The VTA has congratulated the Victorian government and listed the priorities for the transport sector moving forward
The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has extended its congratulations to the Victorian government that won a third term in the Victorian election on the weekend.
“We look forward to continuing our proactive and constructive relationship with the Premier and his new ministry when it is announced and working in the interests of members and the broader freight industry to achieve policy and regulation that creates positive productivity, sustainability, and safety outcomes for members,” says VTA CEO Peter Anderson.
“Now that the election has been run and won, and caretaker conventions are no longer in place, it is imperative that the government rapidly accelerate plans to repair the state’s battered road and rail transport networks, which have been devastated by recent floods.
“While it is encouraging that Regional Roads Victoria has announced the start of works, additional funds announced by the Premier before the election writs were issued will not be enough to fully reinstate damaged roads, bridges and other infrastructure.”
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The VTA says it has a long and proud history of working with political parties of all persuasions to attain policy that benefits our industry. It’ll look to continue doing the same with this Victorian government.
“Given the financial enormity of the task ahead – which we maintain will cost up to $1 billion – plans should include consultation with the Commonwealth about joint federal-state state funding to fast-track what will be a mammoth infrastructure repair and re-instatement program,” Anderson says.
“Over the coming term of government there will be many priorities other than infrastructure we will be strongly advocating for given the impacts of labour shortages, high inflation and rising fuels costs on freight operators.”