The Port of Melbourne has announced that its Port Rail Transformation Project (PRTP) is set to go ahead with all of the project’s preconditions being completed.
In a statement, the Port said that the $80 million (AUS$125 million) initiative will involve significant rail infrastructure works and a new rail operating framework inside the port that will provide an alternative to moving containers by trucks.
The project is being funded through an increase in the tariff of $6.25 per TEU on full import containers, to take effect 1 June 2020. Brendan Bourke, Chief Executive Officer, Port of Melbourne, said the PRTP is a vital project for port users and the broader economy.
“A rail solution for the port will play a vital role in Victoria’s post-COVID economic recovery with a large construction project supporting jobs as well as supporting the more efficient movement of freight and contributing to a more productive supply chain for decades to come,” he said.
“The Port of Melbourne has listened to industry feedback and is responding with a solution that meets the need for increased transparency in rail access arrangements, improved port access and greater capacity,” Bourke added.
Additionally, Bourke said the Port will work closely with port users and other stakeholders to ensure the opportunities and benefits are realised by the industry.
“It’s vital that we all stay focused on the bigger picture – delivering the right infrastructure and operating environment to drive efficiencies in the supply chain so that we can continue to play our role in the state’s economic future.”
After a strong Expressions of Interest process, Port of Melbourne will execute a Request for Proposal for the infrastructure works with new infrastructure construction expected to commence before the end of the year.
