Better planning, coordination and regulation
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Action Area 3
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.1 | 213 | National Urban Freight Planning Principles | All | Ongoing | The National Urban Freight Planning Principles were endorsed by Infrastructure and Transport Ministers on 28 May 2021. From next year, each jurisdiction will report on their practical actions to implement the Principles through the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy annual reporting process. Some early actions include:
WA Planning Policies apply at all stages of the planning process and include policy measures for application at the strategic level through to site-specific development. It is also anticipated local planning strategies, prepared by local governments, will consider the principles where relevant to their jurisdictions. |
| 3.1 | 214 | Norfolk Island Freight Planning | Cth, Norfolk Island | 2018 - 2022 | The remoteness of Norfolk Island means it is heavily reliant on sea and air freight. The Australian Government supports air freight to Norfolk Island by underwriting air freight services to and from the Island to ensure the continued delivery of critical supplies such as fresh groceries, food and medicine. This air freight service is essential due to the very thin sea freight supply chain. Through a Ports Management Strategy for Norfolk Island, the Australian Government is examining options that may deliver a more robust and reliable supply chain for sea freight. The Australian Government is also investigating the potential to enable a greater range of vessels to serve Norfolk Island with containerised freight and using roll-on-roll-off shipping in the short term, allowing development and implementation of the permanent solutions under consideration in the Ports Management Strategy. |
| 3.1 | 215 | Launceston City Deal | Cth, Tas, local govt | 2017 - 2027 | The Launceston City Deal is a 10-year initiative between the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and the City of Launceston. One of the initiatives of the Launceston City Deal is the 2019 Regional Economic Development Strategy for Northern Tasmania. It outlines strategic priorities for economic development within Northern Tasmania including better integration of regional transport and land use planning to ensure efficient supply chain connections throughout the region and inter-regionally, and leveraging road, rail and air infrastructure investment to grow freight and warehousing related businesses. The Greater Launceston Transformation Project is a nation-leading $10.3 million collaborative smart cities project, focused on initiatives to improve service delivery and increase innovation across Greater Launceston. The project includes Traffic Signal infrastructure upgrades and the installation of smart traffic management technology which is now complete. This project was undertaken to enable development of a live traffic management system to manage traffic flows and provide the foundations for bus, freight and emergency vehicle prioritisation in the future. The Launceston Smart City Mobility Project, which began in March 2020, uses data from the sensors installed for the Launceston Traffic Signal Upgrade Project as well as the installation of additional sensors and trials of smart mobility technology. The project will support the development of a strategic multimodal transport model for Greater Launceston, which will inform the development of a transport plan and supporting transport strategies for the city. The Greater Launceston Metropolitan Passenger Transport Plan is a 10-year strategic document to guide future passenger transport development and investment in Greater Launceston. In 2021, the Greater Launceston Transport Vision was released. The Vision establishes a framework for the sustainable and accessible growth of Greater Launceston’s transport system to facilitate the city’s future growth. The objective of the Vision is to ensure people are connected to their place of work. shopping. schools, essential services and leisure activities. All levels of government are now considering how the implementation of the Vision can be supported under the City Deal framework. |
| 3.1 | 216 | Albury Wodonga Regional Deal | Cth, NSW, Vic, local govt | 2021 - 2031 | The Australian, Victorian and NSW Governments and the Albury City and City of Wodonga Councils are progressing the package of projects that will deliver for the community over the ten-year life of the deal. It is expected that the Deal will be signed in 2021. The Australian Government has provided funding of $3.2m to support development of the deal. |
| 3.1 | 217 | South East Queensland (SEQ) City Deal | Cth, Qld, local govt | TBC | City Deal partners are working closely together to consider priorities for the SEQ community in the context of recovery from COVID-19. The SEQ City Deal will seek to deliver a better connected region, create more jobs and support the region’s livability. |
| 3.1 | 218 | Hinkler Regional Deal | Cth, Qld, local govt | 2020 - 2025 | The first annual progress report on the Hinkler Regional Deal is expected to be released in August/September 2021. The Australian Government is working with deal partners (Fraser Coast Regional Council and Bundaberg Regional Council) and the Queensland Government to progress the land transport infrastructure projects tied to the Hinkler Deal. The multi-use bulk goods conveyor at the Port of Bundaberg will commence construction in late 2021/early 2022, and a pre-feasibility study on the future potential for an outer harbour will be completed in early 2022. The Queensland Government is developing a transport strategy to inform the Quay St upgrade. |
| 3.1 | 219 | Inland Rail Corridor Preservation | Cth, Vic, NSW, Qld | Ongoing | Victoria> The substantive corridor for the Inland Rail project via the North East Rail Line in Victoria already has sufficient protections in place. Small amounts of additional land may be required outside the existing corridor in order to deliver Inland Rail. These additional parcels will be considered on an as-needs basis as the project is delivered. The Victorian and Australian Governments are also jointly developing business cases for the Interstate Freight Precinct and Outer Metropolitan Ring corridor. Queensland The Land Acquisition Deed was signed in November 2020. Queensland has protected two sections of the proposed Inland Rail route. Protection of additional corridors is being considered and will be subject to agreements and Environmental Impact Statement approvals. Investigation and planning are underway to enable extensive resumptions to commence in 2022–23 but this is subject to planning and environmental approvals. |
| 3.1 | 220 | Townsville City Deal | Cth, Qld, local govt | 2016 - 2031 | The fourth annual progress report on the Townsville City Deal is expected to be released in conjunction with the findings of the three-year formal review in September 2021. The Australian Government is working with deal partners (the Queensland Government and Townsville City Council) to progress the transport infrastructure projects tied to the Deal. The Port of Townsville channel upgrade commenced construction in March 2020 and is expected to be completed in late 2023. Preservation of the Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor in ongoing. The Townsville Industrial Development Board was established in 2019 and meets quarterly to identify opportunities for industrial development in Townsville, including in the State Development Area southeast of the city. |
| 3.1 | 221 | Western Sydney City Deal | Cth, NSW, local govt | 2018 - 2038 | The Western Sydney City Deal is a 20-year partnership between the Australian and NSW Governments and eight local governments in the Western Parkland City that leverages the Australian Government’s investment in the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport. Key freight-related initiatives in the Western Sydney City Deal include:
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| 3.1 | 222 | Hobart City Deal | Cth, Tas, local govt | 2019 - 2029 | The Hobart City Deal is a 10-year plan between the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and the Clarence, Hobart, Glenorchy and Kingborough councils. Key freight-related initiatives include:
Start of works on the Bridgewater Bridge Replacement project is expected to commence in 2022 with people driving on the new bridge by late 2024. Direct international flights between Hobart and Auckland re-commenced in April 2021 after more than 20years. The flights will boost international tourism to Tasmania and provide Tasmanian businesses with greater access to international markets. Direct flights to Hobart will also assist in building the city’s reputation as a gateway to Antarctica, which is another aim of the Hobart City Deal. Projects to reduce road congestion on the southern, northern and eastern inlets are progressing under the Hobart City Deal. |
| 3.1 | 223 | Liquid Fuel Security Review | Cth | Ongoing | The Interim Report of the Liquid Fuel Security Review was published in April 2019. The Liquid Fuel Security Review was created for the primary purpose of submission to Cabinet. Consideration about whether to release the Review is a decision for Government. The Government’s fuel security package, announced through the 2021-22 Budget, takes into consideration the major changes in the fuel market following the release of the Interim Report of the Liquid Fuel Security Review. |
| 3.1 | 224 | National Airports Safeguarding Framework | All | Ongoing | Australian Government: The Australian Government continues to promote the application of the National Airports Safeguarding Framework with jurisdictions through the Nationals Airports Safeguarding Advisory Group. The focus is on embedding the Framework into land use planning consistently across state and territory planning regimes. Victoria: The Melbourne Airport Environs Safeguarding Standing Advisory Committee, established in December 2019, continues to advise the Minister for Planning on further implementation of the National Airports Safeguarding Framework through the Victoria Planning Provisions and Planning Scheme. Queensland: Protecting key freight corridors and precincts is business as usual with key ports and airports and connecting road and rail corridors are mapped and protected. Additional corridors/precincts can be added as planning is undertaken and the corridor/ precinct is approved for protection. Western Australia: The WA Government is preparing a State Planning Policy to holistically address all matters in relation to land use planning and development in the vicinity of airports throughout WA, including matters of noise and safety. This work will have regard to the National Airports Safeguarding Framework and its application to regional airports. |
| 3.1 | 225 | Other City and Regional Deals | Cwth, State Govt and local govts | Various | Australian, State and Local Governments partner in other City and Regional Deals, including Adelaide, Perth, Darwin and Geelong, which do not include actions directly targeting freight. Although they include supporting actions (e.g. intersection improvements), these items will no longer be included in the annual progress report on the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy. |
| 3.1 | 226 | Deliver initiatives to improve the efficiency of urban freight | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW has published the Last Mile Toolkit to assist urban planners, developers and government to give greater consideration to freight and servicing demands for new buildings and precincts as part of the planning process. It also promotes better management of freight and servicing for existing buildings. Transport for NSW is also working with industry and local councils to develop solutions to enable off-peak deliveries to occur with appropriate mitigations to maintain community amenity and safety. This item ties in with initiative 204 under Action 2.4. |
| 3.1 | 227 | Review and update State planning policies to address issues around freight and port noise | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government is currently investigating how best to address noise issues from ports and intermodal terminals and are working with key agencies involved like the Environment Protection Authority’s Noise Management Working Group. |
| 3.1 | 228 | Support local councils to improve the amenity of key urban centres through good planning for freight and servicing in new developments | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW has published the Last Mile Toolkit to assist urban planners, developers and government to give greater consideration to freight and servicing demands for new buildings and precincts as part of the planning process. It also promotes better management of freight and servicing for existing buildings. Transport for NSW has also reviewed and commented on freight considerations for more than 100 Local Council Local Strategic Planning Statements in NSW in both Sydney and regional locations. |
| 3.1 | 229 | Ensure that freight and logistics land and corridors are identified and protected from sensitive land uses | NSW | Ongoing | This initiative is ongoing as Transport for NSW will continue to ensure that freight and logistics are considered in land use discussions, particularly around important trade gateways such as Port Botany, Sydney Harbour, Sydney Airport, the Western Sydney Airport and Newcastle Port.
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| 3.1 | 230 | Investigate options to amend the State Environmental Planning Policy (Three Ports) 2013 | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government temporarily amended the State Environmental Planning Policy (Three Ports) 2013 in November 2020 to allow greater flexibility regarding the storage of both full and empty containers. |
| 3.1 | 231 | Review and update the Development Near Rail Corridors and Busy Roads – Interim Guideline to ensure it reflects the latest evidence and practices | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW will continue to work with other NSW Government agencies on any updates. |
| 3.1 | 232 | Amplification of the Southern Sydney Freight Line | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Contract has been awarded and early works have commenced. |
| 3.1 | 233 | Highway Corridor Strategies | Cth, Vic, NSW, SA | Ongoing | The Victorian Government is collaborating with key stakeholders and interest groups in the preparation of several Transport Corridor Strategies to help guide future investment requirements, including for efficient freight movement, in regional Victoria. These strategies will feed into each region’s Regional Integrated Transport Plans and the broader pipeline of investment opportunities for funding consideration by governments. Corridor planning is under way across regional Victoria, including the Murray Valley Highway, Western Highway, Princes Highway West, Goulburn Valley Highway, Calder Highway and Sunraysia Highway. |
| 3.1 | 234 | Victorian Ports Strategy | Vic | 2020 - 2022 | The Independent Review of the Victorian Ports System was completed in November 2020 and a full government response to the review was approved by the Victorian Government in June 2021 and proposed for release in the second half of 2021. As a result, the Victorian Commercial Ports Strategy will be developed over the next 12 months and is expected to be released in mid-2022. |
| 3.1 | 235 | Identify and reserve sites for new freight terminals and precincts | Vic | Ongoing | The Victorian Government has partnered with the Municipal Association of Victoria on a two-year program to assist with engagement of local councils to deliver or contribute to a range of freight projects. This project may be included in the two-year program of work. The Municipal Association of Victoria has commenced early scoping and consultation with local councils to understand local freight issues and establish a Freight Policy Reference Group. |
| 3.1 | 236 | Green Triangle Freight Action Plan | Vic, SA | 2009 - TBC | A steering committee has been established and meets regularly to progress the actions under the updated Plan. $40 million of funding has been previously committed, and a further $80 million has been committed by the Australian Government under the Roads of Strategic Importance program. This funding will be invested in asset renewal of road corridors critical for the Green Triangle freight task, including bridge strengthening for High Productivity Freight Vehicles, and further planning work to cater for future renewable energy freight activities. See similar item under South Australia. |
| 3.1 | 237 | Supply Chain Strategy for the North West Minerals Province | Qld | 2019 - 2023 | To support key enabling infrastructure for the North West Minerals Province, the Queensland Government is providing $80 million over four years ($20 million each year) through the Mount Isa Line Incentive Scheme to incentivise more freight on rail on the Mount Isa Line and encourage a shift from road to rail. The Queensland Government has allocated $50 million to the Mount Isa Line specifically for capacity and resilience improvements over the next four years. Projects include:
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| 3.1 | 238 | Action Plan implementation arrangements | All | Ongoing | The Queensland Freight Action Plan (QFAP) was publicly released on 28 September 2020 and is made up of five Shared Commitments, two Critical Enablers, 11 Delivery Statements, 21 Actions, 47 Activities and 128 Deliverables. The QFAP forms Queensland’s plan for the implementation of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy’s National Action Plan. Queensland’s commitments to national freight agenda expressed in the National Action Plan are elements of the QFAP. |
| 3.1 | 239 | Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor | Qld, Cth | Ongong | In 2019–20, following a review of land requirements for the Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor to determine the extent of required land acquisitions, the Queensland Government commenced stakeholder engagement with impacted landowners. This will be ongoing during the land acquisitions. Planning for environmental approval requirements of the infrastructure corridor is in-progress. The Australian and Queensland Governments have committed $10 million ($5 million each) to preserve the corridor. The Queensland Government has expended $600,000 to date. |
| 3.1 | 240 | Port of Brisbane Rail Access Corridor Preservation | Qld, Cth | 2022 | The findings of the 2019 Port of Brisbane Strategic Rail Access Study are being considered by the Australian and Queensland governments. Subject to the findings of the Port of Brisbane Strategic Rail Access Study, the next phase aims to progress planning to investigate detailed options and timing for a potential dedicated freight corridor to the Port of Brisbane. The project is wholly funded by the Australian Government with the Queensland Government providing an in-kind contribution. |
| 3.1 | 241 | Identify and protect freight and logistics land, corridors and precincts | WA | Short term | The WA Government is committed to participating in national forums and assisting in the identification and protection of WA freight and logistics, land, corridors, and precincts, including ongoing implementation of the Perth and Peel @ 3.5 million suite of land use planning and infrastructure frameworks. |
| 3.1 | 242 | City and Regional Deals | Cth, WA, local govt | Short term | A City Deal for Perth was announced in September 2020, including several active transport elements in the Perth CBD area. These projects are jointly funded by the Australian and WA Governments and local governments. A full implementation plan is expected to be available by the end of 2021. There has been no further discussion on regional deals. |
| 3.1 | 243 | Review of Road Strategies (Roads 2030) | WA | Short term | In September 2019, the WA Government commenced its review of ROADS 2030 Regional Development Strategies. The aim of the review is to create new documents (ROADS 2040) for each regional road group (or sub-group) for identifying regional strategies for regionally significant local government roads. The WA Government has partnered with the WA Local Government Authority to deliver the review and it is expected to be completed in the latter half of 2021. |
| 3.1 | 244 | Implement State Planning Policy 5.4 (road and rail noise) | WA | Short term | Ongoing implementation of State Planning Policy 5.4 is informed by road and rail noise guidelines and state-wide mapping of strategic freight routes, significant freight/traffic routes, and proposed strategic freight routes. |
| 3.1 | 245 | Perth and Peel @3.5 million frameworks | WA | Short term | The Perth and Peel @3.5 million Strategy provides a spatial plan for metropolitan Perth, including freight corridors. Review of Planning Investigation Areas identified in the Perth and Peel @ 3.5 million suite of land use and infrastructure frameworks continues. |
| 3.1 | 246 | Outback Way – Upgrade and Seal | WA | the | The first Outback Way works package to seal the Great Central Road is well underway, with 20km of the first 40km now sealed. Earthworks have started to prepare for sealing of the next 20km section, which is due for completion in October 2021. Project development for delivery of the next work package has started. This includes a 10km section near Warburton and a 3km section near Warakuna. Construction is expected to begin in late 2021. The WA Government is also planning for delivery of a future work package near the Cosmo Newberry Community, 84km east of Laverton. |
| 3.1 | 247 | Planning reform — (Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016) | SA | Complete | The Planning and Design Code came into effect in the urban areas of South Australia from 19 March 2021. |
| 3.1 | 248 | Green Triangle Freight Action Plan | SA | Ongoing | The Implementation Monitoring Group meets regularly to progress the actions under the updated Green Triangle Freight Action Plan. The Australian Government allocated $20 million to future priorities in Victoria within the Green Triangle in the 2021-22 Budget. See similar item under Victoria. |
| 3.1 | 249 | Development of transport analytics, data analysis and application (new) | SA | Ongoing | SA has established the Transport Analytics Directorate to provide core leadership and specialist expertise on data, analytics and modelling. Data visualisation tools are in development. SA has acquired access to CSIRO’s Transport Network Strategic Investment Tool to improve level of freight data available to inform planning activities. |
| 3.1 | 250 | Restricted Access Vehicle Network Development Study (new) | SA | April - October 2021 | See Restricted Access Vehicle Network Development Study under Action 1.2. |
| 3.1 | 251 | Greater Hobart MetroPlan | Tas | 2020 - ongoing | The Greater Hobart Act 2019 provides a legislated governance framework to better align strategic land use and infrastructure planning within the Greater Hobart Area (Clarence, Glenorchy, Hobart and Kingborough councils). The Greater Hobart MetroPlan will provide a high-level spatial representation to guide future growth and development in Hobart over the next 30 years, considering forecast population and dwelling growth, and the location of major new residential development, commercial centres and industrial hubs. Importantly the MetroPlan will seek to ensure that key infrastructure providers are involved in development of the MetroPlan to better align infrastructure planning with future growth. It is expected that the MetroPlan will be reviewed every three to five years and updated as required. |
| 3.1 | 252 | ACT Planning Strategy | ACT | Short term | In accordance with the ACT Planning Strategy 2018, decisions regarding the strategic location of growth, particularly for new employment and industrial areas, continue to have regard to existing freight networks and requirements. The ACT Government continues to engage across jurisdictional boundaries by providing input to the NSW Government and surrounding local councils on strategic planning matters concerning freight. |
| 3.1 | 253 | Progressing a planning and statutory environmental approval process | ACT | Short term | The ACT Government continues to progress statutory strategic assessment approval processes under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) for the Eastern Broadacre area. This process will determine the locations for future rezoning of land for new industrial and employment precincts in parts of the eastern side of Canberra, near Canberra Airport and along national freight routes. Freight requirements will be a key consideration in the future, more detailed subdivision planning of resultant precincts. |
| 3.2 | 254 | Development of Australian Transport Assessment and Planning urban freight modelling guidelines | All | 2020 - 2021 | The Australian Transport Assessment and Planning urban freight modelling guidelines were finalised in April 2021. The guidelines will ensure consistency in modelling freight demand, or heavy vehicle movements, in urban transport models across jurisdictions. They are available at https://www.atap.gov.au/tools-techniques/index. |
| 3.2 | 255 | National Urban Planning Forum | Cth | 2021 | Complete. The National Urban Freight Planning Principles were endorsed by Infrastructure and Transport Ministers on 28 May 2021. The Principles reflect outcomes from public consultation with over 60 organisations and individuals across the planning sector and freight industry. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications held three online public focus groups to seek feedback on draft Principles on 18 December 2020, 19 January 2021 and 21 January 2021. These focus groups were supported by an online survey from 24 November to 18 December 2020. |
| 3.2 | 256 | National Urban Freight Planning Principles | All | Ongoing | See item of the same name under Action 3.1. |
| 3.2 | 257 | Assist local councils to plan for freight needs | NSW | Ongoing | See item of the same name under Action 1.2. |
| 3.2 | 258 | Bay West Container Port | Vic | 2021 - TBD | The Victorian Government is progressing with the development of a Victorian Commercial Ports Strategy, due in mid-2022. The development of the Ports Strategy will incorporate next steps for planning and securing Bay West as Victoria’s second container port. This item will be reported on under Victorian Ports Strategy under Action 3.1 in future reports. |
| 3.2 | 259 | Review and enhance protection of Principal Freight Network | Vic | TBC | The Victorian Government has progressed work on the Principal Freight Network review, conducting a detailed assessment to recommend changes to the network. Preparations are being made to conduct external stakeholder consultation to enable finalisation of the changes to the updated network maps. The Victorian Government is currently reviewing options for how best to integrate proposed strengthened planning protections for the network into the Victoria Planning Provisions, as part of a wider review of the planning provisions. |
| 3.2 | 260 | Dynon Freight Precinct Master Planning | Vic | TBC | A program of work to establish a strategic policy position on the long-term use of the Dynon precinct is underway. The Victorian Planning Authority has developed a Dynon Framework Plan, which is a land use strategy that helps integrate and coordinate the precincts various port, freight, transport and urban renewal opportunities. The Framework is an internal Victorian Government document which confirms governments’ intentions for the area and will guide the next phase of detailed precinct planning and investment. In late 2019, VicTrack undertook an Expression of Interest) market process for the lease of land at Melbourne Market/ South Dynon rail precinct between Dynon Road and Footscray Road. The Expression of Interest sought proposals regarding the use of the site in the short-, medium- and long-term. Further strategic planning work is underway to inform the next stage Request for Proposal. The VicTrack Melbourne Market Request or Proposal is in progress and closed June 2021. Assessments will include probity management advice. Scoping for a final stage of Dynon Master planning is about to commence in consultation with VicTrack, with an extension of the agreement sought in June 2021 to enable work to continue through 2021-22. |
| 3.2 | 261 | Reviewing and updating state and territory planning policies relating to freight | All | Short term | Queensland has commenced development of integrated multi-modal Regional Freight Plans to identify and prioritise freight network improvements to support supply chain efficiency across the region. |
| 3.2 | 262 | Master Planning for Priority Ports | Qld | Ongoing | Priority port master planning will support the sustainable development of critical economic port infrastructure in a way that will balance growth, job creation, environmental values and community interests. Final port overlays for the ports of Gladstone and Townsville came into effect on 1 February 2021. The port overlays operate alongside existing planning instruments to guide future development and achieve the long-term visions of the master plans. Master planning for the priority ports of Hay Point/Mackay and Abbot Point has formally commenced with a notice of proposal issued to the port authority and local governments on 5 May 2021, in accordance with Sustainable Ports Development Act 2015. |
| 3.2 | 263 | Bundaberg State Development Area Development Scheme | Qld | Ongoing | Investigation and planning for transhipping, bulk storage and trial shipment infrastructure, and planning for access to facilities including new port access road is ongoing. Hinkler Regional Deal implementation support has been provided to Gladstone Ports Corporation and Sugar Terminals Ltd for the common use conveyor business case development and associated commercial opportunities. $1 million has been provided through Unite & Recover State funding and implementation support for common use bulk storage and trial shipment facilities involving remediation of the old Stolthaven site and case management of proposed private sector investors at Port of Bundaberg. Pacific Marine Base Bundaberg are commencing construction of Stage 1 of their proposed $35 million Marine Industry Site at the Port of Bundaberg. Stage 1 of the project will deliver a 180m long land backed wharf and berth pocket which could see the facility support sea freight transport and break bulk for renewables project cargoes. |
| 3.2 | 264 | Westport: Ports and Environs Strategy | WA | Long term | Planning is now underway to identify design options for a new container port in Kwinana and associated transport corridors that are sustainable and meet operational requirements; identify potential land requirements; and determine when and how the new infrastructure should be delivered. |
| 3.2 | 265 | Reviewing and upgrading state and territory planning policies relating to freight | WA | Short term | The WA Government is committed to participating in national forums and assisting in reviewing and upgrading planning policies. SPP 5.4 - Road and Rail Noise has been in operation since September 2019, and has objectives that include:
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| 3.2 | 266 | Ports Master Plan | WA | Short term | The details of Port Master Plans for WA’s five Port Authorities are as follows:
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| 3.2 | 267 | Review of Perth inner city freight movements | WA | Medium term | The Phase 2 report of the Perth Greater CBD Transport Plan is currently being finalised and is expected to be provided to the WA Minister for Transport and released later in 2021. Development of the Plan included the examination of inner-city freight movements, including a study and survey conducted by the City of Perth. Proposed projects to support urban freight that will be implemented between 2021 and 2024 include a project looking to improve deliveries to the mall super block; a study of kerbside access (including loading zones); and the exploration of technological efficiencies which could assist in optimising movement of freight vehicles. Detailed scoping of these projects is currently taking place. |
| 3.2 | 268 | Rolling 10 Year Tasmanian Infrastructure Pipeline | Tas | 2020 - 2030 | The pipeline maps out planned infrastructure development for the next decade, with projects totalling an estimated $17.4 billion – an estimated $3.1 billion of these are expected to be delivered between 2020 and 2022, including an Australian Government investment of $401 million in roads and bridges for 2020-21 alone. The Pipeline was released in February 2021 and will now move to six-monthly updates. |
| 3.2 | 269 | Release draft 30 Year Infrastructure Strategy for consultation | Tas | 2019 - 2049 | As part of the Tasmanian Government’s long-term planning for Tasmania’s future, a draft 30-year Infrastructure Strategy was released in 2019 for consultation. Following this, Tasmania will now develop a framework to inform the Government’s infrastructure investment decisions, given their large cost and long-term nature. The final Strategy will be informed by work done by Infrastructure Australia and will help unlock further economic development in the State. |
| 3.2 | 270 | Tasmanian Planning Policies | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | The Tasmanian Planning Policies will acknowledge the importance of protecting the capacity, safety and efficiency of transport networks and assets. The policies will include specific strategies that seek to protect existing and future strategic transport infrastructure corridors and assets from encroachment by incompatible land use and development. |
| 3.2 | 271 | Review of Regional Land Use Strategies | Tas | 2021 – 2023 | Protection of freight corridors and assets are considered in each of the three Regional Land Use Strategies in Tasmania. A future review of these strategies will form part of a broader reform of the Tasmanian planning system. |
| 3.2 | 272 | Tasmanian Planning Scheme | Tas | 2019 - 2022 | The Tasmanian Planning Scheme was developed in conjunction with key industry stakeholders to ensure appropriate consideration was afforded to the industrial and transport sectors. Consequently, key protections such as attenuation and buffer areas are in place along key transport networks and other assets. |
| 3.2 | 273 | Canberra Region Joint Organisation’s (CRJO) Transport and Freight Infrastructure Prospectus | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT continues to participate as an Associate Member in the CRJO. Through the CRJO the ACT has supported the development of the CRJO Transport and Freight Infrastructure Prospectus. The ACT will continue to work with the CRJO to identify and promote the key regional infrastructure needs to support the growth of the region. |
| 3.2 | 274 | ACT-NSW Memorandum of Understanding for Regional Collaboration | ACT, NSW | Ongoing | The ACT-NSW Memorandum of Understanding for Regional Collaboration was re-signed in 2020 by the ACT and NSW. It includes in its priority work areas a commitment to work together and with the Canberra Region Joint Organisation to develop a Canberra Region Economic Development Strategy. This Strategy is expected to include joint priorities to support growth and diversification in the Canberra Region economy, including consideration of issues such as freight in government planning and decision-making as it relates to the Canberra Region. The Memorandum of Understanding also commits to the development of a regional infrastructure priority list. Freight considerations will be a key input into this work. |
| 3.3 | 275 | Funding to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to undertake road access improvements for heavy vehicles — $20.1 million | Cth | 2019 - 2024 | The 2019-20 Budget allocated $8 million over two years to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to fund the Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project (SLGAAP) which is undertaking engineering assessments for local government owned road network infrastructure, and to build an asset collection database. At 30 June 2021, almost 300 local government assets have been assessed across more than 60 local government areas as part of the SLGAAP. In addition to asset assessments, the project has delivered education and awareness to local governments and developed tools to support both local governments and heavy vehicle operators. In the 2021-22 Budget, the Australian Government has allocated a further $12.1m over three years (2021–2024) to continue the SLGAAP. |
| 3.3 | 276 | Encourage use of the Restricted Access Vehicle Route Assessment Tool | All | Ongoing | The Restricted Access Vehicle Route Assessment Tool has been developed by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and the Australian Road Research Board. It is designed as an expert tool for local government practitioners and is intended to allow heavy vehicle route assessments to be completed in line with Performance-Based Standards route classification guidelines. The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator actively promotes the use of the tool and it is free for local governments from participating jurisdictions. Victoria The Victorian Government has partnered with the Municipal Association of Victoria on a two-year program to assist with engagement of local councils to deliver or contribute to a range of freight projects. Freight access issues will be considered as part of this work. The Municipal Association of Victoria has commenced early scoping and consultation with local councils to understand local freight issues and establish a Freight Policy Reference Group. Queensland Queensland has recently undertaken technical heavy vehicle route assessment training in Rockhampton, Townsville and Roma. Local government engineers were present at these sessions, except where COVID-19 restrictions limited participation. |
| 3.3 | 277 | Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme | Cth | Ongoing | On 11 May 2021, the Australian Government announced the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES) was being extended to provide assistance for eligible imported goods, which are shipped to Tasmania via a mainland port and where there is no Australian equivalent good. Extending TFES assistance to the shipment of eligible imported goods further reduces the additional transports costs incurred by Tasmanian businesses that ship goods across Bass Strait, in the absence of the road and rail options available on the mainland. Claimants will be able to lodge their TFES imported goods claim online from 1 October 2021, for eligible imported goods shipped from the mainland to Tasmania on or after 1 July 2021. |
| 3.3 | 278 | A national framework for high productivity vehicles | Cth | Ongoing | Led by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), a working group has been established to share information regarding Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicles and to encourage the development of nationally consistent PBS vehicle network access/investment plans. Work is progressing and, on 1 August 2020, the NHVR issued the National Class 2 Road Train Authorisation Notice 2020 (No. 2), which expands the road network available to a broader range of road trains. The NHVR has partnered with state and territory transport agencies to deliver the national notices, including the development of a PBS Notice for Tier 1 PBS Vehicles. This enables lower-risk PBS vehicles that meet the PBS Tier 1 bridge formulae to access approved networks without a permit, providing access under notice for a more diverse range of PBS vehicles. |
| 3.3 | 279 | National Harmonisation Program | Cth | Ongoing | The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is leading the National Harmonisation Program to improve heavy vehicle regulation consistency. The key objectives of this program are to minimise the compliance burden on the heavy vehicle transport industry, reducing duplication and inconsistencies across state and territory borders. The NHVR is continuing the National Harmonisation Program and has commenced a review of the National Grain Harvest Management and National Livestock Loading Schemes. In 2020, the NHVR established a National Heavy Vehicle Notice Advisory Group to provide a forum in which the NHVR and state and territory government members may discuss notice development – ensuring that national outcomes are supported as much as possible with input accounting for local needs and knowledge. |
| 3.3 | 280 | Delegations project | Cth | Completed | The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) coordinates a range of access applications from start to finish, liaising directly with industry and road managers to manage applications and issue permits. While the NHVR processes all Class 2 and Class 3 permit applications, it is assisted by state and territory governments in processing some Class 1 permit applications made under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. The National Operational Strategy and Policy Advisory Group has endorsed the return of all access permit delegations and processing back to the NHVR. The NHVR Return of Delegations Project officially concluded on 30 June 2020 and the NHVR now processes all heavy vehicle road access applications and issues permits in all participating states and territories. |
| 3.3 | 281 | Reforming the Performance-Based Standards scheme | Cth | Ongoing | The National Transport Commission is currently reviewing the Heavy Vehicle National Law, which includes provisions dealing with Performance Based Standards design approvals. Separately, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator is progressively reviewing specific standards contained in the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme. The revised Frontal Swing Standard was implemented in April 2020 and the Stability Under Braking (DSUB) standard was endorsed by Infrastructure and Transport Ministers in May 2021. DSUB implementation will commence from 2021-2022.These updated standards will improve safety and productivity. In May 2021, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers also approved introducing a Generic Tyre Approach within the PBS Scheme. The NHVR will continue to review the administrative, regulatory, and procedural and policy aspects of the PBS scheme to determine how it can ensure the scheme is best positioned to support the next generation of innovative vehicles and further promote industry uptake. |
| 3.3 | 282 | Inland Rail intermodal terminals planning | Cth, Vic, NSW, Qld | 2019 - 2022 | The Australian Government and the Queensland Government are currently progressing an intermodal terminal business case that will look at intermodal needs to support Inland Rail within South East Queensland. To date a preliminary evaluation of several possible South East Queensland sites against Inland Rail’s service requirements has taken place. This investigation remains ongoing with a detailed business case for a preferred site to be provided by June 2022. Ten of the 35 successful project proposals under the Australian Government’s Interface Improvement Program are based in Queensland. Specialist advisors from Ernst and Young (EY) have been engaged by the Australian Government to review the proposals and to recommend whether they should proceed for further development as feasibility studies and strategic business cases. Queensland is assisting EY with information and data to support the evaluation of the proposals. The Australian and Victorian governments are currently undertaking further work considering intermodal terminal requirements in Melbourne including to support Inland Rail. See Western Interstate Freight Terminal and Development of Inland Rail terminals in Melbourne and Brisbane under Action 1.1 and the Inland Rail Interface Improvement Program under Action 1.2. |
| 3.3 | 283 | Build local government road network asset management and maintenance capability | Cth | This item will be reported on under Funding to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to undertake road access improvements for heavy vehicles under Action 3.3. | |
| 3.3 | 284 | Streamline the heavy vehicle road access approval process | All | Ongoing | The outcomes of the Oversize Overmass (OSOM) Vehicle Access Arrangements Review outlined 38 recommendations that the OSOM Working Group progressed. In January 2021, the Working Group agreed that 31 of the 38 recommendations have been completed. It was also agreed that the remaining seven recommendations would be progressed through the National Transport Commissions proposed work plan for the Heavy Vehicle National Law review.A key outcome of the OSOM review was a more streamlined access approval process that encourages the development of pre-approvals and notices to replace permits, where possible, providing industry with greater efficiency and certainty, through reducing permit issue timeframes or removing permit requirements respectively. In August 2020, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) released its Heavy Vehicle Productivity Plan (the Plan) 2020-2025. One objective of the Plan is to partner with local government to build capability. This objective aims to deliver a program of online technical training sessions to improve local government knowledge and understanding of heavy vehicle mass and dimension, performance, and route assessment.Through the first round of the Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project (see Funding to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to undertake road access improvements for heavy vehicles, above), the NHVR has also developed a Local Government Asset Assessment Toolkit that is supporting road managers by standardising an approach to heavy vehicle assessments. The NHVR engagement hub includes a comprehensive interactive mapping tool that allows road managers and industry across Australia to identify bridges and culverts with restricted heavy vehicle access. Two further initiatives the NHVR has partnered with the Australian Government, state and territory transport agencies and Austroads to provide road managers with information and guidelines to improve understanding of heavy vehicles and road freight include:
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| 3.3 | 285 | Domestic Border Controls – Freight Movements Protocol | All | 2020 | The Freight Movement Protocol and Code were agreed by National Cabinet in mid-2020. They provide a consistent national framework for cross-border land freight movements, including for heavy vehicle drivers and rail crew crossing domestic borders. The Protocol and Code have supported the movement of freight during border closures and lockdowns throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. On 23 July 2021, the National Cabinet agreed Infrastructure and Transport Ministers work with the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee to develop an updated nationally consistent testing regime for freight workers under the Code in light of recent developments with COVID-19. |
| 3.3 | 286 | Road Vehicle Standards legislation implementation | Cth | Complete | See Road vehicle standards regulation reform under Action 3.4. |
| 3.3 | 287 | Options evaluation for a National Heavy Vehicle Access Assessment System (new) | All, Austroads | TBD | Building on a prior Scoping Study (Publication no: AP-R634-20 – see https://austroads.com.au/publications) delivered in September 2020, this Austroads project is to confirm the rationale, define and evaluate options for a National Heavy Vehicle Access Assessment System that improves on network access transparency and certainty for PBS, other heavy vehicles, and oversize/overmass vehicle classes. |
| 3.3 | 288 | Fund infrastructure assessment and upgrades to increase heavy vehicle road access | NSW | Short term | See initiative of the same name under Action 1.2. |
| 3.3 | 289 | Progressing freight and export opportunities identified in the economic analysis of direct international air-freight options and Future Transport 2056 | NSW; ACT | The NSW Government has undertaken a Registration of Interest (ROI) process seeking nominations for potential enabling infrastructure projects that would improve supply chains to domestic and export markets. The ROI process closed in March 2021. | |
| 3.3 | 290 | Implementation of the Independent Review of Oversize Over mass Access Arrangements recommendations | All | 2020 - 2021 | Queensland has successfully contributed to the recent implementation and gazettal of the National Long Road Train Prime Mover Notice. Queensland is currently developing input to the Special Purpose Vehicle Notice, Special Purpose Vehicle Combination Notice and Tier 1 and Tier 3 PBS Notices. |
| 3.3 | 291 | Fund infrastructure assessment and upgrades to increase heavy vehicle road access | All | Ongoing | The Queensland Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme ($70 million) is delivered as an annual grant allocation to Regional Roads and Transport Groups. |
| 3.3 | 292 | Improve training and education programs for local road managers | All | Ongoing | Queensland has recently undertaken technical heavy vehicle route assessment training in Rockhampton, Townsville and Roma. Local government engineers were present at these sessions, except where COVID-19 restrictions limited participation. |
| 3.3 | 293 | Improvement management and use of loading zones in key urban centres | All | Short term | The South East Queensland Regional Transport Plan recognises urban freight and goods delivery within the region and requires adequate physical space for loading and deliveries. |
| 3.3 | 294 | Investigate scheduling and operating procedures to improve rail freight access and flows | All | 2021 | A long-term Rail Network Strategy is being prepared to inform future rail planning and coordination, in addition to sequencing of network improvements over the long-term. |
| 3.3 | 295 | South East Queensland Urban Freight Strategy | Qld | Ongoing | The South East Queensland Regional Transport Plan 2021 identifies several actions to ensure goods and services move efficiently and reliably along supply chains to and between key economic areas and markets. These actions include:
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| 3.3 | 296 | Independent review of Oversize Overmass Access Arrangements Recommendations | WA | 2020 - 2021 | Complete. The Oversize Overmass Working Group has completed its tenure and has been wound up by the Australian Government. Three packages of work have been defined based on the Oversize Over Mass review recommendations:
See Streamline the heavy vehicle road access approval process under Action 3.3 for more information. |
| 3.3 | 297 | Fund infrastructure assessment and upgrades to increase heavy vehicle road access | WA | Short term | WA continues to participate in national forums and undertake infrastructure assessments to upgrade Restricted Access Vehicles access. |
| 3.3 | 298 | Improve training and education programs for local road managers regarding restricted access vehicle permit processes | WA | Short term | WA continues to participate in national training and education forums for local road managers. In 2020-21 WA reinvigorated its state-wide Heavy Vehicle workshops and information sessions. These sessions provide local road managers and industry an opportunity to meet face to face with WA heavy vehicle staff and discuss local heavy vehicle issues including the provision of training and education around heavy vehicle access. |
| 3.3 | 299 | Improve management and use of loading ones in key urban centres | WA | Short term | Consultation and research conducted as part of the development of the Perth CBD Transport Plan identified that growing demand and increasing competition for access to limited kerbside space made guidance a priority. The Plan proposes that a framework be developed to present potential solutions for management and prioritisation of kerbside space, including loading zones. |
| 3.3 | 300 | Investigate scheduling and operating procedures to improve rail freight access and flows | WA | Short term | WA will continue to review requests for additional or ad-hoc train pathways and action them as capacity permits. WA has provided input to the Swan River Crossing project to ensure that rail capacity into Fremantle port is not reduced due to the replacement of the existing river crossings at Fremantle. Arc Infrastructure is implementing the Enhanced Network Control Program, which will transform how the rail freight network is managed and operated, as it moves from a conventional signal and voice authority-based train control system to a communication-based train management system. |
| 3.3 | 301 | Growth State | SA | Ongoing | Nine priority sectors have been identified as focus areas because of their strong potential to meet increasing interstate and global demand, attract investors and leverage comparative advantages. These include food, wine and agribusiness and energy and mining. Relevant state agencies are working with industry to develop sector plans which inform SA infrastructure investment priorities to support the achievement of State economic growth targets. |
| 3.3 | 302 | Le Fevre Peninsula Master Plan | SA | Ongoing | A complementary transport study was completed in 2019, focussing on the impacts of development of the Osborne Naval Shipyard. Planning work is continuing to ensure that increased workforce movement in the area does not adversely impact bulk and container supply chains. |
| 3.3 | 303 | Time Sensitive Freight – Understanding Tasmania’s Market | Tas | Ongoing | The Tasmanian Government is undertaking a study to determine the size and value of Tasmania’s time sensitive freight market to assist in the identification of reliable data sources by commodity and better understand potential future growth. |
| 3.3 | 304 | Maintaining National Freight Routes | ACT, NHVR | Ongoing | Planning and maintaining nationally significant freight routes in the ACT is ongoing and endeavours to enhance both freight capacity and network resilience (bushfire hazard and natural disaster) in the ACT region. As this also closely relates to the adjoining cross border transport infrastructure priorities, this means that future policy and planning must increasingly be a shared responsibility between the ACT, adjoining jurisdictions, transport operators, freight bodies and other organisations advocating for these freight needs and anticipated growth. The ACT continues to maintain up-to-date national freight maps, through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, for existing approved routes for all restricted access vehicle networks (B-double, Higher Mass Limits, Performance-Based Standards Level 1 and Level 2, 14.5 tonne buses, over dimension vehicles). |
| 3.3 | 305 | Progressing freight and export opportunities identified in the economic analysis of direct international air-freight options and the NSW Future Transport 2056 | ACT, NSW | Ongoing | Canberra Airport released their 2020 Master Plan in early 2020, with a focus on freight and air freight opportunities including more direct international flights, a new runway, and an increased freight capacity. As initial air freight in Canberra has been exclusively transported on commercial passenger flights, this has meant that flight restrictions due to COVID-19 has limited implementation during 2020-21. |
| 3.3 | 306 | Work with Canberra Airport, Qatar Airways, local businesses and councils | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT Government continues to work closely with NSW, the Canberra Region Joint Organisation, PAK Fresh Handling, Menzies Aviation and the Canberra Airport to deliver a region roadshow and to profile the growing capability and capacity of moving regional produce to international markets through Canberra.
COVID has limited implementation during 2020-21. |
| 3.3 | 307 | Priorities for Australia’s Biosecurity System - $313 million | Cth | 2018 - 2023 | Much of this investment is ongoing and measures have been embedded into the Australian Government’s enhanced biosecurity capability. This is being supported by a $400 million package of biosecurity measures, announced in the 2021-22 Budget, including a focus on expanding offshore assurance arrangements and overseas supply integration, improved regulatory tools and information, and rolling out advancements in detection technologies and business practice innovations. |
| 3.4 | 308 | Air Cargo Security Reforms | Cth | 2022 | Australia’s air cargo security regulatory framework continues to be strengthened to ensure that the air cargo supply chain is secure from acts of unlawful interference. All export air cargo, and the vast majority of domestic air cargo, is now subject to piece-level examination. Examination at additional domestic airports will commence from 1 July 2022. |
| 3.4 | 309 | Simplified Trade System (STS) (new) NB: replaces the Trade Modernisation Agenda | Cth | 2024 | In 2020–21, the Australian Border Force, in partnership with key border agencies, delivered the first phase of the Simplified Trade System (STS) agenda which led to the establishment of a whole of government STS Implementation Taskforce in the Trade Portfolio. The Taskforce, announced in the 2021–22 Budget, will lead the STS reform agenda across government to create a simpler, more efficient and digitised trading system which delivers benefits for Australian businesses and increases our international competitiveness and economic resilience. The STS Implementation Taskforce has superseded the Australian Border Force-led Trade Single Window Taskforce, under which the trade modernisation agenda now falls. |
| 3.4 | 310 | Regulatory reforms to prepare for deployment of automated vehicles | All | 2020 - 2026 | In 2020-21, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers agreed to the roadmap and timelines for implementing a national safety framework for automated vehicles (AVs), with the aim to have the required legislation drafted by the end of 2023 and both legislation and a regulator in place by 2026, allowing pathways for commercial deployment of AVs on the road. Queensland Queensland’s input to the Heavy Vehicle National Law is continuing along previous lines to foster new technologies. Western Australia The WA government provided regular input through 2020-21 to discussions and papers from the National Transport Commission on the proposed in-service safety law for AVs, regulatory framework for AVs and AV trial guidelines, and to the Australian Government on required Australian Design Rules for AVs. An agreement on the legislative approach, the scope of an intergovernmental agreement, progress on related Austroads projects, an assessment on readiness for commercial deployment of AVs and a review of existing enforcement powers are expected to be delivered in 2021-22. AV trials continue through existing protocols, with 2020-21 seeing a regional AV shuttle trial in Geraldton and the launch of an automated on-campus shuttle with software completely developed by students at the University of Western Australia. DoT continues to assist proponents in moving potential trials from feasibility to approval. |
| 3.4 | 311 | Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Systems of National Significance | Cth | 2021 - TBD | The Australian Government is committed to protecting the essential services all Australians rely on. To achieve this, the Department of Home Affairs is progressing the Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Systems of National Significance reforms. The Security Legislation Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2020 (SLA Bill) was introduced into Parliament on 10 December 2020. The SLA Bill seeks to amend the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 by expanding its coverage from four sectors (electricity, gas, water and ports) to the following eleven critical infrastructure sectors:
The Government will also introduce positive security obligations requiring industry to consider the specific risks that impact on their operating environment and provide risk mitigation measures that ensure the continued operation of critical infrastructure assets. These will be progressed in phase two of the reforms, after further consultation with industry. While the SLA Bill provides definitions for asset classes across the 11 sectors, rules may be made to further define some of the asset classes. The Department of Home Affairs released a Critical Infrastructure Asset Definition Rules paper in April 2021 and engaged with the transport sector, including through roundtable discussions, to finalise definitions for critical freight infrastructure assets and critical freight services assets. The Department will provide the draft rules to the Minister for Home Affairs for their consideration. To reduce regulatory burden and build on existing frameworks, the Australian Government is also undertaking reforms to the Aviation Transport Security Act 2004 and the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 (the Acts) to implement an enhanced critical infrastructure regulatory framework for the aviation and maritime transport sectors. This will transition the Acts from a focus on unlawful interference (terrorism) to an ‘all hazards’ framework. This will support members of the aviation and maritime transport sector in protecting their critical operations from a broader range of risks through already established frameworks. The proposed amendments to the Acts are captured in the Transport Security Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2021 (Transport Security Bill). It is anticipated that the Transport Security Bill will be released for exposure in late 2021. |
| 3.4 | 312 | Reform of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) | Cth | Ongoing | The second ten-yearly independent review of the EPBC Act was completed in October 2020 and released on 28 January 2021. It is available at www.epbcactreview.environment.gov.au. The Australian Government is committed to consulting stakeholders on the recommendations of the review and undertaking a staged program of reforms informed by the EPBC Act Review. In June 2021, the Minister for the Environment released ‘A pathway for reforming national environmental law’ and a ‘Proposed timeline for EPBC Act reforms’ that together outline the reforms underway, the next steps and when the Government will engage with stakeholders. In the first stage of reform, the focus is delivering the National Cabinet commitment to single touch environmental approvals with states and territories underpinned by new National Environmental Standards with strong assurance. These reforms are aligned with the key findings of the review’s Final Report. Amendments to the EPBC Act are currently before the Parliament to deliver these reforms. |
| 3.4 | 313 | Streamlining environmental assessments | All | Ongoing | The Digital Environmental Assessment Program is a key initiative to transform the Australian Government’s environmental assessment and approval process to a user-focused digital platform that integrates systems and data across jurisdictions. The program is part of the Australian Government’s deregulation agenda and includes three distinct outputs:
These projects will see a transition from unstructured reports and non-reusable data to data collected in standard formatted for sharing and reuse. The portal and assessment system will be co-designed with the WA Government as a pilot, with a vision of national rollout if it is successful. The biodiversity repository will look at seeking a national approach to some biodiversity data standards and enable the different state or territory repositories to be linked, so data can be shared. The Australian Government allocated $26.8 million over three years from 2019-20 for the program. The program is on track and will deliver the new services by June 2022. |
| 3.4 | 314 | Review of national transport reforms | All | 2019 - 2020 | Complete. The Productivity Commission released its final report on National Transport Regulatory Reform on 1 October 2020. The report was commissioned by the Australian Government in 2019 to assess the economic impact of reforms agreed by the Council of Australian Governments in 2008-09. The Government is currently considering all recommendations within the report and undertaking consultation with regulators, jurisdictions and industry stakeholders to prepare a response. |
| 3.4 | 315 | Review of the Heavy Vehicle National Law | All | 2018 - 2023 | The National Transport Commission (NTC) is leading the Heavy Vehicle National Law Review. On 28 May 2021, Infrastructure and Transport Minsters endorsed the NTC’s program of work that will significantly progress final legislation to be presented to Minsters in mid-2023. The NTC will deliver more detailed advice to Ministers over the next 12 months on key areas of reform such as fatigue management, heavy vehicle access, increased use of higher productivity vehicles, assurance schemes, duties and driver health. Ministers agreed that options developed should be ambitious to realise productivity and safety benefits for industry and the economy more broadly. |
| 3.4 | 316 | Review of regulatory telematics | Cth | Ongoing | The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has partnered with state and territory transport agencies to progress a consistent approach to the use of technology to provide more flexible solutions that increase access and productivity. For example, the NHVR has been working with Transport for NSW to deliver the NSW Class 3 Livestock Transportation Livestock Transportation Exemption Notice 2021 (No.3). This Notice allows industry to use the lower cost and lower assurance Telematics Monitoring Application, instead of the previous Intelligence Access Program, and at the same time providing greater access and productivity benefits to the livestock industry. The NHVR is also progressing forums such as the National Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Working Group, National Telematics Framework Working Group and National Notice Advisory Group which help develop policies and share information and solutions to provide road managers with a better understanding of access-related technologies and best-practice approaches to the application of telematics for access and productivity improvement reasons. The NHVR is also progressing telematics related activities as part of the Safety and Compliance Regulatory Platform and NHVR intelligence capabilities and data analytics. Since the 2018 completion and approval of NHVR’s Electronic Work Diary standards, six technology companies have formally submitted applications regarding their devices and five have now been approved. The NHVR continues to actively work with all technology providers who have submitted applications to ensure there are no regulatory barriers to their device development programs. |
| 3.4 | 317 | Regulating the maritime industry | Cth | Ongoing | Part X of the Australian Government’s Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Part X) ensures that Australian shippers have continued access to adequate, frequent and reliable shipping services at internationally competitive freight rates while providing container shipping operators with exemptions from certain anti-competitive provisions of the Act. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is developing a class exemption for liner shipping in consultation with the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications and the shipping industry to provide more efficient and effective competition controls for container shipping. The class exemption for liner shipping process has been paused by COVID-19 and recent decisions of the Senate Standing Committee for the Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation. Any decision to repeal Part X and to introduce a class exemption for liner shipping is a matter for Government. |
| 3.4 | 318 | Coastal trading reform | Cth | Ongoing | Consultation on coastal trading reform is continuing. Consultation efforts resumed in September 2020 after delays through much of 2020 due to COVID-19. Consultation efforts have been initially focused on potential cargo reforms, with passenger reforms to be considered at a later date. On 21 September 2020, the Australian Government released a discussion paper proposing changes to the coastal trading framework for cargo vessels, with 44 submissions received from a broad range of stakeholders. Since the release of the discussion paper, the Australian Government has continued to engage with key stakeholders to address issues raised throughout the consultation process. In June 2021, the Special Recreational Vessels Act 2019 was amended to extend the repeal date of this Act by a further two years until 30 June 2023, to allow more time for a permanent regulatory solution to be developed. |
| 3.4 | 319 | Road vehicle standards regulation reform | Cth | Complete | Over 2020-21 a range of approval types were opened for applications in order to allow industry to prepare for the full commencement of the Road Vehicle Standard Act 2018 and associated legislation on 1 July 2021. This include applications for: Testing Facility Approvals; Component Type Approvals; Approved Vehicle Verifiers; and entries onto the register of Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles. As the transition period will commence on 1 July 2021, this item has been marked ‘complete’. |
| 3.4 | 320 | Audit of existing freight and supply chain regulation and reviews to identify areas of focus for future regulatory reform | Cth | Closed | This project has been superseded by the Productivity Commission’s National Transport Regulatory Reform Inquiry and the upcoming Australian Government response. |
| 3.4 | 321 | National regulatory framework for maritime regulation and service delivery — $11 million | Cth | 2018 - 2028 | On 23 October 2020, the Australian Government announced it is providing an additional $11 million to the national system for domestic commercial vessels. As domestic commercial vessels are largely non-freight related, this item will no longer be included in the annual progress report on the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy. |
| 3.4 | 322 | Regulatory activity regarding drones | Cth | 2021 - 2024 | The National Emerging Aviation Technologies Policy statement was released in May 2021. The policy statement articulates the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting the continued development of the sector and outlines the approach to managing and enabling this evolving market. Consultation with industry and government stakeholders has commenced to progress the key initiatives outlined in the policy statement. |
| 3.4 | 323 | Development and implementation of maritime safety and marine environment protection regulation | Cth | Ongoing | Australia has obligations under various international treaties and conventions on maritime safety and marine environment protection which directly affect the maritime freight sector. In June 2021, the International Maritime Organization adopted a global mandatory technical efficiency standard for international ships above 400 gross tonnage and an operational efficiency improvement measure for ships above 5000 gross tonnage for implementation from 2023. As a signatory to the International Convention on the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, the Australian Government will implement these mandatory measures in relevant domestic legislation to enforce compliance from 2023. The Government continues to lead Australia’s engagement in the International Maritime Organization to revise long-term ambitions and develop future measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. As the maritime regulator, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority also continues to deliver its program of work to review, consult on, and update Marine Orders and national standards to improve maritime safety and environmental outcomes, which directly impact the maritime freight sector. |
| 3.4 | 324 | Review regulations relating to airports | Cth | Ongoing | The Australian Government is continuing the sunset review of the 10 instruments under the Airports Act 1996, Sydney Airport Demand Management Act 1997 and Sydney Airport Curfew Act 1995. The review has been expanded to encompass the broader aviation and airports reform agenda for the industry in context of the aviation COVID-19 response. The Government has identified opportunities to work in partnership with airport lessee companies and other relevant stakeholders to revise current practices and ensure best practice regulation of airports. The Government will continue to work closely with the sector throughout the process of thematic review. |
| 3.4 | 325 | National Services Transition Program | Cth, NSW, Vic, SA, Qld, Tas, ACT | Complete | The Strategic Transition Assurance Review has been completed. SA, Tasmania, the ACT and Victoria have transitioned services to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, NSW has now passed legislation and is progressing its transition, and due diligence is under way to initiate the transition process for Queensland. |
| 3.4 | 326 | Review dangerous goods transport | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Development of a dangerous goods network policy is in progress, and will identify strategic priorities and actions to support and guide network decisions on the movement of dangerous goods. |
| 3.4 | 327 | Support the transfer of regulatory functions under the Heavy Vehicle National Law from Roads and Maritime and other state-based agencies to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator | NSW | 3 - 5 years | The transfer of heavy vehicle regulatory services to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator is currently in progress. The transition is expected to occur by mid-2022. |
| 3.4 | 328 | Support reforms to transport laws and regulatory bodies | NSW | 3 - 5 years | This initiative is in progress to support Infrastructure and Transport Ministers in reforming the Heavy Vehicle National Law through initiatives such as developing a national system for heavy vehicle registration and undertaking a national vehicle standards review relating to vehicle height and mass requirements. |
| 3.4 | 329 | Implement the NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Framework | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Completed. The NSW Government released the “NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Framework” in September 2018 with an implementation plan completed. |
| 3.4 | 330 | Legislative reform to ensure national harmonisation of laws | All | Ongoing | Queensland interacts positively and pro-actively with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and other jurisdictions to foster safe, sustainable and productive outcomes for the road freight industry. |
| 3.4 | 331 | Review of WA Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme | WA | Short term | WA completed its review of the WA Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme in 2019. A Stakeholder Reference Group has been established to assist in the exploration and delivery of the recommendations aimed at improving the accreditation process. Throughout 2020-21, WA has continued to work with the stakeholder reference group to explore the recommendations. To date, 12 recommendations have been addressed with a further five recommendations currently in hand. |
| 3.4 | 332 | Legislative reform to ensure national harmonisation of laws | WA | Medium term | WA has an ongoing commitment to collaborate on the development of national transport law and implement laws that enable national consistency in cases where the benefit to WA is clear. |
| 3.4 | 333 | Infrastructure Corridors Initiative | SA | TBD | This Study will examine the barriers and opportunities for key industry, mineral/resources and agribusiness/primary production sectors, and provide that will support the following intentions:
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| 3.4 | 334 | Participation in national regulatory initiatives | Tas | Ongoing | Tasmania will continue to support and participate in development and adoption of national standards and nationally consistent regulation, through existing legislative maintenance processes (road, rail, heavy vehicle and maritime), in order to enhance the safety and efficiency of freight task. |
| 3.4 | 335 | Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) | NTC, jurisdictions | Short term | The ACT applied all chapters of the HVNL on 1 July 2019 and transitioned services to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator at the same time. The ACT has also applied all HVNL and regulation amendments scheduled for commencement. The ACT continues to engage in the review of the HVNL through the arrangements agreed by Ministers, following consideration of the Consultation Regulation Impact Statement, under which the National Transport Commission will lead a number of projects and work streams to develop a Decision Regulation Impact Statement to be considered by Ministers. |
Action 3.1
Ensure freight demand is integrated in transport and land use planning across and between jurisdiction boundaries and freight modes
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- All levels of government to have coordinated, long-term strategic freight plans, strategies and initiatives that link to the National Strategy and relevant land use and transport planning documents.
- The identification and protection of current and future freight corridors and precincts from incompatible urban development.
- Coordinated and integrated planning for freight across jurisdictional boundaries, particularly in regional areas.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.1 | 213 | National Urban Freight Planning Principles | All | Ongoing | The National Urban Freight Planning Principles were endorsed by Infrastructure and Transport Ministers on 28 May 2021. From next year, each jurisdiction will report on their practical actions to implement the Principles through the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy annual reporting process. Some early actions include:
WA Planning Policies apply at all stages of the planning process and include policy measures for application at the strategic level through to site-specific development. It is also anticipated local planning strategies, prepared by local governments, will consider the principles where relevant to their jurisdictions. |
| 3.1 | 214 | Norfolk Island Freight Planning | Cth, Norfolk Island | 2018 - 2022 | The remoteness of Norfolk Island means it is heavily reliant on sea and air freight. The Australian Government supports air freight to Norfolk Island by underwriting air freight services to and from the Island to ensure the continued delivery of critical supplies such as fresh groceries, food and medicine. This air freight service is essential due to the very thin sea freight supply chain. Through a Ports Management Strategy for Norfolk Island, the Australian Government is examining options that may deliver a more robust and reliable supply chain for sea freight. The Australian Government is also investigating the potential to enable a greater range of vessels to serve Norfolk Island with containerised freight and using roll-on-roll-off shipping in the short term, allowing development and implementation of the permanent solutions under consideration in the Ports Management Strategy. |
| 3.1 | 215 | Launceston City Deal | Cth, Tas, local govt | 2017 - 2027 | The Launceston City Deal is a 10-year initiative between the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and the City of Launceston. One of the initiatives of the Launceston City Deal is the 2019 Regional Economic Development Strategy for Northern Tasmania. It outlines strategic priorities for economic development within Northern Tasmania including better integration of regional transport and land use planning to ensure efficient supply chain connections throughout the region and inter-regionally, and leveraging road, rail and air infrastructure investment to grow freight and warehousing related businesses. The Greater Launceston Transformation Project is a nation-leading $10.3 million collaborative smart cities project, focused on initiatives to improve service delivery and increase innovation across Greater Launceston. The project includes Traffic Signal infrastructure upgrades and the installation of smart traffic management technology which is now complete. This project was undertaken to enable development of a live traffic management system to manage traffic flows and provide the foundations for bus, freight and emergency vehicle prioritisation in the future. The Launceston Smart City Mobility Project, which began in March 2020, uses data from the sensors installed for the Launceston Traffic Signal Upgrade Project as well as the installation of additional sensors and trials of smart mobility technology. The project will support the development of a strategic multimodal transport model for Greater Launceston, which will inform the development of a transport plan and supporting transport strategies for the city. The Greater Launceston Metropolitan Passenger Transport Plan is a 10-year strategic document to guide future passenger transport development and investment in Greater Launceston. In 2021, the Greater Launceston Transport Vision was released. The Vision establishes a framework for the sustainable and accessible growth of Greater Launceston’s transport system to facilitate the city’s future growth. The objective of the Vision is to ensure people are connected to their place of work. shopping. schools, essential services and leisure activities. All levels of government are now considering how the implementation of the Vision can be supported under the City Deal framework. |
| 3.1 | 216 | Albury Wodonga Regional Deal | Cth, NSW, Vic, local govt | 2021 - 2031 | The Australian, Victorian and NSW Governments and the Albury City and City of Wodonga Councils are progressing the package of projects that will deliver for the community over the ten-year life of the deal. It is expected that the Deal will be signed in 2021. The Australian Government has provided funding of $3.2m to support development of the deal. |
| 3.1 | 217 | South East Queensland (SEQ) City Deal | Cth, Qld, local govt | TBC | City Deal partners are working closely together to consider priorities for the SEQ community in the context of recovery from COVID-19. The SEQ City Deal will seek to deliver a better connected region, create more jobs and support the region’s livability. |
| 3.1 | 218 | Hinkler Regional Deal | Cth, Qld, local govt | 2020 - 2025 | The first annual progress report on the Hinkler Regional Deal is expected to be released in August/September 2021. The Australian Government is working with deal partners (Fraser Coast Regional Council and Bundaberg Regional Council) and the Queensland Government to progress the land transport infrastructure projects tied to the Hinkler Deal. The multi-use bulk goods conveyor at the Port of Bundaberg will commence construction in late 2021/early 2022, and a pre-feasibility study on the future potential for an outer harbour will be completed in early 2022. The Queensland Government is developing a transport strategy to inform the Quay St upgrade. |
| 3.1 | 219 | Inland Rail Corridor Preservation | Cth, Vic, NSW, Qld | Ongoing | Victoria> The substantive corridor for the Inland Rail project via the North East Rail Line in Victoria already has sufficient protections in place. Small amounts of additional land may be required outside the existing corridor in order to deliver Inland Rail. These additional parcels will be considered on an as-needs basis as the project is delivered. The Victorian and Australian Governments are also jointly developing business cases for the Interstate Freight Precinct and Outer Metropolitan Ring corridor. Queensland The Land Acquisition Deed was signed in November 2020. Queensland has protected two sections of the proposed Inland Rail route. Protection of additional corridors is being considered and will be subject to agreements and Environmental Impact Statement approvals. Investigation and planning are underway to enable extensive resumptions to commence in 2022–23 but this is subject to planning and environmental approvals. |
| 3.1 | 220 | Townsville City Deal | Cth, Qld, local govt | 2016 - 2031 | The fourth annual progress report on the Townsville City Deal is expected to be released in conjunction with the findings of the three-year formal review in September 2021. The Australian Government is working with deal partners (the Queensland Government and Townsville City Council) to progress the transport infrastructure projects tied to the Deal. The Port of Townsville channel upgrade commenced construction in March 2020 and is expected to be completed in late 2023. Preservation of the Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor in ongoing. The Townsville Industrial Development Board was established in 2019 and meets quarterly to identify opportunities for industrial development in Townsville, including in the State Development Area southeast of the city. |
| 3.1 | 221 | Western Sydney City Deal | Cth, NSW, local govt | 2018 - 2038 | The Western Sydney City Deal is a 20-year partnership between the Australian and NSW Governments and eight local governments in the Western Parkland City that leverages the Australian Government’s investment in the Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport. Key freight-related initiatives in the Western Sydney City Deal include:
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| 3.1 | 222 | Hobart City Deal | Cth, Tas, local govt | 2019 - 2029 | The Hobart City Deal is a 10-year plan between the Australian and Tasmanian Governments and the Clarence, Hobart, Glenorchy and Kingborough councils. Key freight-related initiatives include:
Start of works on the Bridgewater Bridge Replacement project is expected to commence in 2022 with people driving on the new bridge by late 2024. Direct international flights between Hobart and Auckland re-commenced in April 2021 after more than 20years. The flights will boost international tourism to Tasmania and provide Tasmanian businesses with greater access to international markets. Direct flights to Hobart will also assist in building the city’s reputation as a gateway to Antarctica, which is another aim of the Hobart City Deal. Projects to reduce road congestion on the southern, northern and eastern inlets are progressing under the Hobart City Deal. |
| 3.1 | 223 | Liquid Fuel Security Review | Cth | Ongoing | The Interim Report of the Liquid Fuel Security Review was published in April 2019. The Liquid Fuel Security Review was created for the primary purpose of submission to Cabinet. Consideration about whether to release the Review is a decision for Government. The Government’s fuel security package, announced through the 2021-22 Budget, takes into consideration the major changes in the fuel market following the release of the Interim Report of the Liquid Fuel Security Review. |
| 3.1 | 224 | National Airports Safeguarding Framework | All | Ongoing | Australian Government: The Australian Government continues to promote the application of the National Airports Safeguarding Framework with jurisdictions through the Nationals Airports Safeguarding Advisory Group. The focus is on embedding the Framework into land use planning consistently across state and territory planning regimes. Victoria: The Melbourne Airport Environs Safeguarding Standing Advisory Committee, established in December 2019, continues to advise the Minister for Planning on further implementation of the National Airports Safeguarding Framework through the Victoria Planning Provisions and Planning Scheme. Queensland: Protecting key freight corridors and precincts is business as usual with key ports and airports and connecting road and rail corridors are mapped and protected. Additional corridors/precincts can be added as planning is undertaken and the corridor/ precinct is approved for protection. Western Australia: The WA Government is preparing a State Planning Policy to holistically address all matters in relation to land use planning and development in the vicinity of airports throughout WA, including matters of noise and safety. This work will have regard to the National Airports Safeguarding Framework and its application to regional airports. |
| 3.1 | 225 | Other City and Regional Deals | Cwth, State Govt and local govts | Various | Australian, State and Local Governments partner in other City and Regional Deals, including Adelaide, Perth, Darwin and Geelong, which do not include actions directly targeting freight. Although they include supporting actions (e.g. intersection improvements), these items will no longer be included in the annual progress report on the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy. |
| 3.1 | 226 | Deliver initiatives to improve the efficiency of urban freight | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW has published the Last Mile Toolkit to assist urban planners, developers and government to give greater consideration to freight and servicing demands for new buildings and precincts as part of the planning process. It also promotes better management of freight and servicing for existing buildings. Transport for NSW is also working with industry and local councils to develop solutions to enable off-peak deliveries to occur with appropriate mitigations to maintain community amenity and safety. This item ties in with initiative 204 under Action 2.4. |
| 3.1 | 227 | Review and update State planning policies to address issues around freight and port noise | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government is currently investigating how best to address noise issues from ports and intermodal terminals and are working with key agencies involved like the Environment Protection Authority’s Noise Management Working Group. |
| 3.1 | 228 | Support local councils to improve the amenity of key urban centres through good planning for freight and servicing in new developments | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW has published the Last Mile Toolkit to assist urban planners, developers and government to give greater consideration to freight and servicing demands for new buildings and precincts as part of the planning process. It also promotes better management of freight and servicing for existing buildings. Transport for NSW has also reviewed and commented on freight considerations for more than 100 Local Council Local Strategic Planning Statements in NSW in both Sydney and regional locations. |
| 3.1 | 229 | Ensure that freight and logistics land and corridors are identified and protected from sensitive land uses | NSW | Ongoing | This initiative is ongoing as Transport for NSW will continue to ensure that freight and logistics are considered in land use discussions, particularly around important trade gateways such as Port Botany, Sydney Harbour, Sydney Airport, the Western Sydney Airport and Newcastle Port.
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| 3.1 | 230 | Investigate options to amend the State Environmental Planning Policy (Three Ports) 2013 | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government temporarily amended the State Environmental Planning Policy (Three Ports) 2013 in November 2020 to allow greater flexibility regarding the storage of both full and empty containers. |
| 3.1 | 231 | Review and update the Development Near Rail Corridors and Busy Roads – Interim Guideline to ensure it reflects the latest evidence and practices | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW will continue to work with other NSW Government agencies on any updates. |
| 3.1 | 232 | Amplification of the Southern Sydney Freight Line | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Contract has been awarded and early works have commenced. |
| 3.1 | 233 | Highway Corridor Strategies | Cth, Vic, NSW, SA | Ongoing | The Victorian Government is collaborating with key stakeholders and interest groups in the preparation of several Transport Corridor Strategies to help guide future investment requirements, including for efficient freight movement, in regional Victoria. These strategies will feed into each region’s Regional Integrated Transport Plans and the broader pipeline of investment opportunities for funding consideration by governments. Corridor planning is under way across regional Victoria, including the Murray Valley Highway, Western Highway, Princes Highway West, Goulburn Valley Highway, Calder Highway and Sunraysia Highway. |
| 3.1 | 234 | Victorian Ports Strategy | Vic | 2020 - 2022 | The Independent Review of the Victorian Ports System was completed in November 2020 and a full government response to the review was approved by the Victorian Government in June 2021 and proposed for release in the second half of 2021. As a result, the Victorian Commercial Ports Strategy will be developed over the next 12 months and is expected to be released in mid-2022. |
| 3.1 | 235 | Identify and reserve sites for new freight terminals and precincts | Vic | Ongoing | The Victorian Government has partnered with the Municipal Association of Victoria on a two-year program to assist with engagement of local councils to deliver or contribute to a range of freight projects. This project may be included in the two-year program of work. The Municipal Association of Victoria has commenced early scoping and consultation with local councils to understand local freight issues and establish a Freight Policy Reference Group. |
| 3.1 | 236 | Green Triangle Freight Action Plan | Vic, SA | 2009 - TBC | A steering committee has been established and meets regularly to progress the actions under the updated Plan. $40 million of funding has been previously committed, and a further $80 million has been committed by the Australian Government under the Roads of Strategic Importance program. This funding will be invested in asset renewal of road corridors critical for the Green Triangle freight task, including bridge strengthening for High Productivity Freight Vehicles, and further planning work to cater for future renewable energy freight activities. See similar item under South Australia. |
| 3.1 | 237 | Supply Chain Strategy for the North West Minerals Province | Qld | 2019 - 2023 | To support key enabling infrastructure for the North West Minerals Province, the Queensland Government is providing $80 million over four years ($20 million each year) through the Mount Isa Line Incentive Scheme to incentivise more freight on rail on the Mount Isa Line and encourage a shift from road to rail. The Queensland Government has allocated $50 million to the Mount Isa Line specifically for capacity and resilience improvements over the next four years. Projects include:
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| 3.1 | 238 | Action Plan implementation arrangements | All | Ongoing | The Queensland Freight Action Plan (QFAP) was publicly released on 28 September 2020 and is made up of five Shared Commitments, two Critical Enablers, 11 Delivery Statements, 21 Actions, 47 Activities and 128 Deliverables. The QFAP forms Queensland’s plan for the implementation of the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy’s National Action Plan. Queensland’s commitments to national freight agenda expressed in the National Action Plan are elements of the QFAP. |
| 3.1 | 239 | Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor | Qld, Cth | Ongong | In 2019–20, following a review of land requirements for the Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor to determine the extent of required land acquisitions, the Queensland Government commenced stakeholder engagement with impacted landowners. This will be ongoing during the land acquisitions. Planning for environmental approval requirements of the infrastructure corridor is in-progress. The Australian and Queensland Governments have committed $10 million ($5 million each) to preserve the corridor. The Queensland Government has expended $600,000 to date. |
| 3.1 | 240 | Port of Brisbane Rail Access Corridor Preservation | Qld, Cth | 2022 | The findings of the 2019 Port of Brisbane Strategic Rail Access Study are being considered by the Australian and Queensland governments. Subject to the findings of the Port of Brisbane Strategic Rail Access Study, the next phase aims to progress planning to investigate detailed options and timing for a potential dedicated freight corridor to the Port of Brisbane. The project is wholly funded by the Australian Government with the Queensland Government providing an in-kind contribution. |
| 3.1 | 241 | Identify and protect freight and logistics land, corridors and precincts | WA | Short term | The WA Government is committed to participating in national forums and assisting in the identification and protection of WA freight and logistics, land, corridors, and precincts, including ongoing implementation of the Perth and Peel @ 3.5 million suite of land use planning and infrastructure frameworks. |
| 3.1 | 242 | City and Regional Deals | Cth, WA, local govt | Short term | A City Deal for Perth was announced in September 2020, including several active transport elements in the Perth CBD area. These projects are jointly funded by the Australian and WA Governments and local governments. A full implementation plan is expected to be available by the end of 2021. There has been no further discussion on regional deals. |
| 3.1 | 243 | Review of Road Strategies (Roads 2030) | WA | Short term | In September 2019, the WA Government commenced its review of ROADS 2030 Regional Development Strategies. The aim of the review is to create new documents (ROADS 2040) for each regional road group (or sub-group) for identifying regional strategies for regionally significant local government roads. The WA Government has partnered with the WA Local Government Authority to deliver the review and it is expected to be completed in the latter half of 2021. |
| 3.1 | 244 | Implement State Planning Policy 5.4 (road and rail noise) | WA | Short term | Ongoing implementation of State Planning Policy 5.4 is informed by road and rail noise guidelines and state-wide mapping of strategic freight routes, significant freight/traffic routes, and proposed strategic freight routes. |
| 3.1 | 245 | Perth and Peel @3.5 million frameworks | WA | Short term | The Perth and Peel @3.5 million Strategy provides a spatial plan for metropolitan Perth, including freight corridors. Review of Planning Investigation Areas identified in the Perth and Peel @ 3.5 million suite of land use and infrastructure frameworks continues. |
| 3.1 | 246 | Outback Way – Upgrade and Seal | WA | the | The first Outback Way works package to seal the Great Central Road is well underway, with 20km of the first 40km now sealed. Earthworks have started to prepare for sealing of the next 20km section, which is due for completion in October 2021. Project development for delivery of the next work package has started. This includes a 10km section near Warburton and a 3km section near Warakuna. Construction is expected to begin in late 2021. The WA Government is also planning for delivery of a future work package near the Cosmo Newberry Community, 84km east of Laverton. |
| 3.1 | 247 | Planning reform — (Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act 2016) | SA | Complete | The Planning and Design Code came into effect in the urban areas of South Australia from 19 March 2021. |
| 3.1 | 248 | Green Triangle Freight Action Plan | SA | Ongoing | The Implementation Monitoring Group meets regularly to progress the actions under the updated Green Triangle Freight Action Plan. The Australian Government allocated $20 million to future priorities in Victoria within the Green Triangle in the 2021-22 Budget. See similar item under Victoria. |
| 3.1 | 249 | Development of transport analytics, data analysis and application (new) | SA | Ongoing | SA has established the Transport Analytics Directorate to provide core leadership and specialist expertise on data, analytics and modelling. Data visualisation tools are in development. SA has acquired access to CSIRO’s Transport Network Strategic Investment Tool to improve level of freight data available to inform planning activities. |
| 3.1 | 250 | Restricted Access Vehicle Network Development Study (new) | SA | April - October 2021 | See Restricted Access Vehicle Network Development Study under Action 1.2. |
| 3.1 | 251 | Greater Hobart MetroPlan | Tas | 2020 - ongoing | The Greater Hobart Act 2019 provides a legislated governance framework to better align strategic land use and infrastructure planning within the Greater Hobart Area (Clarence, Glenorchy, Hobart and Kingborough councils). The Greater Hobart MetroPlan will provide a high-level spatial representation to guide future growth and development in Hobart over the next 30 years, considering forecast population and dwelling growth, and the location of major new residential development, commercial centres and industrial hubs. Importantly the MetroPlan will seek to ensure that key infrastructure providers are involved in development of the MetroPlan to better align infrastructure planning with future growth. It is expected that the MetroPlan will be reviewed every three to five years and updated as required. |
| 3.1 | 252 | ACT Planning Strategy | ACT | Short term | In accordance with the ACT Planning Strategy 2018, decisions regarding the strategic location of growth, particularly for new employment and industrial areas, continue to have regard to existing freight networks and requirements. The ACT Government continues to engage across jurisdictional boundaries by providing input to the NSW Government and surrounding local councils on strategic planning matters concerning freight. |
| 3.1 | 253 | Progressing a planning and statutory environmental approval process | ACT | Short term | The ACT Government continues to progress statutory strategic assessment approval processes under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) for the Eastern Broadacre area. This process will determine the locations for future rezoning of land for new industrial and employment precincts in parts of the eastern side of Canberra, near Canberra Airport and along national freight routes. Freight requirements will be a key consideration in the future, more detailed subdivision planning of resultant precincts. |
Action 3.2
Strengthen the consideration of freight in all other government planning and decision-making
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- All levels of Australian government to become 'freight aware'.
- Freight considerations to form part of all relevant government decision-making.
- Australia's freight network operators and users to be aware of their vulnerabilities and be developing strategies to manage their climate and disaster risks.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.2 | 254 | Development of Australian Transport Assessment and Planning urban freight modelling guidelines | All | 2020 - 2021 | The Australian Transport Assessment and Planning urban freight modelling guidelines were finalised in April 2021. The guidelines will ensure consistency in modelling freight demand, or heavy vehicle movements, in urban transport models across jurisdictions. They are available at https://www.atap.gov.au/tools-techniques/index. |
| 3.2 | 255 | National Urban Planning Forum | Cth | 2021 | Complete. The National Urban Freight Planning Principles were endorsed by Infrastructure and Transport Ministers on 28 May 2021. The Principles reflect outcomes from public consultation with over 60 organisations and individuals across the planning sector and freight industry. The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications held three online public focus groups to seek feedback on draft Principles on 18 December 2020, 19 January 2021 and 21 January 2021. These focus groups were supported by an online survey from 24 November to 18 December 2020. |
| 3.2 | 256 | National Urban Freight Planning Principles | All | Ongoing | See item of the same name under Action 3.1. |
| 3.2 | 257 | Assist local councils to plan for freight needs | NSW | Ongoing | See item of the same name under Action 1.2. |
| 3.2 | 258 | Bay West Container Port | Vic | 2021 - TBD | The Victorian Government is progressing with the development of a Victorian Commercial Ports Strategy, due in mid-2022. The development of the Ports Strategy will incorporate next steps for planning and securing Bay West as Victoria’s second container port. This item will be reported on under Victorian Ports Strategy under Action 3.1 in future reports. |
| 3.2 | 259 | Review and enhance protection of Principal Freight Network | Vic | TBC | The Victorian Government has progressed work on the Principal Freight Network review, conducting a detailed assessment to recommend changes to the network. Preparations are being made to conduct external stakeholder consultation to enable finalisation of the changes to the updated network maps. The Victorian Government is currently reviewing options for how best to integrate proposed strengthened planning protections for the network into the Victoria Planning Provisions, as part of a wider review of the planning provisions. |
| 3.2 | 260 | Dynon Freight Precinct Master Planning | Vic | TBC | A program of work to establish a strategic policy position on the long-term use of the Dynon precinct is underway. The Victorian Planning Authority has developed a Dynon Framework Plan, which is a land use strategy that helps integrate and coordinate the precincts various port, freight, transport and urban renewal opportunities. The Framework is an internal Victorian Government document which confirms governments’ intentions for the area and will guide the next phase of detailed precinct planning and investment. In late 2019, VicTrack undertook an Expression of Interest) market process for the lease of land at Melbourne Market/ South Dynon rail precinct between Dynon Road and Footscray Road. The Expression of Interest sought proposals regarding the use of the site in the short-, medium- and long-term. Further strategic planning work is underway to inform the next stage Request for Proposal. The VicTrack Melbourne Market Request or Proposal is in progress and closed June 2021. Assessments will include probity management advice. Scoping for a final stage of Dynon Master planning is about to commence in consultation with VicTrack, with an extension of the agreement sought in June 2021 to enable work to continue through 2021-22. |
| 3.2 | 261 | Reviewing and updating state and territory planning policies relating to freight | All | Short term | Queensland has commenced development of integrated multi-modal Regional Freight Plans to identify and prioritise freight network improvements to support supply chain efficiency across the region. |
| 3.2 | 262 | Master Planning for Priority Ports | Qld | Ongoing | Priority port master planning will support the sustainable development of critical economic port infrastructure in a way that will balance growth, job creation, environmental values and community interests. Final port overlays for the ports of Gladstone and Townsville came into effect on 1 February 2021. The port overlays operate alongside existing planning instruments to guide future development and achieve the long-term visions of the master plans. Master planning for the priority ports of Hay Point/Mackay and Abbot Point has formally commenced with a notice of proposal issued to the port authority and local governments on 5 May 2021, in accordance with Sustainable Ports Development Act 2015. |
| 3.2 | 263 | Bundaberg State Development Area Development Scheme | Qld | Ongoing | Investigation and planning for transhipping, bulk storage and trial shipment infrastructure, and planning for access to facilities including new port access road is ongoing. Hinkler Regional Deal implementation support has been provided to Gladstone Ports Corporation and Sugar Terminals Ltd for the common use conveyor business case development and associated commercial opportunities. $1 million has been provided through Unite & Recover State funding and implementation support for common use bulk storage and trial shipment facilities involving remediation of the old Stolthaven site and case management of proposed private sector investors at Port of Bundaberg. Pacific Marine Base Bundaberg are commencing construction of Stage 1 of their proposed $35 million Marine Industry Site at the Port of Bundaberg. Stage 1 of the project will deliver a 180m long land backed wharf and berth pocket which could see the facility support sea freight transport and break bulk for renewables project cargoes. |
| 3.2 | 264 | Westport: Ports and Environs Strategy | WA | Long term | Planning is now underway to identify design options for a new container port in Kwinana and associated transport corridors that are sustainable and meet operational requirements; identify potential land requirements; and determine when and how the new infrastructure should be delivered. |
| 3.2 | 265 | Reviewing and upgrading state and territory planning policies relating to freight | WA | Short term | The WA Government is committed to participating in national forums and assisting in reviewing and upgrading planning policies. SPP 5.4 - Road and Rail Noise has been in operation since September 2019, and has objectives that include:
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| 3.2 | 266 | Ports Master Plan | WA | Short term | The details of Port Master Plans for WA’s five Port Authorities are as follows:
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| 3.2 | 267 | Review of Perth inner city freight movements | WA | Medium term | The Phase 2 report of the Perth Greater CBD Transport Plan is currently being finalised and is expected to be provided to the WA Minister for Transport and released later in 2021. Development of the Plan included the examination of inner-city freight movements, including a study and survey conducted by the City of Perth. Proposed projects to support urban freight that will be implemented between 2021 and 2024 include a project looking to improve deliveries to the mall super block; a study of kerbside access (including loading zones); and the exploration of technological efficiencies which could assist in optimising movement of freight vehicles. Detailed scoping of these projects is currently taking place. |
| 3.2 | 268 | Rolling 10 Year Tasmanian Infrastructure Pipeline | Tas | 2020 - 2030 | The pipeline maps out planned infrastructure development for the next decade, with projects totalling an estimated $17.4 billion – an estimated $3.1 billion of these are expected to be delivered between 2020 and 2022, including an Australian Government investment of $401 million in roads and bridges for 2020-21 alone. The Pipeline was released in February 2021 and will now move to six-monthly updates. |
| 3.2 | 269 | Release draft 30 Year Infrastructure Strategy for consultation | Tas | 2019 - 2049 | As part of the Tasmanian Government’s long-term planning for Tasmania’s future, a draft 30-year Infrastructure Strategy was released in 2019 for consultation. Following this, Tasmania will now develop a framework to inform the Government’s infrastructure investment decisions, given their large cost and long-term nature. The final Strategy will be informed by work done by Infrastructure Australia and will help unlock further economic development in the State. |
| 3.2 | 270 | Tasmanian Planning Policies | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | The Tasmanian Planning Policies will acknowledge the importance of protecting the capacity, safety and efficiency of transport networks and assets. The policies will include specific strategies that seek to protect existing and future strategic transport infrastructure corridors and assets from encroachment by incompatible land use and development. |
| 3.2 | 271 | Review of Regional Land Use Strategies | Tas | 2021 – 2023 | Protection of freight corridors and assets are considered in each of the three Regional Land Use Strategies in Tasmania. A future review of these strategies will form part of a broader reform of the Tasmanian planning system. |
| 3.2 | 272 | Tasmanian Planning Scheme | Tas | 2019 - 2022 | The Tasmanian Planning Scheme was developed in conjunction with key industry stakeholders to ensure appropriate consideration was afforded to the industrial and transport sectors. Consequently, key protections such as attenuation and buffer areas are in place along key transport networks and other assets. |
| 3.2 | 273 | Canberra Region Joint Organisation’s (CRJO) Transport and Freight Infrastructure Prospectus | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT continues to participate as an Associate Member in the CRJO. Through the CRJO the ACT has supported the development of the CRJO Transport and Freight Infrastructure Prospectus. The ACT will continue to work with the CRJO to identify and promote the key regional infrastructure needs to support the growth of the region. |
| 3.2 | 274 | ACT-NSW Memorandum of Understanding for Regional Collaboration | ACT, NSW | Ongoing | The ACT-NSW Memorandum of Understanding for Regional Collaboration was re-signed in 2020 by the ACT and NSW. It includes in its priority work areas a commitment to work together and with the Canberra Region Joint Organisation to develop a Canberra Region Economic Development Strategy. This Strategy is expected to include joint priorities to support growth and diversification in the Canberra Region economy, including consideration of issues such as freight in government planning and decision-making as it relates to the Canberra Region. The Memorandum of Understanding also commits to the development of a regional infrastructure priority list. Freight considerations will be a key input into this work. |
Action 3.3
Investigate policy, planning and operational solutions to improve freight access and movement along domestic and international supply chains
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- The length of the national road network approved for access-by-notice or as-of-right access for restricted access vehicles to be increased as appropriate.
- Pricing and access to infrastructure that encourages efficient movement of freight.
- Increased consistency and predictability of access for supply chain operators, by reducing the administrative burden related to route approval processes.
- More reliable rail freight movement on mixed use networks, particularly in metropolitan areas.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.3 | 275 | Funding to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to undertake road access improvements for heavy vehicles — $20.1 million | Cth | 2019 - 2024 | The 2019-20 Budget allocated $8 million over two years to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to fund the Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project (SLGAAP) which is undertaking engineering assessments for local government owned road network infrastructure, and to build an asset collection database. At 30 June 2021, almost 300 local government assets have been assessed across more than 60 local government areas as part of the SLGAAP. In addition to asset assessments, the project has delivered education and awareness to local governments and developed tools to support both local governments and heavy vehicle operators. In the 2021-22 Budget, the Australian Government has allocated a further $12.1m over three years (2021–2024) to continue the SLGAAP. |
| 3.3 | 276 | Encourage use of the Restricted Access Vehicle Route Assessment Tool | All | Ongoing | The Restricted Access Vehicle Route Assessment Tool has been developed by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and the Australian Road Research Board. It is designed as an expert tool for local government practitioners and is intended to allow heavy vehicle route assessments to be completed in line with Performance-Based Standards route classification guidelines. The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator actively promotes the use of the tool and it is free for local governments from participating jurisdictions. Victoria The Victorian Government has partnered with the Municipal Association of Victoria on a two-year program to assist with engagement of local councils to deliver or contribute to a range of freight projects. Freight access issues will be considered as part of this work. The Municipal Association of Victoria has commenced early scoping and consultation with local councils to understand local freight issues and establish a Freight Policy Reference Group. Queensland Queensland has recently undertaken technical heavy vehicle route assessment training in Rockhampton, Townsville and Roma. Local government engineers were present at these sessions, except where COVID-19 restrictions limited participation. |
| 3.3 | 277 | Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme | Cth | Ongoing | On 11 May 2021, the Australian Government announced the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme (TFES) was being extended to provide assistance for eligible imported goods, which are shipped to Tasmania via a mainland port and where there is no Australian equivalent good. Extending TFES assistance to the shipment of eligible imported goods further reduces the additional transports costs incurred by Tasmanian businesses that ship goods across Bass Strait, in the absence of the road and rail options available on the mainland. Claimants will be able to lodge their TFES imported goods claim online from 1 October 2021, for eligible imported goods shipped from the mainland to Tasmania on or after 1 July 2021. |
| 3.3 | 278 | A national framework for high productivity vehicles | Cth | Ongoing | Led by the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), a working group has been established to share information regarding Performance Based Standards (PBS) vehicles and to encourage the development of nationally consistent PBS vehicle network access/investment plans. Work is progressing and, on 1 August 2020, the NHVR issued the National Class 2 Road Train Authorisation Notice 2020 (No. 2), which expands the road network available to a broader range of road trains. The NHVR has partnered with state and territory transport agencies to deliver the national notices, including the development of a PBS Notice for Tier 1 PBS Vehicles. This enables lower-risk PBS vehicles that meet the PBS Tier 1 bridge formulae to access approved networks without a permit, providing access under notice for a more diverse range of PBS vehicles. |
| 3.3 | 279 | National Harmonisation Program | Cth | Ongoing | The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is leading the National Harmonisation Program to improve heavy vehicle regulation consistency. The key objectives of this program are to minimise the compliance burden on the heavy vehicle transport industry, reducing duplication and inconsistencies across state and territory borders. The NHVR is continuing the National Harmonisation Program and has commenced a review of the National Grain Harvest Management and National Livestock Loading Schemes. In 2020, the NHVR established a National Heavy Vehicle Notice Advisory Group to provide a forum in which the NHVR and state and territory government members may discuss notice development – ensuring that national outcomes are supported as much as possible with input accounting for local needs and knowledge. |
| 3.3 | 280 | Delegations project | Cth | Completed | The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) coordinates a range of access applications from start to finish, liaising directly with industry and road managers to manage applications and issue permits. While the NHVR processes all Class 2 and Class 3 permit applications, it is assisted by state and territory governments in processing some Class 1 permit applications made under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. The National Operational Strategy and Policy Advisory Group has endorsed the return of all access permit delegations and processing back to the NHVR. The NHVR Return of Delegations Project officially concluded on 30 June 2020 and the NHVR now processes all heavy vehicle road access applications and issues permits in all participating states and territories. |
| 3.3 | 281 | Reforming the Performance-Based Standards scheme | Cth | Ongoing | The National Transport Commission is currently reviewing the Heavy Vehicle National Law, which includes provisions dealing with Performance Based Standards design approvals. Separately, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator is progressively reviewing specific standards contained in the Performance Based Standards (PBS) scheme. The revised Frontal Swing Standard was implemented in April 2020 and the Stability Under Braking (DSUB) standard was endorsed by Infrastructure and Transport Ministers in May 2021. DSUB implementation will commence from 2021-2022.These updated standards will improve safety and productivity. In May 2021, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers also approved introducing a Generic Tyre Approach within the PBS Scheme. The NHVR will continue to review the administrative, regulatory, and procedural and policy aspects of the PBS scheme to determine how it can ensure the scheme is best positioned to support the next generation of innovative vehicles and further promote industry uptake. |
| 3.3 | 282 | Inland Rail intermodal terminals planning | Cth, Vic, NSW, Qld | 2019 - 2022 | The Australian Government and the Queensland Government are currently progressing an intermodal terminal business case that will look at intermodal needs to support Inland Rail within South East Queensland. To date a preliminary evaluation of several possible South East Queensland sites against Inland Rail’s service requirements has taken place. This investigation remains ongoing with a detailed business case for a preferred site to be provided by June 2022. Ten of the 35 successful project proposals under the Australian Government’s Interface Improvement Program are based in Queensland. Specialist advisors from Ernst and Young (EY) have been engaged by the Australian Government to review the proposals and to recommend whether they should proceed for further development as feasibility studies and strategic business cases. Queensland is assisting EY with information and data to support the evaluation of the proposals. The Australian and Victorian governments are currently undertaking further work considering intermodal terminal requirements in Melbourne including to support Inland Rail. See Western Interstate Freight Terminal and Development of Inland Rail terminals in Melbourne and Brisbane under Action 1.1 and the Inland Rail Interface Improvement Program under Action 1.2. |
| 3.3 | 283 | Build local government road network asset management and maintenance capability | Cth | This item will be reported on under Funding to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to undertake road access improvements for heavy vehicles under Action 3.3. | |
| 3.3 | 284 | Streamline the heavy vehicle road access approval process | All | Ongoing | The outcomes of the Oversize Overmass (OSOM) Vehicle Access Arrangements Review outlined 38 recommendations that the OSOM Working Group progressed. In January 2021, the Working Group agreed that 31 of the 38 recommendations have been completed. It was also agreed that the remaining seven recommendations would be progressed through the National Transport Commissions proposed work plan for the Heavy Vehicle National Law review.A key outcome of the OSOM review was a more streamlined access approval process that encourages the development of pre-approvals and notices to replace permits, where possible, providing industry with greater efficiency and certainty, through reducing permit issue timeframes or removing permit requirements respectively. In August 2020, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) released its Heavy Vehicle Productivity Plan (the Plan) 2020-2025. One objective of the Plan is to partner with local government to build capability. This objective aims to deliver a program of online technical training sessions to improve local government knowledge and understanding of heavy vehicle mass and dimension, performance, and route assessment.Through the first round of the Strategic Local Government Asset Assessment Project (see Funding to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator to undertake road access improvements for heavy vehicles, above), the NHVR has also developed a Local Government Asset Assessment Toolkit that is supporting road managers by standardising an approach to heavy vehicle assessments. The NHVR engagement hub includes a comprehensive interactive mapping tool that allows road managers and industry across Australia to identify bridges and culverts with restricted heavy vehicle access. Two further initiatives the NHVR has partnered with the Australian Government, state and territory transport agencies and Austroads to provide road managers with information and guidelines to improve understanding of heavy vehicles and road freight include:
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| 3.3 | 285 | Domestic Border Controls – Freight Movements Protocol | All | 2020 | The Freight Movement Protocol and Code were agreed by National Cabinet in mid-2020. They provide a consistent national framework for cross-border land freight movements, including for heavy vehicle drivers and rail crew crossing domestic borders. The Protocol and Code have supported the movement of freight during border closures and lockdowns throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. On 23 July 2021, the National Cabinet agreed Infrastructure and Transport Ministers work with the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee to develop an updated nationally consistent testing regime for freight workers under the Code in light of recent developments with COVID-19. |
| 3.3 | 286 | Road Vehicle Standards legislation implementation | Cth | Complete | See Road vehicle standards regulation reform under Action 3.4. |
| 3.3 | 287 | Options evaluation for a National Heavy Vehicle Access Assessment System (new) | All, Austroads | TBD | Building on a prior Scoping Study (Publication no: AP-R634-20 – see https://austroads.com.au/publications) delivered in September 2020, this Austroads project is to confirm the rationale, define and evaluate options for a National Heavy Vehicle Access Assessment System that improves on network access transparency and certainty for PBS, other heavy vehicles, and oversize/overmass vehicle classes. |
| 3.3 | 288 | Fund infrastructure assessment and upgrades to increase heavy vehicle road access | NSW | Short term | See initiative of the same name under Action 1.2. |
| 3.3 | 289 | Progressing freight and export opportunities identified in the economic analysis of direct international air-freight options and Future Transport 2056 | NSW; ACT | The NSW Government has undertaken a Registration of Interest (ROI) process seeking nominations for potential enabling infrastructure projects that would improve supply chains to domestic and export markets. The ROI process closed in March 2021. | |
| 3.3 | 290 | Implementation of the Independent Review of Oversize Over mass Access Arrangements recommendations | All | 2020 - 2021 | Queensland has successfully contributed to the recent implementation and gazettal of the National Long Road Train Prime Mover Notice. Queensland is currently developing input to the Special Purpose Vehicle Notice, Special Purpose Vehicle Combination Notice and Tier 1 and Tier 3 PBS Notices. |
| 3.3 | 291 | Fund infrastructure assessment and upgrades to increase heavy vehicle road access | All | Ongoing | The Queensland Government’s Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme ($70 million) is delivered as an annual grant allocation to Regional Roads and Transport Groups. |
| 3.3 | 292 | Improve training and education programs for local road managers | All | Ongoing | Queensland has recently undertaken technical heavy vehicle route assessment training in Rockhampton, Townsville and Roma. Local government engineers were present at these sessions, except where COVID-19 restrictions limited participation. |
| 3.3 | 293 | Improvement management and use of loading zones in key urban centres | All | Short term | The South East Queensland Regional Transport Plan recognises urban freight and goods delivery within the region and requires adequate physical space for loading and deliveries. |
| 3.3 | 294 | Investigate scheduling and operating procedures to improve rail freight access and flows | All | 2021 | A long-term Rail Network Strategy is being prepared to inform future rail planning and coordination, in addition to sequencing of network improvements over the long-term. |
| 3.3 | 295 | South East Queensland Urban Freight Strategy | Qld | Ongoing | The South East Queensland Regional Transport Plan 2021 identifies several actions to ensure goods and services move efficiently and reliably along supply chains to and between key economic areas and markets. These actions include:
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| 3.3 | 296 | Independent review of Oversize Overmass Access Arrangements Recommendations | WA | 2020 - 2021 | Complete. The Oversize Overmass Working Group has completed its tenure and has been wound up by the Australian Government. Three packages of work have been defined based on the Oversize Over Mass review recommendations:
See Streamline the heavy vehicle road access approval process under Action 3.3 for more information. |
| 3.3 | 297 | Fund infrastructure assessment and upgrades to increase heavy vehicle road access | WA | Short term | WA continues to participate in national forums and undertake infrastructure assessments to upgrade Restricted Access Vehicles access. |
| 3.3 | 298 | Improve training and education programs for local road managers regarding restricted access vehicle permit processes | WA | Short term | WA continues to participate in national training and education forums for local road managers. In 2020-21 WA reinvigorated its state-wide Heavy Vehicle workshops and information sessions. These sessions provide local road managers and industry an opportunity to meet face to face with WA heavy vehicle staff and discuss local heavy vehicle issues including the provision of training and education around heavy vehicle access. |
| 3.3 | 299 | Improve management and use of loading ones in key urban centres | WA | Short term | Consultation and research conducted as part of the development of the Perth CBD Transport Plan identified that growing demand and increasing competition for access to limited kerbside space made guidance a priority. The Plan proposes that a framework be developed to present potential solutions for management and prioritisation of kerbside space, including loading zones. |
| 3.3 | 300 | Investigate scheduling and operating procedures to improve rail freight access and flows | WA | Short term | WA will continue to review requests for additional or ad-hoc train pathways and action them as capacity permits. WA has provided input to the Swan River Crossing project to ensure that rail capacity into Fremantle port is not reduced due to the replacement of the existing river crossings at Fremantle. Arc Infrastructure is implementing the Enhanced Network Control Program, which will transform how the rail freight network is managed and operated, as it moves from a conventional signal and voice authority-based train control system to a communication-based train management system. |
| 3.3 | 301 | Growth State | SA | Ongoing | Nine priority sectors have been identified as focus areas because of their strong potential to meet increasing interstate and global demand, attract investors and leverage comparative advantages. These include food, wine and agribusiness and energy and mining. Relevant state agencies are working with industry to develop sector plans which inform SA infrastructure investment priorities to support the achievement of State economic growth targets. |
| 3.3 | 302 | Le Fevre Peninsula Master Plan | SA | Ongoing | A complementary transport study was completed in 2019, focussing on the impacts of development of the Osborne Naval Shipyard. Planning work is continuing to ensure that increased workforce movement in the area does not adversely impact bulk and container supply chains. |
| 3.3 | 303 | Time Sensitive Freight – Understanding Tasmania’s Market | Tas | Ongoing | The Tasmanian Government is undertaking a study to determine the size and value of Tasmania’s time sensitive freight market to assist in the identification of reliable data sources by commodity and better understand potential future growth. |
| 3.3 | 304 | Maintaining National Freight Routes | ACT, NHVR | Ongoing | Planning and maintaining nationally significant freight routes in the ACT is ongoing and endeavours to enhance both freight capacity and network resilience (bushfire hazard and natural disaster) in the ACT region. As this also closely relates to the adjoining cross border transport infrastructure priorities, this means that future policy and planning must increasingly be a shared responsibility between the ACT, adjoining jurisdictions, transport operators, freight bodies and other organisations advocating for these freight needs and anticipated growth. The ACT continues to maintain up-to-date national freight maps, through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, for existing approved routes for all restricted access vehicle networks (B-double, Higher Mass Limits, Performance-Based Standards Level 1 and Level 2, 14.5 tonne buses, over dimension vehicles). |
| 3.3 | 305 | Progressing freight and export opportunities identified in the economic analysis of direct international air-freight options and the NSW Future Transport 2056 | ACT, NSW | Ongoing | Canberra Airport released their 2020 Master Plan in early 2020, with a focus on freight and air freight opportunities including more direct international flights, a new runway, and an increased freight capacity. As initial air freight in Canberra has been exclusively transported on commercial passenger flights, this has meant that flight restrictions due to COVID-19 has limited implementation during 2020-21. |
| 3.3 | 306 | Work with Canberra Airport, Qatar Airways, local businesses and councils | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT Government continues to work closely with NSW, the Canberra Region Joint Organisation, PAK Fresh Handling, Menzies Aviation and the Canberra Airport to deliver a region roadshow and to profile the growing capability and capacity of moving regional produce to international markets through Canberra.
COVID has limited implementation during 2020-21. |
| 3.3 | 307 | Priorities for Australia’s Biosecurity System - $313 million | Cth | 2018 - 2023 | Much of this investment is ongoing and measures have been embedded into the Australian Government’s enhanced biosecurity capability. This is being supported by a $400 million package of biosecurity measures, announced in the 2021-22 Budget, including a focus on expanding offshore assurance arrangements and overseas supply integration, improved regulatory tools and information, and rolling out advancements in detection technologies and business practice innovations. |
Action 3.4
Improve regulation to be more outcomes focused and risk-based to support innovation and reduce regulatory burden whilst maintaining safety, security and sustainability
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- Inefficient regulations impacting on productivity to be amended to support efficient freight supply chains and facilitate the adoption of new technology.
- A strengthened national laws approach for road and rail and its extension to dangerous goods.
- Regulatory reform to improve the viability of coastal shipping.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.4 | 308 | Air Cargo Security Reforms | Cth | 2022 | Australia’s air cargo security regulatory framework continues to be strengthened to ensure that the air cargo supply chain is secure from acts of unlawful interference. All export air cargo, and the vast majority of domestic air cargo, is now subject to piece-level examination. Examination at additional domestic airports will commence from 1 July 2022. |
| 3.4 | 309 | Simplified Trade System (STS) (new) NB: replaces the Trade Modernisation Agenda | Cth | 2024 | In 2020–21, the Australian Border Force, in partnership with key border agencies, delivered the first phase of the Simplified Trade System (STS) agenda which led to the establishment of a whole of government STS Implementation Taskforce in the Trade Portfolio. The Taskforce, announced in the 2021–22 Budget, will lead the STS reform agenda across government to create a simpler, more efficient and digitised trading system which delivers benefits for Australian businesses and increases our international competitiveness and economic resilience. The STS Implementation Taskforce has superseded the Australian Border Force-led Trade Single Window Taskforce, under which the trade modernisation agenda now falls. |
| 3.4 | 310 | Regulatory reforms to prepare for deployment of automated vehicles | All | 2020 - 2026 | In 2020-21, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers agreed to the roadmap and timelines for implementing a national safety framework for automated vehicles (AVs), with the aim to have the required legislation drafted by the end of 2023 and both legislation and a regulator in place by 2026, allowing pathways for commercial deployment of AVs on the road. Queensland Queensland’s input to the Heavy Vehicle National Law is continuing along previous lines to foster new technologies. Western Australia The WA government provided regular input through 2020-21 to discussions and papers from the National Transport Commission on the proposed in-service safety law for AVs, regulatory framework for AVs and AV trial guidelines, and to the Australian Government on required Australian Design Rules for AVs. An agreement on the legislative approach, the scope of an intergovernmental agreement, progress on related Austroads projects, an assessment on readiness for commercial deployment of AVs and a review of existing enforcement powers are expected to be delivered in 2021-22. AV trials continue through existing protocols, with 2020-21 seeing a regional AV shuttle trial in Geraldton and the launch of an automated on-campus shuttle with software completely developed by students at the University of Western Australia. DoT continues to assist proponents in moving potential trials from feasibility to approval. |
| 3.4 | 311 | Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Systems of National Significance | Cth | 2021 - TBD | The Australian Government is committed to protecting the essential services all Australians rely on. To achieve this, the Department of Home Affairs is progressing the Protecting Critical Infrastructure and Systems of National Significance reforms. The Security Legislation Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2020 (SLA Bill) was introduced into Parliament on 10 December 2020. The SLA Bill seeks to amend the Security of Critical Infrastructure Act 2018 by expanding its coverage from four sectors (electricity, gas, water and ports) to the following eleven critical infrastructure sectors:
The Government will also introduce positive security obligations requiring industry to consider the specific risks that impact on their operating environment and provide risk mitigation measures that ensure the continued operation of critical infrastructure assets. These will be progressed in phase two of the reforms, after further consultation with industry. While the SLA Bill provides definitions for asset classes across the 11 sectors, rules may be made to further define some of the asset classes. The Department of Home Affairs released a Critical Infrastructure Asset Definition Rules paper in April 2021 and engaged with the transport sector, including through roundtable discussions, to finalise definitions for critical freight infrastructure assets and critical freight services assets. The Department will provide the draft rules to the Minister for Home Affairs for their consideration. To reduce regulatory burden and build on existing frameworks, the Australian Government is also undertaking reforms to the Aviation Transport Security Act 2004 and the Maritime Transport and Offshore Facilities Security Act 2003 (the Acts) to implement an enhanced critical infrastructure regulatory framework for the aviation and maritime transport sectors. This will transition the Acts from a focus on unlawful interference (terrorism) to an ‘all hazards’ framework. This will support members of the aviation and maritime transport sector in protecting their critical operations from a broader range of risks through already established frameworks. The proposed amendments to the Acts are captured in the Transport Security Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill 2021 (Transport Security Bill). It is anticipated that the Transport Security Bill will be released for exposure in late 2021. |
| 3.4 | 312 | Reform of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) | Cth | Ongoing | The second ten-yearly independent review of the EPBC Act was completed in October 2020 and released on 28 January 2021. It is available at www.epbcactreview.environment.gov.au. The Australian Government is committed to consulting stakeholders on the recommendations of the review and undertaking a staged program of reforms informed by the EPBC Act Review. In June 2021, the Minister for the Environment released ‘A pathway for reforming national environmental law’ and a ‘Proposed timeline for EPBC Act reforms’ that together outline the reforms underway, the next steps and when the Government will engage with stakeholders. In the first stage of reform, the focus is delivering the National Cabinet commitment to single touch environmental approvals with states and territories underpinned by new National Environmental Standards with strong assurance. These reforms are aligned with the key findings of the review’s Final Report. Amendments to the EPBC Act are currently before the Parliament to deliver these reforms. |
| 3.4 | 313 | Streamlining environmental assessments | All | Ongoing | The Digital Environmental Assessment Program is a key initiative to transform the Australian Government’s environmental assessment and approval process to a user-focused digital platform that integrates systems and data across jurisdictions. The program is part of the Australian Government’s deregulation agenda and includes three distinct outputs:
These projects will see a transition from unstructured reports and non-reusable data to data collected in standard formatted for sharing and reuse. The portal and assessment system will be co-designed with the WA Government as a pilot, with a vision of national rollout if it is successful. The biodiversity repository will look at seeking a national approach to some biodiversity data standards and enable the different state or territory repositories to be linked, so data can be shared. The Australian Government allocated $26.8 million over three years from 2019-20 for the program. The program is on track and will deliver the new services by June 2022. |
| 3.4 | 314 | Review of national transport reforms | All | 2019 - 2020 | Complete. The Productivity Commission released its final report on National Transport Regulatory Reform on 1 October 2020. The report was commissioned by the Australian Government in 2019 to assess the economic impact of reforms agreed by the Council of Australian Governments in 2008-09. The Government is currently considering all recommendations within the report and undertaking consultation with regulators, jurisdictions and industry stakeholders to prepare a response. |
| 3.4 | 315 | Review of the Heavy Vehicle National Law | All | 2018 - 2023 | The National Transport Commission (NTC) is leading the Heavy Vehicle National Law Review. On 28 May 2021, Infrastructure and Transport Minsters endorsed the NTC’s program of work that will significantly progress final legislation to be presented to Minsters in mid-2023. The NTC will deliver more detailed advice to Ministers over the next 12 months on key areas of reform such as fatigue management, heavy vehicle access, increased use of higher productivity vehicles, assurance schemes, duties and driver health. Ministers agreed that options developed should be ambitious to realise productivity and safety benefits for industry and the economy more broadly. |
| 3.4 | 316 | Review of regulatory telematics | Cth | Ongoing | The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) has partnered with state and territory transport agencies to progress a consistent approach to the use of technology to provide more flexible solutions that increase access and productivity. For example, the NHVR has been working with Transport for NSW to deliver the NSW Class 3 Livestock Transportation Livestock Transportation Exemption Notice 2021 (No.3). This Notice allows industry to use the lower cost and lower assurance Telematics Monitoring Application, instead of the previous Intelligence Access Program, and at the same time providing greater access and productivity benefits to the livestock industry. The NHVR is also progressing forums such as the National Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Working Group, National Telematics Framework Working Group and National Notice Advisory Group which help develop policies and share information and solutions to provide road managers with a better understanding of access-related technologies and best-practice approaches to the application of telematics for access and productivity improvement reasons. The NHVR is also progressing telematics related activities as part of the Safety and Compliance Regulatory Platform and NHVR intelligence capabilities and data analytics. Since the 2018 completion and approval of NHVR’s Electronic Work Diary standards, six technology companies have formally submitted applications regarding their devices and five have now been approved. The NHVR continues to actively work with all technology providers who have submitted applications to ensure there are no regulatory barriers to their device development programs. |
| 3.4 | 317 | Regulating the maritime industry | Cth | Ongoing | Part X of the Australian Government’s Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Part X) ensures that Australian shippers have continued access to adequate, frequent and reliable shipping services at internationally competitive freight rates while providing container shipping operators with exemptions from certain anti-competitive provisions of the Act. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is developing a class exemption for liner shipping in consultation with the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications and the shipping industry to provide more efficient and effective competition controls for container shipping. The class exemption for liner shipping process has been paused by COVID-19 and recent decisions of the Senate Standing Committee for the Scrutiny of Delegated Legislation. Any decision to repeal Part X and to introduce a class exemption for liner shipping is a matter for Government. |
| 3.4 | 318 | Coastal trading reform | Cth | Ongoing | Consultation on coastal trading reform is continuing. Consultation efforts resumed in September 2020 after delays through much of 2020 due to COVID-19. Consultation efforts have been initially focused on potential cargo reforms, with passenger reforms to be considered at a later date. On 21 September 2020, the Australian Government released a discussion paper proposing changes to the coastal trading framework for cargo vessels, with 44 submissions received from a broad range of stakeholders. Since the release of the discussion paper, the Australian Government has continued to engage with key stakeholders to address issues raised throughout the consultation process. In June 2021, the Special Recreational Vessels Act 2019 was amended to extend the repeal date of this Act by a further two years until 30 June 2023, to allow more time for a permanent regulatory solution to be developed. |
| 3.4 | 319 | Road vehicle standards regulation reform | Cth | Complete | Over 2020-21 a range of approval types were opened for applications in order to allow industry to prepare for the full commencement of the Road Vehicle Standard Act 2018 and associated legislation on 1 July 2021. This include applications for: Testing Facility Approvals; Component Type Approvals; Approved Vehicle Verifiers; and entries onto the register of Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicles. As the transition period will commence on 1 July 2021, this item has been marked ‘complete’. |
| 3.4 | 320 | Audit of existing freight and supply chain regulation and reviews to identify areas of focus for future regulatory reform | Cth | Closed | This project has been superseded by the Productivity Commission’s National Transport Regulatory Reform Inquiry and the upcoming Australian Government response. |
| 3.4 | 321 | National regulatory framework for maritime regulation and service delivery — $11 million | Cth | 2018 - 2028 | On 23 October 2020, the Australian Government announced it is providing an additional $11 million to the national system for domestic commercial vessels. As domestic commercial vessels are largely non-freight related, this item will no longer be included in the annual progress report on the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy. |
| 3.4 | 322 | Regulatory activity regarding drones | Cth | 2021 - 2024 | The National Emerging Aviation Technologies Policy statement was released in May 2021. The policy statement articulates the Australian Government’s commitment to supporting the continued development of the sector and outlines the approach to managing and enabling this evolving market. Consultation with industry and government stakeholders has commenced to progress the key initiatives outlined in the policy statement. |
| 3.4 | 323 | Development and implementation of maritime safety and marine environment protection regulation | Cth | Ongoing | Australia has obligations under various international treaties and conventions on maritime safety and marine environment protection which directly affect the maritime freight sector. In June 2021, the International Maritime Organization adopted a global mandatory technical efficiency standard for international ships above 400 gross tonnage and an operational efficiency improvement measure for ships above 5000 gross tonnage for implementation from 2023. As a signatory to the International Convention on the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, the Australian Government will implement these mandatory measures in relevant domestic legislation to enforce compliance from 2023. The Government continues to lead Australia’s engagement in the International Maritime Organization to revise long-term ambitions and develop future measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. As the maritime regulator, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority also continues to deliver its program of work to review, consult on, and update Marine Orders and national standards to improve maritime safety and environmental outcomes, which directly impact the maritime freight sector. |
| 3.4 | 324 | Review regulations relating to airports | Cth | Ongoing | The Australian Government is continuing the sunset review of the 10 instruments under the Airports Act 1996, Sydney Airport Demand Management Act 1997 and Sydney Airport Curfew Act 1995. The review has been expanded to encompass the broader aviation and airports reform agenda for the industry in context of the aviation COVID-19 response. The Government has identified opportunities to work in partnership with airport lessee companies and other relevant stakeholders to revise current practices and ensure best practice regulation of airports. The Government will continue to work closely with the sector throughout the process of thematic review. |
| 3.4 | 325 | National Services Transition Program | Cth, NSW, Vic, SA, Qld, Tas, ACT | Complete | The Strategic Transition Assurance Review has been completed. SA, Tasmania, the ACT and Victoria have transitioned services to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator, NSW has now passed legislation and is progressing its transition, and due diligence is under way to initiate the transition process for Queensland. |
| 3.4 | 326 | Review dangerous goods transport | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Development of a dangerous goods network policy is in progress, and will identify strategic priorities and actions to support and guide network decisions on the movement of dangerous goods. |
| 3.4 | 327 | Support the transfer of regulatory functions under the Heavy Vehicle National Law from Roads and Maritime and other state-based agencies to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator | NSW | 3 - 5 years | The transfer of heavy vehicle regulatory services to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator is currently in progress. The transition is expected to occur by mid-2022. |
| 3.4 | 328 | Support reforms to transport laws and regulatory bodies | NSW | 3 - 5 years | This initiative is in progress to support Infrastructure and Transport Ministers in reforming the Heavy Vehicle National Law through initiatives such as developing a national system for heavy vehicle registration and undertaking a national vehicle standards review relating to vehicle height and mass requirements. |
| 3.4 | 329 | Implement the NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Framework | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Completed. The NSW Government released the “NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Framework” in September 2018 with an implementation plan completed. |
| 3.4 | 330 | Legislative reform to ensure national harmonisation of laws | All | Ongoing | Queensland interacts positively and pro-actively with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and other jurisdictions to foster safe, sustainable and productive outcomes for the road freight industry. |
| 3.4 | 331 | Review of WA Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme | WA | Short term | WA completed its review of the WA Heavy Vehicle Accreditation Scheme in 2019. A Stakeholder Reference Group has been established to assist in the exploration and delivery of the recommendations aimed at improving the accreditation process. Throughout 2020-21, WA has continued to work with the stakeholder reference group to explore the recommendations. To date, 12 recommendations have been addressed with a further five recommendations currently in hand. |
| 3.4 | 332 | Legislative reform to ensure national harmonisation of laws | WA | Medium term | WA has an ongoing commitment to collaborate on the development of national transport law and implement laws that enable national consistency in cases where the benefit to WA is clear. |
| 3.4 | 333 | Infrastructure Corridors Initiative | SA | TBD | This Study will examine the barriers and opportunities for key industry, mineral/resources and agribusiness/primary production sectors, and provide that will support the following intentions:
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| 3.4 | 334 | Participation in national regulatory initiatives | Tas | Ongoing | Tasmania will continue to support and participate in development and adoption of national standards and nationally consistent regulation, through existing legislative maintenance processes (road, rail, heavy vehicle and maritime), in order to enhance the safety and efficiency of freight task. |
| 3.4 | 335 | Heavy Vehicle National Law (HVNL) | NTC, jurisdictions | Short term | The ACT applied all chapters of the HVNL on 1 July 2019 and transitioned services to the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator at the same time. The ACT has also applied all HVNL and regulation amendments scheduled for commencement. The ACT continues to engage in the review of the HVNL through the arrangements agreed by Ministers, following consideration of the Consultation Regulation Impact Statement, under which the National Transport Commission will lead a number of projects and work streams to develop a Decision Regulation Impact Statement to be considered by Ministers. |