The Federal and Queensland Governments have signed a bilateral agreement to deliver Inland Rail.
The agreement is backed by the federal government’s $9.3 billion commitment to deliver Inland Rail.
The deal will see the Queensland Government will work with the federal government on business cases for passenger rail services from Salisbury to Beaudesert, Brisbane to Toowoomba and a dedicated rail freight line to the Port of Brisbane.
Both parties have also agreed to establish an international panel to advise on potential flood impacts. There will also be community consultation along the projects chosen route through Queensland.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the bilateral agreement would ensure Queensland’s future growth is supported by a robust freight rail network.
“Our government values the significance of this nation-building project for regional communities. More than 7,000 jobs and a $7 billion boost to Queensland’s economy will make a real difference to the people who live and work in this state,” he says.
For this 100 kilometre section more than $46 million in contracts have been committed to 84 local businesses with 1,000 people having worked on the project, including 400 locals.
Finance Minister Mathias Cormann said the signing of this bilateral agreement was a crucial step towards delivering a more efficient freight network for the future, underpinning national economic growth and international competitiveness.
“Long-haul rail is cheaper, safer and more reliable than moving freight by road over those distances. That is why the Australian Government has committed up to $9.3 billion to complete the national rail network through Inland Rail,” Mr. Cormann said.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said that the agreement reached with the Australian Government cements protections for Queenslanders and would see close to $2 billion in joint-funding fast-tracked for road and rail projects.
“The delivery of Inland Rail in Queensland is a huge win for the state, providing jobs and opportunities to communities,” Mr. Bailey said.
“Queenslanders can have confidence that a comprehensive and detailed approvals process for the project is being undertaken that includes rigorous environmental, planning and statutory approvals.”
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