independent Chair for the MARL Steering Committee,” she says.
“I look forward to working with all parties to support them reach agreement on the timeline and pathway for the delivery of MARL”.
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