Smarter and targeted infrastructure investment
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Action Area 1
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
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| 1.1 | 1 | Infrastructure Investment Program | Cth | Completed | The Australian Government is continuing to deliver through its record $110 billion 10-year Infrastructure Investment Program. These investments will support and secure jobs, drive growth and help rebuild Australia’s economy from the COVID-19 pandemic by delivering nation-building infrastructure projects, meeting our national freight challenge and getting Australians home sooner and safer. Once completed, these projects will significantly improve the efficiency and safety of land transport infrastructure in Australia and help meet our growing freight task. Australian Government funded road and rail projects currently underway are expected to support up to 100,000 direct and indirect jobs over the lifetime of the projects. As at 30 June 2021 there are more than 290 major Australian Government funded projects either underway or under construction, including strategic investments in Australia’s freight future. Through the Infrastructure Investment Program, the Australian Government is, for example:
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| 1.1 | 2 | Port Botany Rail Line Duplication — $400 million | Cth | 2019 - 2024 | The Australian Government is fully funding the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to duplicate the remaining section of the Port Botany Rail Line between Mascot and Botany and construct a passing loop between Cabramatta and Warwick Farm on the Southern Sydney Freight Line. The project is expected to improve rail connection efficiency, capacity and service reliability to and from Port Botany. In July 2021, ARTC announced that two separate contracts had been awarded for the Botany Rail Duplication and Cabramatta Loop, with construction works expected to commence in the first quarter of 2022. |
| 1.1 | 3 | Major Project Business Case Fund — $250 million | Cth, participating jurisdictions | 2019 - 2030 | The Major Projects Business Case Fund initiative funds the development of business cases and planning studies for the next phase of major priority projects that will ensure that domestic and international supply chains are serviced by resilient and efficient key freight corridors, precincts and assets. Over $250 million has been allocated to 25 business cases. The Australian Government is working closely with State and Territory Governments to progress these business cases. |
| 1.1 | 4 | Melbourne Port Rail Shuttle — Govt: $58 million (Cth: $38m; Vic: $20m), Private sector: $80.8m | Cth, Vic | 2017 - 2023 | The Port Rail Shuttle Network project will construct railway infrastructure to enable an integrated system of intermodal terminals to link to the Port of Melbourne by the existing rail network. The Project will allow more freight to be moved by rail instead of by road. The Australian and Victorian Governments are investing $58 million to provide successful private sector freight operators and developers with capital contributions, which will be used to deliver capital works and rail infrastructure at their intermodal terminals to establish port rail shuttle operations. Capital works and rail infrastructure on public land will be funded by Government grants (from the $58 million) while works on private land will be funded by private sector capital co-investments. Agreement have now been reached on connecting three suburban intermodal terminals, located at Altona, Dandenong South and Somerton, and are progressing, with leases and track permit arrangements underway. The development of an on-dock terminal at the Port of Melbourne will remove the current internal road leg that containers still require within the Port when using rail – a significant efficiency gain. The commencement of major site works is expected to commence in August 2021 and includes building the new rail connection to the Dandenong South Salta Terminal. |
| 1.1 | 5 | Development of Inland Rail terminals in Melbourne and Brisbane — $20 million | Cth, Vic, Qld | 2019 - 2022 | Joint work is underway with the Australian, Victorian and Queensland Governments for intermodal terminals to support Inland Rail in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively. This work is considering terminal locations, connections, market access/operating models, and financing options as well as value capture opportunities. In the 2021-22 Budget, the Australian Government committed up to $2 billion to deliver a new intermodal terminal in Melbourne and also committed $61.8 million for further planning and design development of a new Melbourne Intermodal Terminal at two potential sites: one at Truganina and the other at Beveridge which would connect to Inland Rail. This investment by the Commonwealth towards the Melbourne Intermodal Terminal project is contingent on a matching contribution by the Victorian Government. A decision on the terminal location is subject to further planning and negotiations between the Australian and Victorian governments. The Brisbane business case is expected to be completed mid-2022. |
| 1.1 | 6 | Urban Congestion Fund — $4.8 billion | Cth, participating jurisdictions | 2019-20 - 2029-30 | The Urban Congestion Fund, a sub-program of the Infrastructure Investment Program, aims to reduce congestion, increase network efficiency for commuter and freight movement, and improve traffic safety in urban areas. Of the $4.8 billion the Australian Government has committed to the Urban Congestion Fund, $3.9 billion has been allocated to 144 projects representing 177 individual packages of work. Tasmania The Tasmanian Government has received $38 million in allocations under the Australian Government’s Urban Congestion Fund, with the Tasmanian Government committing $11.5 million to congestion improvement initiatives. Projects include the Hobart Congestion Package, with priority given to the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor and Hobart Intelligent Transport Solutions. A transport mode study for the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor was completed in 2020. A condition assessment and growth strategy for activation of urban renewal is currently underway. |
| 1.1 | 7 | Roads of Strategic Importance — $4.9 billion | Cth, participating jurisdictions | 2018 - 2030 | The Australian Government has committed $4.9 billion to upgrade key freight routes through the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative. This commitment progresses projects on 27 corridors, as well as 45 standalone projects, connecting businesses to domestic and international markets. South Australia South Australian projects funded through the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative aim to better connect businesses to national and international markets. Corridor analysis has identified a proposed program of works for each corridor.
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| 1.1 | 8 | Bridges Renewal Program — $760 million | Cth | 2015 - 2025 | The Bridges Renewal Program continues to support resilient and efficient key freight corridors, precincts and assets through increased load limits on bridges and other improvements to freight movements. Since 2015, more than 710 projects have been supported. Five rounds have been completed under the Program, with Round 5 announced 29 September 2020. Under Round 5 the Government committed more than $140 million in funding for 205 projects. This initiative is also reported on under Action 1.2. |
| 1.1 | 9 | Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program — $607 million | Cth | 2013 - 2025 | The Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program directly targets investments that improve freight efficiencies. Since 2013, more than 370 projects have been supported. Seven rounds have been completed under the Program, with Round 7 announced 29 September 2020. Under Round 7 the Government committed more than $140 million in funding for 146 projects. |
| 1.1 | 10 | Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport — up to $5.3 billion in equity | Cth | 2017 - 2026 | Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (the Airport) is being delivered by WSA Co Limited (WSA) and is on track for commencement of flights by the end of 2026. The first stage of the Airport Cargo Precinct will include a dedicated cargo vehicle access point off the Northern Road with approximately 75,000m2 of cargo terminal space. Upon opening, the Airport will have the capacity to process around 220,000 tonnes of cargo annually from both the holds of passenger aircraft and in dedicated air freighters, with potential to grow to handle 1.8 million tonnes of air cargo annually in the future. On 6 May 2021, WSA released a registration of interest process to seek submissions from the air cargo industry to collaborate with WSA on the development of the Cargo Precinct. Further information on the Airport Cargo Precinct can be found at https://westernsydney.com.au/cargo. |
| 1.1 | 11 | Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan — $3.5 billion | Cth | 2014 - 2025 | The Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan will provide better road linkages within western Sydney, deliver a quality surface transport network and ensure the efficient movement of passengers, employees and freight, when Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport opens in 2026. Progress includes:
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| 1.1 | 12 | Moorebank Intermodal Terminal | Cth | 2012 - 2030 | Delivery of works to establish the Moorebank Intermodal Terminal Precinct, including planning for the Moorebank Avenue Realignment, continues to progress. Construction and design work to connect the Southern Sydney Freight Line to the Import-Export Terminal at Moorebank was commissioned in November 2019 and further work is in progress to connect the existing Moorebank rail link to the site of the future Interstate Terminal. There has been significant progress in the development of the Moorebank Logistics Park, with Woolworths to establish national and regional distribution centres occupying about 20 per cent of the available Moorebank Precinct West warehouse land. The development of the Moorebank Logistics Park offers the first integrated greenfield precinct which combines co-located warehousing with intermodal rail, paving the way for the future of intermodal terminals that support an efficient, resilient multi-modal supply chain. |
| 1.1 | 13 | Southern Sydney Freight Line | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This project involves the amplification of the Southern Sydney Freight Line through the construction of a passing loop at Cabramatta to support operations at Moorebank Intermodal Terminal. The contract for the project has been awarded and early works have commenced. |
| 1.1 | 14 | Outer Sydney Orbital | NSW | 5 - 10 years | Outer Sydney Orbital is a freight rail line and motorway linking the North West and South West Growth Areas, connecting with the Western Sydney Airport Growth Area and future employment lands. The corridor protection project is currently in progress with the corridor being identified. |
| 1.1 | 15 | Western Sydney Freight Line | NSW | 5 - 10 years | The project is about freight rail connections to serve the Western Sydney Airport Growth Area, connecting Port Botany to Western Sydney and Western NSW via the Southern Sydney Freight Line and supporting the movement of container and bulk freight by rail across Greater Sydney. The first stage was gazetted in June 2020 and will protect the corridor for a dedicated freight rail line between the future Outer Sydney Orbital at Luddenham, through to the M7 at Horsley Park. Stage 2 of the Western Sydney Freight Line is progressing with early planning to identify corridor options for discussion with stakeholders. |
| 1.1 | 16 | Lower Hunter Freight Corridor | NSW | 5 - 10 years | Transport for NSW is consulting on a recommended corridor option for the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor which will provide for a future dedicated freight rail line between Fassifern and Hexham, bypassing Newcastle urban area. Separating rail freight from the passenger rail line is a NSW Government initiative to reduce network congestion on the rail network across Newcastle, and improve travel times and reliability for both rail freight and passenger rail services. |
| 1.1 | 17 | Sydney Airport Road Upgrades | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This project has been completed. The upgraded roads around Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport and the General Holmes Drive level crossing removed by constructing a road underpass. |
| 1.1 | 18 | Sydney Gateway | NSW | 3 - 5 years | This project will develop a link between West-Connex at St Peters Interchange and the Sydney Airport and Port Botany precinct, improving freight connectivity between Port Botany and the strategic motorway network. Transport for NSW has awarded the design and construction contract while the project has also received planning approval. The project is planned for completion by 2026. |
| 1.1 | 19 | Pacific Highway Improvements | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Duplication of the Pacific Highway from Hexham to the Queensland border was completed in December 2020 following the completion of the Woolgoolga to Ballina section. The Coffs Harbour Bypass commenced early works in December 2020 in preparation for the start of major construction. |
| 1.1 | 20 | Easing Sydney’s Congestion | NSW | Ongoing | This action will deliver projects to improve freight flows and increase capacity across the Sydney Metropolitan Network. There are a number of key initiatives/programs that are currently in progress, including the Pinch Point program with the NSW Government committing over $825 million to fixing pinch points across Sydney’s road network. The Pinch Point Programs aim to reduce traffic delays, manage congestion and improve travel times on Sydney's major roads, particularly during weekday peak periods. |
| 1.1 | 21 | Capacity upgrade to Foreshore Road at Port Botany and investigation of truck-only lanes in the port precinct | NSW | 3 - 5 years | The federal and state funded large-scale investigation of a link from Port Botany to Kingsford Smith Airport has not yet commenced. The scope and extent of the work is currently under investigation. |
| 1.1 | 22 | Newell Highway Upgrades | NSW | 5 - 10 years | This project involves upgrades to the Newell Highway including safety infrastructure upgrades and capacity improvements (overtaking lanes and town bypasses), flood immunity upgrades and investigation of where a Performance Based Standards (PBS) 3A vehicle access can be increased in the vicinity of the Newell Highway. The project is currently in progress and will be funded by the NSW Government ($720 million) and the Australian Government ($400 million). A further $300 million of Australian Government Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) funding has been enlisted to assist with missing links to align the Newell Highway Corridor to freight and port hubs, which will ensure that key freight roads efficiently connect agricultural and mining regions to ports, airports and other intermodal hubs. |
| 1.1 | 23 | M1, Hexham, Raymond Terrace Upgrades | NSW | 5 - 10 years | This project would upgrade strategic freight routes connections between the New England Highway, M1 Pacific Motorway through to the Pacific Highway at Black Hill and Raymond Terrace. An environmental impact statement (EIS) was developed to identify potential impacts associated with the project. The Department of Planning and Environment placed the EIS on exhibition between 28 July and 24 August 2021. |
| 1.1 | 24 | Developing and updating regional and District Plans | 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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| 1.1 | 25 | Western Sydney Fuel Pipeline to the Western Sydney Airport | NSW | 10+ years | The Western Sydney Fuel Pipeline to the Western Sydney Airport project includes evaluating options for transporting other bulk liquids by pipeline to maximise the value of proposed the infrastructure. Currently, Transport for NSW is undertaking preliminary work to identify route options for the fuel pipeline corridor that will connect with Western Sydney Airport and surrounds. Transport for NSW has commissioned research to determine the most effective and sustainable approach in delivering the pipeline, while minimising the impact of construction on the community and the environment. |
| 1.1 | 26 | West Gate Tunnel | Vic, Industry | 2018 - 2023 | Work is progressing on the widening the West Gate Freeway, building the city connections and on the tunnel portals. Project parties are working on a solution for tunnel soil disposal ahead of tunnel boring commencing. Transurban has announced that it is expecting to complete the project in 2023. |
| 1.1 | 27 | Western Interstate Freight Terminal | Vic, Cth | 2018 - 2025 | A detailed business case co-funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments to consider a new Interstate Freight Terminal is now completed. The business case considered two locations – Beveridge and Truganina – and was provided to the Australian Government for funding consideration. The proposed terminals’ access corridors have been protected in the Principal Freight Network, which will be included in an update of sections of the Victorian Planning Scheme that is currently nearing completion. The Australian Government’s 2021-22 Budget committed $2 billion to deliver the Western Interstate Freight Terminal, and an additional $61.8 million to progress development of this terminal. Discussions are continuing in relation to Victorian Government funding contributions. |
| 1.1 | 28 | North East Link | Vic, Cth | The project will construct a new motorway between the M80 Ring Road at Greensborough and the Eastern Freeway at Bulleen Road. It will also widen and upgrade the existing Eastern Freeway. Early works are underway, with main construction expected to commence in December 2021. | |
| 1.1 | 29 | Smart Motorways | Qld, NSW | Ongoing | Queensland continues to invest in and deploy Smart Motorways technologies on key motorway road corridors in the south east Queensland road network. Notable Queensland examples include:
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| 1.1 | 30 | Toowoomba Wellcamp and Cairns Airports Regional Airport Distribution Centre Pilots | Qld | 2018 - 2022 | The Toowoomba Wellcamp Trade Distribution Centre is nearing completion and will be officially opened on 27 July 2021. The facility will deliver over 4000m2 in gross floor area comprising of 1500m2 of state-of-the-art refrigerated storage, freezer rooms and temperature-controlled transit areas as well as large ambient transit and covered external storage areas. The facility will open international markets for graziers and growers and will export |
| 1.1 | 31 | Yamala Hub | Qld | Ongoing | Construction of enabling infrastructure is complete and the Queensland Government’s financial commitment to this project has been finalised. GrainCorp has relocated its Emerald grain handling facility to Central Queensland Inland Port. In June 2021, Seaway Logistics was announced as the operator of the freight terminal. |
| 1.1 | 32 | Bruce Highway, Warrego Highway, Gateway Motorway and Pacific Motorway upgrades | Qld, Cth | 2013 - 2028 | Work continues to progress on projects committed on the Bruce Highway, Warrego Highway, Gateway Motorway and Pacific Motorway. The 2021–22 Australian and Queensland Budgets confirmed a jointly funded $500 million (80:20) additional commitment for Bruce Highway upgrades. The 2021–22 Queensland Budget also confirmed an additional $200 million Queensland Government contribution towards proposed joint investment on the Bruce Highway of $1 billion per annum (80:20 federal:state funding basis). Major projects currently underway include:
. See Warrego Highway Upgrade Program and Bruce Highway Upgrade under Action 1.2 for updates on those projects. |
| 1.1 | 33 | Development of the Kenwick Intermodal Terminal | WA, Arc Infrastructure | Short term | The Kenwick Intermodal Terminal is a key part of Arc Infrastructure’s intermodal strategy to increase inland capacity and support additional container volumes on rail. Arc remains committed to the project, but has deferred it while the container market continues to recover from COVID-19 impacts. |
| 1.1 | 34 | NorthLink | WA, Cth | Short term | Complete. The third and final section of the NorthLink WA road initiative, a 22km dual carriageway between Ellenbrook and Muchea, was completed in April 2020. NorthLink WA stretches from Morley to Muchea providing a free flow link, doubling the road capacity and improving journey times and freight vehicle productivity. The NorthLink WA project was jointly funded. |
| 1.1 | 35 | Swan River Crossings, Fremantle Replacement of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge (road and rail) | WA, Cth | Medium term | The Swan River Crossings project design and construction is being delivered through an alliance made up of Arup, Laing O’Rourke, WSP and Main Roads Western Australia. The Alliance Contract was awarded in January 2021, and detailed design development and pre-construction work is underway. The bridge construction will commence in 2022. |
| 1.1 | 36 | Commence road upgrades: Wheatbelt, Mid West, Gascoyne, Pilbara and Goldfields Regions | WA, Cth | Medium term | WA has identified improvements to key supply chain networks to support freight efficiency, improved Restricted Access Vehicles and Performance Based Standards access. The Australian and Western Australian Governments have committed $50 million under the Freight Vehicle Productivity Improvements Program to implement freight improvements on the State road network commencing in 2021/22. |
| 1.1 | 37 | Plan for Container Freight Staging Facilities | WA | Medium term | A private proponent has expressed interest in developing a staging facility in Perth’s northern suburbs, which would allow for more efficient use of the road network using larger vehicles from the port and smaller vehicles to complete the last mile journey. The WA Government continues to work with road transporters to identify allowable vehicle combinations and approved heavy vehicle routes. |
| 1.1 | 38 | 20 Year Infrastructure Strategy and 5 YearCapital Intentions Statement | SA | Ongoing | Infrastructure SA released the 2021 Capital Intentions Statement released on 26 March 2021, which recommended the following projects to be prioritised for further planning study and/or business case development. Sturt Highway and Truro Bypass Infrastructure Australia endorsed the proposed South Australian Highway High Productivity Vehicles Freight Network Access project as a priority initiative on the Infrastructure Priority List. This project forms a key part of that initiative. A planning study is underway to determine the precise realignment of the Sturt Highway through the Truro Hills, including a bypass of the town of Truro. This will inform development of a full business case. The Australian and South Australian Governments committed $202 million in the 2021- 22 Budget process to fund delivery of the Truro between late 2022 and 2026. Augusta Highway This project also forms part of the South Australian Highway High Productivity Vehicles Freight Network Access project listed on the Infrastructure Priority List. It includes the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication and Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication Project initiatives which are reported on below. The duplication of the Augusta Highway will correct deficiencies in road geometry, improve safety and operational efficiency and maximise freight vehicle productivity. The Australian and South Australian Governments committed $180 million in the 2021-22 Budget process to fund the next stage of the duplication of the Augusta Highway from near Nantawarra to Lochiel, which will result in the corridor being fully duplicated from Adelaide through Port Wakefield to Lochiel. A further $5 million was committed to develop a business case which will undertake planning and designing for duplication from Port Pirie to Crystal Brook, including upgrades to intersections. Hydrogen export facility Detailed analysis has been undertaken to determine the potential to develop a new hydrogen industry. Based on the State’s competitive position, South Australia is forecast to capture 25 per cent of the national hydrogen exports. There is significant potential for the growth of the local industry, provided appropriate hydrogen port infrastructure is in place. This is aligned with the South Australian Government’s Growth State agenda. Infrastructure SA recommended further analysis be undertaken to determine the required infrastructure solution. Infrastructure SA’s 2020 Capital Intentions Statement recommended the following projects to be prioritised for further planning study and/or business case development. Infrastructure development on LeFevre Peninsula The formulation of a coordinated and integrated plan to inform further transport infrastructure development along the peninsula and its surrounding areas is currently underway and an important step in supporting pragmatic, well considered infrastructure investment decisions. Infrastructure SA will review individual projects when business cases are available. An Integrated Planning Partner has been engaged to undertake a study of transport infrastructure requirements on Le Fevre Peninsula focussing on key freight routes and interaction with the development of Osborne Naval Shipyard. Preliminary findings will be delivered in third quarter 2021. |
| 1.1 | 39 | North-South Corridor Business Case — remaining sections | SA, Cth | Ongoing | The North-South Corridor Program Delivery Office was established to progress assessment, funding and delivery of the remaining 10.5km River Torrens to Darlington stage, which will complete the 78km motorway providing a non-stop traffic-light-free connection between Gawler and Old Noarlunga. The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $5.422 billion to Stage 1 of this project from Darlington to Anzac Highway. A Reference Design is being progressed, informed by updated traffic modelling projecting increased traffic volumes. Project cost estimates will be finalised on completion of the final business case. |
| 1.1 | 40 | Kangaroo Island Ferry Service Tender | SA | 1 July 2024 | Three companies have progressed to the Invitation to Supply phase for an initial 15-year contract. The Invitation to Supply process will run until September/October and the contract is aimed to be awarded by the end of the year. The current agreement expires on 30 June 2024. |
| 1.1 | 41 | North-South Corridor: Darlington Upgrade Project | SA | 2014 - 2020 | Complete. The upgrade to motorway standard of approximately 3.3km of the existing Main South Road was open to traffic in July 2020. |
| 1.1 | 42 | North-South Corridor: Northern Connector Project | SA | 2016 - 2020 | Complete. The six-lane, 15.5km motorway opened to traffic in March 2021. It provides a vital freight and commuter link between the Northern Expressway, South Road Superway and Port River Expressway. |
| 1.1 | 43 | North-South Corridor: South Road- Regency to Pym Street | SA | 2016 - 2020 | A new 1.8km section of non-stop motorway connects completed motorway sections, resulting in a 47km non-stop motorway between Gawler and the River Torrens. The Regency Road overpass opened to traffic in March 2021. Full project completion which includes landscaping, Intelligent Transport System commissioning and final asphalting is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2021. |
| 1.1 | 44 | Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication | SA | 2019 - 2022 | Duplication of the critical bridge across the Spencer Gulf in the northern region of South Australia commenced in late 2020 and is due to open to traffic in mid-2022. Completion will facilitate expansion of Performance-Based Standards level 4A access south of Port Augusta. |
| 1.1 | 45 | Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication Project | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $124.5 million (Australian Government: $99.6 million | South Australian Government: $24.9 million) for the Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication Project. Construction commenced on late 2020 and it will be open to traffic in mid-2022. |
| 1.1 | 46 | Main South Road Duplication | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2024 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have jointly committed $453 million in funding for Main South Road Duplication Project between Seaford and Sellicks Beach. The project has been defined in two stages. Stage 1 includes duplication from south of Griffiths Drive in Seaford to Aldinga; approximately 10km in length. Stage 2 extends from Aldinga to Sellicks Beach; approximately 6km in length. The concept design has been developed for Stage 1, following initial community consultation. Further feedback from the community on proposed scenarios informed delivery outcomes in conjunction with the Victor Harbor Road Duplication Project. The project is planned to commence in mid-2021, and open to traffic in mid-2024. |
| 1.1 | 47 | Victor Harbor Road duplication — Main South Road to McLaren Vale | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2024 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have jointly committed $92 million in funding for the Victor Harbor Road Duplication Project. The Australian Government has committed an additional $15 million towards other safety improvements. The project will involve the duplication of a 4.5km section of Victor Harbor Road between Main South Road and Main Road, McLaren Vale. Concept design developed following initial community consultation. Further feedback from the community on proposed scenarios informed delivery outcomes in conjunction with the Main South Road Duplication Project. The project is planned to commence in late-2021 and open to traffic in mid-2024. |
| 1.1 | 48 | Portrush Road/Magill Road intersection upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have announced $98 million joint funding for the upgrade of the Magill and Portrush Roads intersection with major construction commencing in April 2021. It is planned to open to traffic in February 2022. |
| 1.1 | 49 | Cross Road/Fullarton Road | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments are jointly funding the $61 million upgrade of the Cross Road and Fullarton Road intersection. Stakeholder consultation commenced in December 2020, and concluded in June 2021. Major construction works are scheduled to commence in mid-2021 and the intersection is planned open to traffic in October 2022. |
| 1.1 | 50 | Torrens Road (Ovingham) level crossings | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2032 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $196 million towards the removal of the level crossing at Torrens Road, Ovingham. Major construction works commenced March 2021 and it is planned to open to traffic in January 2023. |
| 1.1 | 51 | Glen Osmond/Fullarton Road intersection upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have jointly committed $35 million to upgrade the Glen Osmond Road and Fullarton Road intersection. Stakeholder consultation commenced in December 2020 and concluded in June 2021. Project design work has commenced with major construction works scheduled to commence in late 2021. The project is expected to be open to traffic by September 2022. |
| 1.1 | 52 | Main North Road/Nottage Terrace junction upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments are jointly funding the $19 million upgrade of the Main North Road and Nottage Terrace intersection. Service relocation and early investigation works are now complete and major works on the intersection are underway. The project is planned to open to traffic in March 2022. |
| 1.1 | 53 | Main North/McIntyre/ Kings Road intersection upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2021 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $13 million in joint funding to upgrade the Main North Road, Kings and McIntyre Roads Intersection. Major construction works for the intersection upgrade commenced in late January 2021 and the project opened to traffic in November 2021. |
| 1.1 | 54 | Bulk Export Supply Chain Study (new) | SA | 2021 | The South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport will complete a supply chain study for regional bulk export commodities. The study will:
KPMG have been engaged to assist the Department and commenced stakeholder engagement and initial analysis. A report will be delivered to the South Australian Government in third quarter 2021. |
| 1.1 | 55 | Tasmanian Integrated Freight Strategy | Tas | Released 2016 | The Tasmanian Integrated Freight Strategy delivers a contemporary framework that links freight demand and investment, integrates planning and investment across modes, prioritises freight assets and supports improved project evaluation and freight system information. Initiatives are ongoing. |
| 1.1 | 56 | Burnie to Hobart Freight Corridor Strategy | Tas, Cth | Ongoing | The Burnie to Hobart Freight Corridor is the core of the Tasmanian land transport network, connecting all major population, industrial and export centres. The program initiatives include a range of road and rail improvements to the corridor, such as intersection upgrades and lane duplications. Consultation has commenced on improvements to the Bass Highway between Launceston and Devonport. The Australian Government has committed $80 million to the upgrades, with the Tasmanian Government’s contribution to be confirmed once the outcomes of the Bass Highway Corridor Strategy – Launceston to Devonport are known. See Action 1.2 for updates on the New Bridgewater Bridge and delivery of the Midland Highway 10 Year Action Plan. |
| 1.1 | 57 | Hobart Airport Interchange Upgrade — $46 million | Tas, Cth | Expected completion 2023 | The Tasmanian and Australian Governments have committed $46 million ($37 million Australian Government and $9 million Tasmanian Government funding) to construct a four-lane interchange to replace the Hobart Airport roundabout. The new interchange will support future growth in traffic volumes and freight movements and improve safety. Construction of the interchange has commenced. |
| 1.1 | 58 | Cooee Bottleneck — $50 million | Tas, Cth | Commencing early 2022 | The Tasmanian Government is implementing priority projects identified in the Australian Government funded Cooee to Wynyard Planning study, including replacement of the Cam River Bridge. The Bridge replacement, together with road realignment and overtaking facilities, are due to commence in early 2022. |
| 1.1 | 59 | Tasman Highway Sideling $50 million | Tas, Cth | Commencing 2022 | Planning to upgrade the Tasman Highway Sideling is underway, with first stage construction scheduled to commence in 2022. |
| 1.1 | 60 | Monaro Highway Upgrade Program | ACT | Medium term | This project, which will deliver a package of safety works and targeted intersection upgrades along the Monaro Highway in the ACT, is being delivered over a six year period in four parts. The first part, safety improvements on the Monaro Highway near the NSW border, was completed and opened to traffic in mid 2020. Main construction on the next intersection upgrade at Lanyon Drive is expected to commence in 2022. |
| 1.1 | 61 | Parkes Way upgrade project and the Canberra South-West Corridor upgrade package | ACT | Medium - long term | The scoping phases of these two projects is being progressed together, ensuring that proposed improvements can be considered in parallel. A flood modelling study has already been released for tender, and a traffic modelling tender is completed. These will identify constraints and problems in the network, develop options to treat these problems, and establishes a priority for delivery, and inform the assessment of primary freight routes. Identified projects will subsequently be progressed to the development and then delivery phases (with the project funded for both planning and delivery). |
| 1.1 | 62 | Katherine Logistics and Agribusiness Hub | NT | 3 years | Development is progressing on a fully operational, multi-disciplined Katherine Logistics and Agribusiness Hub which will meet the current and future needs of Katherine, the Top End and Northern Australia. The Hub is strategically positioned at the intersection of the key freight routes of the Victoria and Stuart Highways and the Tarcoola to Darwin rail line. Some areas of the site are subject to native title, a pastoral lease, or are owned by the Katherine Town Council. Native title negotiations, acquisition of the pastoral lease interest and the transfer of Council land to the NT Government is continuing. The draft plan for Stage 1 provides for 14 lots with an average lot size of 1.8ha. The design of external power feeders has been completed and construction is underway and is expected to be completed in late 2021. External water infrastructure and Victoria Highway intersection detail design is complete and is ready to be tendered on resolution of tenure. Detailed design for the internal subdivision works is underway. |
| 1.2 | 63 | Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility - $5 billion | Cth | 2016 - 2021 | The Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) is a $5 billion lending facility to provide loans to infrastructure projects in northern Australia. As at 20 July 2021, the NAIF has invested:
In May 2021, the Australian Government extended the NAIF’s investment period to 30 June 2026, allowing it to continue to provide finance to a pipeline of infrastructure projects in northern Australia. |
| 1.2 | 64 | Northern Australia Roads Program $600 million (Cwth: $480m; State Governments: $120m) | Cwth, Qld, WA, NT | 2016 - 2023 | The $600 million Northern Australia Roads Program targets upgrades to high priority roads within Queensland, WA and the NT to support economic development in northern Australia. This program has 20 projects in total and is well advanced with 13 projects completed and seven underway. The final project within this program (Peak Downs Highway) commenced in May 2021. Queensland A total of $279.74 million in joint funding has been committed under the Northern Australia Roads Program in Queensland, with $223.8 million in Australian Government funding and $55.94 million state funding. The Queensland Government and relevant local governments are progressing the delivery of jointly funded projects under both the Northern Australia Roads Program and Beef Roads Program, with a total of 21 projects having reached practical completion. Western Australia Complete. Projects funded included upgrades and safety and productivity improvements, such as road widening, overtaking lane construction and pavement renewal for Great Northern Highway Bow River Bridge and approaches; Great Northern Highway Upgrade Maggie Creek and Wyndham Spar, Marble Bar Road – Coongan Gorge (completed 2019) and Broome Cape Leveque Road (completed 2020). |
| 1.2 | 65 | Northern Australia Beef Roads Program (Cwth: $80m; state, territory and local government: $20m) | Cwth, Qld, WA, NT | 2016 - 2024 | The $100 million Northern Australia Beef Roads Program targets upgrades to key roads within Queensland, WA and the NT for cattle transport in northern Australia to improve the reliability, productivity and resilience of supply chains. The program is in its final stages with 17 projects completed. The final project (Gregory Developmental Road) is due to commence in 2021. Queensland A total of $77.06 million in joint funding has been committed under the Northern Australia Beef Roads Program in Queensland, with $57.67 million in Australian Government funding, $19.39 million state funding and relevant local government contributions. The Queensland Government and relevant local governments are progressing the delivery of jointly funded projects under both the Northern Australia Roads Program and Beef Roads Program, with a total of 21 projects having reached practical completion. Western Australia Complete. The Great Northern Highway - Ord and Turkey Creek - Stage 1 - Road Improvements were completed in late 2019. The works included road reconstruction, realignment and installation of passing lanes, resulting in improved freight capacity and connectivity, increased flood immunity and improvements to road safety. |
| 1.2 | 66 | Bridges Renewal Program — $760 million | Cth, local govt | 2015 - 2025 | The Bridges Renewal Program provides funding for the upgrades of road bridges that will enhance access for local communities and facilitate vehicle access to boost the local economy. Around 85 per cent of funding under the Program has gone to projects located in rural and regional areas. This initiative is also reported on under Action 1.1. |
| 1.2 | 67 | Upgrades to port infrastructure in the external territories — $31.9 million | Cth | 2016 - 2023 | The Australian Government is currently finalising an Approach to Market for the replacement of the Christmas Island Wharf Crane. Should the Approach to Market be deemed successful and a contract signed, works are slated to begin in the second quarter of the 2021-22 financial year. Funding received for the Port Infrastructure Detailed Business Case has been expended and the resulting Detailed Business Case was incorporated into the 2021-22 Budget as part of the Strategic Asset Management funding bid for the territories for all asset classes, including the ports. |
| 1.2 | 68 | Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program — $607 million | Cth | 2013 - 2025 | Reported under Action 1.1. |
| 1.2 | 69 | Adelaide – Tarcoola Rail Upgrade Acceleration $252 million | Cth | 2017 - 2021 | Complete. The Australian Government fully funded the Australian Rail Track Corporation to undertake the Adelaide to Tarcoola re-railing project, which was completed in early 2021. The works improve the productivity of existing services and the operating performance to allow heavier, more efficient freight trains to operate at faster speeds. |
| 1.2 | 70 | Inland Rail Interface Improvement Program $44 million | Cth | 2019 - 2022 | The Australian Government is supporting 38 eligible proposals under the Interface Improvement Program (Round 1 and 2), which will provide proponents with pre-feasibility, feasibility study and strategic business case support to study the benefits and costs of proposed ideas and make a case for further investment. Business case studies are underway between proponents and Ernst & Young- led business advisor teams, based on project plans that have determined the scope, required stakeholder consultation and gateway starting point information requirements for developing each proposal. |
| 1.2 | 71 | Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade — (Cth: $211.6m; state: $187.6m) | Cth, Tas | 2015 - 2024 | The three tranches of the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Program include a range of upgrades such as sleeper and track replacement, formation rectification, yard and terminal track work, level crossing upgrades, and rail corridor drainage improvements. These upgrades will increase efficiency, improve safety and reliability, and on-time running. Upgrades under tranches 1 and 2 commenced in 2015 and are expected to be completed by mid-2023. The Australian Government has contributed a combined $28 million to the Network and Off Network projects under tranche 3. Both of these projects are under construction having started in June 2021 and are expected to be completed by mid-2024. In addition to this, the Australian Government has committed $64 million to the Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade which is expected to start works late in 2021 and be completed in the first half of 2023. |
| 1.2 | 72 | Inland Rail — $14.5 billion | Cth, NSW, Vic, Qld | 2018 - 2027 | Through the 2020-21 Budget, the Australian Government invested an additional $5.5 billion in equity for the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to deliver an enhanced Inland Rail – with more construction that supports another 5,800 jobs at the peak of construction. Significant milestones were reached in the delivery of Inland Rail during 2020-21, including completion of the Parkes to Narromine section in September 2020 and commencement of early construction works on the Narrabri to North Star section in November 2020. The 104km section of Parkes to Narromine track commenced operations in September 2020 and the upgrades have provided a more reliable service for freight moving along that line. The enhanced service offering of Inland Rail is available now between Parkes and Narromine, with freight efficiencies flowing through supply chains that reach from Sydney in the east as far as Perth and Adelaide in the west. Victoria Victoria is supporting the ARTC in its delivery of Inland Rail. Discussions with ARTC and local councils regarding development opportunities along the North East corridor are ongoing. |
| 1.2 | 73 | Regional Aviation Access Program — $72.7 million | Cth | 2021 - 2024 | The Regional Aviation Access Program is comprised of the following components:
Round 8 of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program was announced in May 2021, providing $8.2 million to 46 safety and access upgrades. The Remote Air Services Subsidy Scheme provides connectivity to 268 remote communities through weekly flights, conveying passengers, essential supplies, food and mail. |
| 1.2 | 74 | Regional Airports Program — $100 million | Cth | 2019 - 2023 | The Regional Airports Program provides funding to assist operators of regional aerodromes to undertake safety and access works. On 13 June 2020, $41.2 million in funding was announced for 61 regional airport projects under Round 1 of the Program. Successful projects under Round 2 will be announced in the second half of 2021. |
| 1.2 | 75 | Black Spot Program — $1.2 billion | Cth | Ongoing | The Black Spot Program targets road locations where crashes are occurring, reducing the risk of crashes through funding safety measures such as traffic signals, roundabouts, turning lanes, safety barriers and lighting at locations with a history of at least three casualty crashes in five years. Programs of this sort are very effective, saving the community many times the cost of the relatively minor road improvements that are implemented. In line with national road safety policy objectives, approximately 50 per cent of Black Spot funds in each state (other than Tasmania, ACT and the NT) are reserved for projects in non-metropolitan areas. More than 360 projects were funded in the 2020-21 program year. |
| 1.2 | 76 | Roads to Recovery Program — $6.2 billion | Cth, local govt | 2013 - 2024 | The Roads to Recovery Program allocates funding to all councils Australia-wide to support the maintenance of the nation’s local road infrastructure assets, which connects Australian regions and communities and improves safety and economic and social outcomes. More than 2,370 projects funded under Roads to Recovery were completed in 2020-21. |
| 1.2 | 77 | Deliver and improve key freight programs and projects | NSW | 3 - 5 years | The NSW Government is funding key infrastructure programs including Fixing Local Roads, Fixing Country Bridges and Fixing Country Rail to improve freight connectivity. The NSW Government announced accelerated funding for the Fixing Country Bridges Program in February 2021, with more than $290 million shared across 54 councils to replace 424 bridges in round one. In 2020, the Australian Government committed an additional $191 million to the Fixing Local Roads Program, this increased the total funding for the Fixing Local Roads Program to $691 million. Round 1 of the Fixing Local Roads Program saw $243 million of joint funding allocated to 253 projects in 84 Local Government Areas, and it was announced in June 2021 that Round 2 will see $150 million allocated to 108 road projects in 90 Local Government Areas. Additional projects have also been announced under the $400 million Fixing Country Rail Program, including upgrading the Junee – Griffith line and the Berry-Bomaderry Line. |
| 1.2 | 78 | Implement the NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Framework | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This initiative is complete with further business as usual activities underway. The Framework has enabled improved access for Higher Productivity Vehicles with a focus on improved network access. Transport for NSW has now published a Performance Based Standards (PBS) 2B Tier 1 network. |
| 1.2 | 79 | Fund infrastructure improvements to increase high productivity vehicle road access | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government continues to make investments through road infrastructure programs across state and council roads to improve the road network and make it more accessible for higher productivity vehicles. These funding programs include the Fixing Country Roads, Bridges for the Bush and the Regional Road Freight Corridor Fund, Fixing Local Roads and Fixing Country Bridges. |
| 1.2 | 80 | Provide funding under the Regional Road Freight Corridor Fund to upgrade | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government continues to provide funding under the Road Freight Corridor Fund. Examples of regional projects to be delivered from across the program include Singleton Bypass on the New England Highway and heavy duty pavement from Narrabri to Moree. |
| 1.2 | 81 | Encourage coastal shipping through planning and other initiatives | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government will encourage coastal shipping by appropriate planning to support the continued operation of the port at Glebe Island and White Bay. Transport for NSW has commenced development of a Port Efficiency Strategy. |
| 1.2 | 82 | Saving Lives on Country Roads Program | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This initiative has been completed with projects in development and delivery. This will deliver safety upgrades on country roads, including flexible barriers to separate oncoming traffic and protect vehicles from roadside hazards. The total investment in reducing deaths and serious injuries on NSW roads over the next five years is $1.9 billion. |
| 1.2 | 83 | Assist local councils to plan for freight needs | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW has provided guidance on freight needs and has worked with local councils in developing their strategic development statements. This will be an ongoing initiative to support local councils to plan for current and future freight and logistics requirements in their local government area, and reflect priorities in their local strategic planning statements, including by providing assistance to identify current and future freight and logistics requirements. Transport for NSW has also published a 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. |
| 1.2 | 84 | Murray Basin Freight Rail Project | Vic, Cth | 2016 - 2023 | The Murray Basin Freight Rail (MBFR) project is delivering a variety of upgrades to the freight rail network in western Victoria, including gauge standardisation, track upgrades, construction of new passing loops and the modernisation of signalling and scheduling infrastructure. Since 2016, the Australian Government has committed at total of $440.4 million towards the $689 million MBFR project. The current project scope and funding commitment will not fully standardise the Murray Basin Freight Rail network. In June 2019 the Victorian Government halted works on the project, citing significant project delivery issues and insufficient funds to deliver the full scope. Prior to the project being halted in 2019, the first two of four planned stages were delivered. From November 2019 to March 2020, the Victorian Department of Transport (DoT) undertook a review of the original 2015 business case. The 2020 Business Case Review was publicly released in October 2020. In December 2020, then Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, the Hon Michael McCormack MP announced $200.2 million of additional funding to progress with agreed works on an 80:20 basis. The Department receives regular progress updates through the monthly Murray Basin Freight Rail Steering Committee, held most recently on 10 August 2021. Delivery of the revised package of works is currently focused on planning, procurement and mobilisation with some early works underway. The project is currently anticipated to be completed by the end of 2023, with the most intense period of construction works occurring between Q2 2022 and Q4 2023 |
| 1.2 | 85 | Regional Rail Freight Network Planning | Vic | Ongoing | The Victorian Department of Transport has completed a detailed assessment of the state of the existing regional rail freight network and is preparing further advice for the Government on a new approach for the future of the network. The Regional Rail Freight Framework has been completed and submitted for review in August 2021. Pending approval, funding will be considered in 2023. The Australian Government has offered $7.5 million funding to develop an Import and Export (IMEX) rail shuttle business case to connect the Interstate Freight Precincts (Western and/or Beveridge) to the Port of Melbourne, which will form the basis of the next step in freight rail strategy development. |
| 1.2 | 86 | Bruce Highway Action Plan | Qld | 2013 - 2028 | The Bruce Highway Trust Advisory Council is overseeing the development of a 15-year Vision for the Bruce Highway, three five-year rolling Action Plans and the Safer Bruce 2030 Action Plan to assist both Australian and Queensland Governments in identifying future priority upgrades between Brisbane and Cairns to unlock economic growth, build flood resilience and improve road safety for all road users. The inaugural meeting of the Council was held in July 2020, followed by a second meeting in November 2020. The Council is adding six additional regionally based members to include users and road safety and regional development experts, from along the Bruce Highway north of Gympie. The identification of future priorities on the Bruce Highway will be informed by the customer research outcomes and interviews with key stakeholders, focus group sessions and an online customer survey to identify regional priorities. |
| 1.2 | 87 | Warrego Highway Upgrade Program | Qld, Cth | Complete | The $635 million Warrego Highway Upgrade Program is now complete. The program was jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments on an 80:20 federal:state funding basis. Following the program’s completion, the Australian and Queensland governments have committed $543.9 million for Warrego Highway Future Priorities, with the Mount Crosby interchange upgrade identified as a key priority for the Queensland Government. Planning is underway to determine upgrade priorities between Dinmore and Helidon Spa, with safety treatments to be delivered in the interim. |
| 1.2 | 88 | Bruce Highway Upgrade | Qld, Cth | 2013 - 2028 | The Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, established in 2013, was initially underpinned by an $8.5 billion 10-year program of upgrade works on the highway. In 2021, the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program was expanded to a $13 billion, 15-year program (2013–14 to 2027–28) following additional funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments (80:20 federal:state funding basis). As at July 2021, major projects completed under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program include Townsville Northern Access, Sandy Gully Bridge Upgrade, Cattle and Frances Creek upgrade (south of Ingham), Townsville Ring Road Stage 4, Mackay Ring Road – Stage 1, Yeppen Flood Plain Upgrade (Rockhampton), Cooroy to Curra Sections A and C and Boundary Road Interchange (Narangba). Major projects nearing completion or underway include Cairns South Access Stage 4 (Kate Street to Aumuller Street), Haughton River Floodplain and Caloundra Road to Sunshine Motorway upgrade, with further major projects committed, such as Rockhampton Ring Road and Cooroy to Curra – Section D. |
| 1.2 | 89 | Bruce Highway Safety Package | Qld | Ongoing | The Bruce Highway Safety Package continues to be delivered as part of the overall $13 billion, 15-year (2013–14 to 2027–28) Bruce Highway Upgrade Program. The Bruce Highway Safety Package looks to improve the overall safety of the highway. As at the end of March 2021, safety improvements delivered as part of Bruce Highway Upgrade Program include hundreds of kilometres of wide centre line treatments, shoulder sealing and audio tactile line markings, 30 new rest areas/stopping places and various intersection improvements (such as protected right-hand turns) along the corridor. |
| 1.2 | 90 | Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme | Qld | Ongoing | Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme funding ($70 million) is delivered as an annual grant allocation to Regional Roads and Transport Groups. |
| 1.2 | 91 | Develop major route plans on major highways | WA | Short term | Complete. 98 Route development and management plans for the rural WA network have been completed. The subsequent network analysis identified network programs for widening, overtaking lanes, geometry improvements, bridge upgrades and rest area improvements. |
| 1.2 | 92 | Regional Road Safety Program (new) | WA, Cth, local govt | 2020 - 2022 | The $455 million Regional Road Safety Program aims to deliver road safety improvements. It includes installation of audible edge lines and widening the road surface by sealing of road shoulders to provide a more forgiving road environment. These much-needed road safety treatments are being delivered across the state to upgrade up to 7,000km of roads by July 2022. When complete, up to 50 per cent of the State’s regional road network will be upgraded, helping to prevent up to 2,000 fatal or serious injury crashes. The program is funded 20/80 State and Federal respectively. |
| 1.2 | 93 | Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network | WA, Cth, local govt | Short term | The Wheatbelt Strategic Freight Network identified 80 routes that connect with state and national highways and enable an efficient, sustainable and cost-effective integrated freight transport network. This has led to a $70 million commitment by the Australian Government, through the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, matched by $17.5 million of State funds for road upgrades. As at 30 June 2021, 16 local governments had projects approved for funding to the amount of $19.5 million. An additional $100 million (Australian, WA and Local Governments) was approved for release over the next five years, taking the total funding amount to $187 million. |
| 1.2 | 94 | Revitalising Agricultural Freight Strategy | WA | Short term | The final version of the Revitalising Agricultural Region Freight Strategy, released in June 2020, included a prioritised multi-modal project list. The WA Government is now progressing the Agricultural Supply Chain Improvements program. $200 million in State and Commonwealth funding has been committed for high priority freight projects, to be delivered over a four year period. A broader list of road and rail projects are being assessed through a Stage 2 Infrastructure Australia submission, due for completion in September 2021. |
| 1.2 | 95 | Strzelecki Track Wider Economic Benefit Analysis | SA, Cth | 2019 - 2020 | A business case was commenced following completion of wider economic benefit analysis in March 2020. Options investigation lead to identification of a capping solution as the preferred treatment. As a result, the Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $210 million to completion of the project. The business case will be finalised in third quarter 2021. Approximately 50km of the track was sealed by June 2021 and completion is due in mid-2024 subject to weather conditions. |
| 1.2 | 96 | Grain/minerals port on Eyre Peninsula | SA | Ongoing | This initiative will be informed by the Bulk Export Supply Chain Study (see item under Action 1.1). |
| 1.2 | 97 | Horrocks Highway improvements | SA | 2020 - 2024 | This project includes the installation of overtaking lanes and shoulder sealing, improvements to the Gladstone level crossing, and the replacement of a bridge north of Melrose. Procurement for various packages commenced in January 2021. All works are planned to be open to traffic by June 2023. |
| 1.2 | 98 | Roads of Strategic Importance | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2024 | See update on South Australian items under the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative under Action 1.1. These are Port Augusta to Perth (SA section including Eyre Peninsula network) corridor; Cockburn to Burra corridor and Renmark to Gawler corridor. |
| 1.2 | 99 | Remote Areas Consultative Group | SA | Ongoing | South Australia chaired the Remote Areas Consultative Group, which aims to improve the efficiency and productivity of transport in remote Australia. Members focussed on COVID-19 response and the Heavy Vehicle National Law review during the year. |
| 1.2 | 100 | Productivity improvements (Thomas foods facility, Dublin Saleyards, Bratten bridge, Naracoorte roundabouts, Kroemers Crossing) | SA | 2020 - 2021 | This project involves infrastructure upgrades facilitating improved access for high productivity vehicles.
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| 1.2 | 101 | Rural Roads Package — Safety Package (i.e. overtaking lanes, shoulder sealing, and pavement and intersection improvements) | SA | 2020-2023 | This project involves road infrastructure improvements aimed at increasing safety. Works include shoulder sealing and overtaking lanes in multiple works packages. Initial works packages completed with the full package of works expected to be open to traffic by December 2022. |
| 1.2 | 102 | Kangaroo Island Road Safety and Bushfire Resilience Package – (new) | SA, Cwth | 2021-2024 | The Australian and South Australia Governments committed $40 million in their 2021-22 Budgets (on an 80:20 basis) to upgrade key Kangaroo Island road corridors. Roads to be upgraded include the Playford Highway (west of Kingscote) and Hog Bay Road. The road upgrades will improve tourism routes, enhance bushfire resilience and improve freight access to ports. |
| 1.2 | 103 | Restricted Access Vehicle Network Development Study (new) | SA | April - October 2021 | The Study will inform strategic development of the Restricted Access Vehicle network in South Australia through a combination of targeted stakeholder engagement and freight data analysis. The contract has been awarded and stakeholder engagement commenced. |
| 1.2 | 104 | Bulk Export Supply Chain Study (new) | SA | See Bulk Export Supply Chain Study under Action 1.1. | |
| 1.2 | 105 | Midland Highway 10 Year Action Plan — $565 million | Tas, Cth | 2015 - 2025 | The Australian and Tasmanian Governments have committed $565 million to improve safety for passenger and freight users on this key intra-state highway. The Australian Government’s contribution is made under the Building Our Future Program. Significant progress has been made, with 21 projects delivered to date, and several others under planning and construction. |
| 1.2 | 106 | Bridgewater Bridge Replacement — $576 million | Tas, Cth | 2019 - 2024 | The Bridgewater Bridge is a critical part of the transport and freight link between the northern and southern regions of Tasmania. The current Bridgewater Bridge is reaching the end of its serviceable life and does not meet contemporary loading and design standards of the National Land Transport Network. The Tasmanian and Australian Governments have committed a total of $576 million to build a replacement bridge. Construction will commence in 2022 with traffic expected to be on the bridge by the end of 2024. |
| 1.2 | 107 | Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Project: Tranche Two — $119.6 million | Tas, Cth | 2019 - 2023 | See Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade under Australian Government in Action 1.2. |
| 1.2 | 108 | Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Project: Tranche Three — $96 million | Tas, Cth | 2021 - 2024 | See Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade under Australian Government in Action 1.2. |
| 1.2 | 109 | Devonport Port upgrades — $240 million | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | Devonport Port carries high volumes of container and trailerised freight and is Tasmania’s key passenger port. The existing Port is unable to support longer and larger vessels, including those of the existing operators, or meet forecast freight and passenger volumes. There are also landside operational inefficiencies and capacity constraints for operators. The upgrades will deliver two reconfigured and upgraded terminals, accommodating new and larger vessels and supporting increased freight capacity and passenger numbers. |
| 1.2 | 110 | Hobart Port precinct capacity improvements — $137 million | Tas | TBA | The Port of Hobart is a major Tasmanian deep-water port, supporting a range of industries, including bulk log exports, container exports, bulk fuel imports, commercial fishing, Antarctic exploration and cruise ships. The current condition of major wharves limit growth opportunities, with existing wharf assets approaching end of life and requiring significant annual maintenance. The Port is a critical link in delivering the Australian Antarctic program and developing the Antarctic and Science Precinct at Macquarie Point. Potential options include wharf improvements, supporting infrastructure to increase exports, and a potential terminal and other visitor facilities for tourists. |
| 1.2 | 111 | Port of Burnie capacity upgrades — $145 million | Tas | TBA | Existing port capacity and infrastructure at the Port of Burnie is limiting export opportunities, particularly within the mining and mineral sector. The project will examine options to better support higher export volumes and in-port efficiencies, including additional berth and terminal capacity to support larger ships, channel works to accommodate Panamax vessels, new ship-loading infrastructure and transport access improvements. The project has been identified as a Priority Initiative by Infrastructure Australia. TasPorts is currently assessing options under Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework, including preliminary engineering designs, master plan modelling and an expression of interest process with the market to get a better understand of volume forecasts and levels of service required within the Port. |
| 1.2 | 112 | New bulk minerals ship loader at Burnie Port — $64 million | Tas, Cth | 2021 - 2022 | The new bulk minerals ship loader at Burnie Port will help secure the future of Tasmanian mining exports. The project is expected to commence construction in late 2021 and be completed by late 2022. See Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade under Australian Government in Action 1.2. |
| 1.2 | 113 | Bass Strait Ferry Replacement Program | Tas | 2023 - 2024 | TT-Line has contracted Finnish shipbuilder RMC to deliver two vessels to replace the existing Spirit of Tasmania vessels. The replacement vessels are due to arrive in Tasmania in late 2023 and 2024. The vessels will deliver a significant increase in freight and passenger capacity. |
| 1.2 | 114 | Launceston Airport Infrastructure Upgrades — $11.6 million | Tas, Cth, Launceston Airport | 2020 - 2021 | The Tasmanian and Australian Governments has committed funding ($5.15 million and $1.3 million respectively) for upgrades at Launceston Airport. The remaining funding ($5.15 million) is being provided by Launceston Airport. The project will see the passenger terminal upgraded, improved security screening and construction of a new freight handling facility. The project is in the planning and design phase. |
| 1.2 | 115 | Hobart Airport Infrastructure Upgrades — $10 million | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | The Tasmanian Government has committed $10 million toward infrastructure works to deliver facilities for border force, quarantine and border security functions to support a trial of direct international passenger flights between Tasmania and Auckland. |
| 1.2 | 116 | Feasibility study of a Canberra to Eden railway line | ACT | Complete | The NSW Government finalised a feasibility study of a Canberra to Eden railway line in May 2020. The feasibility study found that the project is not viable. The ACT has supported the concept in principle, recognising the potential benefits to Canberra and the Canberra Region. The ACT participated in stakeholder consultation undertaken by the NSW Government during 2019. |
| 1.2 | 117 | Upgrades to Canberra - Sydney rail infrastructure | ACT, NSW | Short - medium term | The ACT will continue to work with the Australian and NSW Governments on upgrades to this corridor to support improved passenger services as well as infrastructure and track upgrades which support freight movements. |
| 1.2 | 118 | East-West Regional Freight Network | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT Government lodged a submission to the 2020 Infrastructure Priority List for this project, which was accepted in relation to the high priority initiative ‘National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy’. The ACT will continue exploring Australian Government funding opportunities to support the submission. NB: The 2021 Infrastructure Priority List no longer lists a separate ‘National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy’ initiative, as the initiative is now under delivery. |
| 1.2 | 119 | NT Airports Expansion Program | NT | 2 years | In late 2020, the freight and cold storage facility at Darwin International Airport was completed and is now fully operational. This accredited facility has direct airside access and includes a vapour heat plant capable of treating 18 tonnes of produce per day, chiller capacity for 1200 pallets chiller and freezer capacity for 1000 pallets. The Airport Development Group has also recently announced plans to build a jointly-funded $60 million project with the Australian Government, which will see a diesel fuel storage facility built at East Arm, to provide local industry with competitively priced and secure access to this critical resource. In addition, the Airport Development Group is progressing with major redevelopment plans for the resort and hotels, major road upgrades to improve safety for all road users, and the installation of Phase 1 solar works comprising an additional 4 megawatt rooftop array across four businesses operating at the Airport. In the terminal, a new automatic bag drop system, the first of its kind in Australia, will allow for multi-airline check-in, and old technology is being replaced as new aerobridges are installed. |
| 1.2 | 120 | Development of a Darwin Ship Lift Facility | NT | 3 years | The $400 million Darwin Ship Lift Facility will be capable of servicing offshore petroleum, fishing, pearling, Defence and Border Force and other vessels. The Ship Lift will be a common user facility, which will operate on a commercial basis. There will be a legislated open access regime to ensure fair and equal use for all customers. Pricing and access will be overseen by the independent Utilities Commission. In June 2021, the NT Government finalised a project development agreement with the Paspaley Group to operate the facility. Government has continued to attain all relevant environmental studies to secure the requisite environmental and development approvals. The NT Government engaged GHD to prepare a Procurement Strategy to deliver the project and the Expression of Interest phase of the procurement was completed in June 2021. The next phase, Request for Proposal commenced in July 2021. It is envisaged that a Design and Construct Contract will be awarded in late 2021 or early 2022, with construction scheduled to commence mid-2022, subject to obtaining relevant approvals and the successful Contractor’s design and procurement program and its progress. |
| 1.3 | 121 | Developing a world- leading satellite positioning capability for Australia — $224.9 million | Cth | Ongoing | Geoscience Australia’s (GA) Positioning Australia program is building a national positioning capability to provide all Australians with access to instant and reliable location data accurate to 3-5 centimetres in areas where there is mobile or internet coverage and 10 centimetres everywhere else – a significant improvement on the current 5-10 metre accuracy. An independent study shows that accurate, instant and reliable satellite positioning will generate at least $6.2 billion in the Australian economy over 30 years through new technologies and greater efficiencies. To deliver the national positioning capability:
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| 1.3 | 122 | Access to spectrum | Cth | Ongoing | The Australian Communications and Media Authority is continuing to monitor developments internationally relevant to freight applications such as connected and automated vehicles, and plans to commence a review of its current arrangements for Intelligent Transport Systems in the July to September quarter of 2021. |
| 1.3 | 123 | Continue the Mobile Black Spot Program | Cth | The Australian Government has committed $380 million to date to the Mobile Black Spot Program to invest in telecommunications infrastructure projects that improve mobile coverage and competition across Australia. More than 1,270 base stations have been funded under the program, with over 946 now in operation. Completed base stations are providing new and improved mobile coverage to more than 8,000km of major transport routes. $80 million has been allocated for the next round of the program, Round 6, the process for which is expected to commence in late 2021. | |
| 1.3 | 124 | Rollout of the National Broadband Network | Cth | On 11 December 2020, the Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts of Australia, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, declared that the National Broadband Network (NBN) is to be treated as built and fully operational under Section 48 of the National Broadband Network Companies Act 2011 (the Act). With the volume build of the network complete, NBN Co is focused on implementing a $4.5 billion upgrade of the network and completing the small number of outstanding ‘complex connections’. NBN Co has reduced the number of remaining ‘complex connections’ to less than 12,000 as of 30 June 2021. NBN Co provides quarterly progress reporting on the remaining complex connections in its weekly progress report available on the NBN Co website at www. nbnco.com.au/corporate-information/about-nbn-co/corporate-plan/weekly-progress-report. | |
| 1.3 | 125 | Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G uptake | Cth | Australia’s major mobile network operators continue to expand their active 5G networks. Telstra’s network now covers 2,700 suburbs, offering 5G services to 75 per cent of the population. Optus has deployed over 1,300 5G sites covering 830,000 households, while TPG Telecom plans for its 5G rollout to cover more than 85 per cent of the population in the top six cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Canberra) by the end of 2021. On 29 September 2020, the Australian Government announced the establishment of the $22.1 million Australian 5G Innovation Initiative to support the demonstration of 5G use cases to showcase the productivity boosting applications of 5G. The Initiative is an open and competitive grants program with two rounds of funding over three years to support private sector investment in 5G testbeds and trials, including Internet of Things (IoT) applications, which will help build Australia’s 5G ecosystem. The Australian Council of Learned Academies released its report into the opportunities and implications presented by IoT applications in November 2020. The report explored a range of applications across Australian cities and regions; to create an on-demand manufacturing sector, enhance telehealth to tailor patient care and support the monitoring and treatment of COVID-19 patients in their own homes. Telstra has approximately 3 million square kilometres of LTE-M coverage and around 4 million square kilometres of Narrowband-IoT coverage. As of June 2021, this coverage is already being used to connect more than 4 million devices. Both Optus and TPG Telecom also operate IoT networks. | |
| 1.3 | 126 | Examination of technology models for deployment of Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems | All, Austroads | 2020 - 2021 | A joint project to develop strategies to support Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems deployment models is underway in collaboration with the Australian, Queensland and NSW Governments and Austroads, with research delivered by WSP. |
| 1.3 | 127 | Reforms to enable data collection from Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems | Ongoing | A national working group to address government access to, and use of, vehicle generated data has been established. The National Transport Commission, Australian Government, industry stakeholders, state and territory governments and Austroads will participate and report back to Infrastructure and Transport Ministers annually on progress. In its 2021-22 work program, Austroads will undertake a project covering connected vehicle and road agency data exchange. This will support road agency assessment of organisational changes needed to enable effective data collection from Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems. It will identify what vehicle-generated data manufacturers capture, then run a pilot testing the feasibility, and legal and operational requirements, of importing this data into road agencies’ systems. | |
| 1.3 | 128 | Facilitate trials of emerging technology in heavy vehicles | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for New South Wales is continuing to look at the appropriate technologies for this initiative which will focus on heavy vehicle platooning and automation. Further work is to be carried out to provide a framework for trials and automated operations. |
| 1.3 | 129 | Improve data sharing | NSW | 0 - 2 years | NSW has completed significant work in this area and has led the nation in publishing freight data in an open environment for customers and stakeholders to access. Whilst complete, Transport for NSW will continue its drive to make data available for better decision making by government agencies, local councils, road and rail operators and freight customers and communities. Transport for NSW is also undertaking a Strategic Business Case for a Freight Community System to rapidly and securely exchange information and provide visibility of data across freight supply chains. |
| 1.3 | 130 | Adopt new technologies to improve the efficiency of government infrastructure | NSW | Ongoing | A number of initiatives have been completed that will continue as ‘business as usual’ across ports, road and rail networks. Transport for New South Wales continues to explore technology solutions to improve the efficiency of administration and management of the network. Transport for NSW released in March 2021 the Future Technology Roadmap. |
| 1.3 | 131 | Foster trials of emerging technology by industry | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for New South Wales is currently engaging with industry and technology suppliers across a number of initiatives including heavy vehicle platooning and automation, vehicle-to-infrastructure systems to optimise traffic signal timing and reduce travel times for freight vehicles and last mile deliveries by aerial drones in urban areas across. |
| 1.3 | 132 | Support national reforms to investment in the freight network | NSW | 5 – 10 years | Transport for NSW will continue to work with the Australian Government and other jurisdictions on national reforms, such as the Heavy Vehicle Road Reform, to support investment in the freight network. |
| 1.3 | 133 | Explore opportunities to apply new technology to manage transport networks | All | 2019 - 2021 | Under the Heavy Vehicle Safety Action Plan, the first of six Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) enabled rest area sites (at Ogmore) was operational at the end of October 2020. |
| 1.3 | 134 | Smart Freeway – Kwinana Northbound | WA | Completed | Complete. The smart freeway became fully operational in August 2020. Kwinana Freeway northbound, from Roe Highway to the Narrows Bridge, has saved drivers up to 10 minutes on journey time. Along with installing new technologies and traffic signals at five northbound on-ramps, Perth’s first Smart Freeway involved converting the emergency lane into an additional traffic lane, from Canning Highway to the Narrows Bridge. |
| 1.3 | 135 | Regional Telecommunications Project: National Strategy Integration | WA | Short term | A has continued to invest in improving mobile coverage along highways and arterial roads. Four base stations were completed in 2020-21, with co-investment from the Australian Government and mobile network operators. A further ten sites are planned in 2021- 22. |
| 1.3 | 136 | Fremantle Ports real time data project | WA | Short term | The initiatives under the WA real-time data gathering project achieved the following:
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| 1.3 | 137 | Grainbelt Digital Enhancement Program | WA, Industry | Medium term | Rounds 1, 2 and 3 have been awarded and rollout of fixed wireless installations is under way across the Grainbelt. The Program will deliver enterprise-grade connectivity across 110,000km2 representing 55 per cent of the Grainbelt. |
| 1.3 | 138 | South Eastern Freeway - Managed Motorway Measures Project (new) | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2021 | The South Eastern Freeway - Managed Motorway Measures Project, jointly funded by the Australian Government and South Australian Government, commenced in May 2020. The project will convert the existing emergency lane into a third full time travel lane and implement a Managed Motorway on both the up and down tracks of the South Eastern Freeway between Crafers and Stirling. The three lane Managed Motorway will include an Intelligent Transport System, with variable speed limits and a Lane Use Management system. This will enable the allocation and control of lanes across the freeway to improve safety and traffic flow. Finishing, testing and commissioning works commenced late December 2020 and was completed in February 2021. |
| 1.3 | 139 | Great Eastern Drive Mobile Coverage Program | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | This program aims to improve coverage to at least 95 per cent of the Great Eastern Drive, between Buckland and Binalong Bay. The Great Eastern Drive is a major Tasmanian transportation route, with significant areas of negligible or no mobile coverage. A total of $11 million will be invested by the Tasmanian Government and Optus to construct 15 greenfield macro base stations. |
| 1.3 | 140 | Low and Zero Emissions Vehicles | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT’s Transition to Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) Action Plan 2018-2021 sets a clear direction for the ACT to accelerate and support the uptake of ZEVs, including battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and electric bikes. The plan includes a range of actions, including a government commitment to all newly leased ACT Government fleet passenger vehicles being ZEVs from 2020-21 (where fit for purpose). As identified in the ACT’s Climate Change Strategy 2019-25, the ACT Government will also identify new actions to support the uptake of zero emissions vehicles from 2021 onwards and will explore opportunities to promote investment in public charging infrastructure. The ACT has also introduced 2-year’s free registration for new and used light passenger and commercial vehicles first registered in the ACT from 24 May 2021 to 30 June 2024. In 2020, the ACT has also released its Zero-Emission Transition Plan that outlines the pathway to achieve the Government’s ambition of a zero-emission public transport system by 2040. |
| 1.3 | 141 | Remote Telecommunications Co- investment Program | NT | 4 years | In addition to the 18 remote sites identified for the 2015-18 program, an additional 14 remote sites were identified for the 2019 22 program. Of the 14 new sites, four sites are completed and 10 sites are currently being designed. Five of the new program sites will provide greater coverage on key transport corridors, including one on the Stuart Highway and the other four on key regional and remote roads. All sites are expected to be completed by the end of 2022. |
| 1.4 | 142 | Advance heavy vehicle road reform to facilitate efficient investment in infrastructure | All | Ongoing | There are four heavy vehicle road reform elements: National Service Level Standards (SLS) for roads; expenditure plan reviewing; independent setting of heavy vehicle charges; and dedicating heavy vehicle revenue to roads (hypothecation). Extensive public consultation in 2020 on reforms to the way heavy vehicle charges are set and invested (supply side reforms) was undertaken by the Australian Government on behalf of all governments. In November 2020, following the public consultations, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers noted industry and other stakeholders (including local government representatives) broadly supported the reforms. Ministers also endorsed progress on the first and foundational element of the reform package – a draft Framework for National Service Level Standards for Roads – with the aim of finalising this framework by November 2021. Infrastructure and Transport Ministers in May 2021 agreed a pathway towards implementation of these reforms, with a series of gateway decisions on specific reform elements to be taken over the next three years. The Heavy Vehicle Road Reform pathway is available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/transport-strategy-policy/ministers-meetings. New National Service Level Standards for roads will underpin road market reform. In November 2021, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers will consider a Standards framework establishing nationally-consistent road categories and setting out the different aspects of road performance that road users and managers value most – such as safety, reliability and efficiency. |
Action 1.1
Ensure that domestic and international supply chains are serviced by resilient and efficient key freight corridors, precincts and assets
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- Stronger links between heavy vehicle road user charges and investments into road infrastructure services.
- Increased transparency to road users regarding levels of service and investments.
- Increased funding certainty for road managers, helping to deliver optional road maintenance.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | 1 | Infrastructure Investment Program | Cth | Completed | The Australian Government is continuing to deliver through its record $110 billion 10-year Infrastructure Investment Program. These investments will support and secure jobs, drive growth and help rebuild Australia’s economy from the COVID-19 pandemic by delivering nation-building infrastructure projects, meeting our national freight challenge and getting Australians home sooner and safer. Once completed, these projects will significantly improve the efficiency and safety of land transport infrastructure in Australia and help meet our growing freight task. Australian Government funded road and rail projects currently underway are expected to support up to 100,000 direct and indirect jobs over the lifetime of the projects. As at 30 June 2021 there are more than 290 major Australian Government funded projects either underway or under construction, including strategic investments in Australia’s freight future. Through the Infrastructure Investment Program, the Australian Government is, for example:
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| 1.1 | 2 | Port Botany Rail Line Duplication — $400 million | Cth | 2019 - 2024 | The Australian Government is fully funding the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to duplicate the remaining section of the Port Botany Rail Line between Mascot and Botany and construct a passing loop between Cabramatta and Warwick Farm on the Southern Sydney Freight Line. The project is expected to improve rail connection efficiency, capacity and service reliability to and from Port Botany. In July 2021, ARTC announced that two separate contracts had been awarded for the Botany Rail Duplication and Cabramatta Loop, with construction works expected to commence in the first quarter of 2022. |
| 1.1 | 3 | Major Project Business Case Fund — $250 million | Cth, participating jurisdictions | 2019 - 2030 | The Major Projects Business Case Fund initiative funds the development of business cases and planning studies for the next phase of major priority projects that will ensure that domestic and international supply chains are serviced by resilient and efficient key freight corridors, precincts and assets. Over $250 million has been allocated to 25 business cases. The Australian Government is working closely with State and Territory Governments to progress these business cases. |
| 1.1 | 4 | Melbourne Port Rail Shuttle — Govt: $58 million (Cth: $38m; Vic: $20m), Private sector: $80.8m | Cth, Vic | 2017 - 2023 | The Port Rail Shuttle Network project will construct railway infrastructure to enable an integrated system of intermodal terminals to link to the Port of Melbourne by the existing rail network. The Project will allow more freight to be moved by rail instead of by road. The Australian and Victorian Governments are investing $58 million to provide successful private sector freight operators and developers with capital contributions, which will be used to deliver capital works and rail infrastructure at their intermodal terminals to establish port rail shuttle operations. Capital works and rail infrastructure on public land will be funded by Government grants (from the $58 million) while works on private land will be funded by private sector capital co-investments. Agreement have now been reached on connecting three suburban intermodal terminals, located at Altona, Dandenong South and Somerton, and are progressing, with leases and track permit arrangements underway. The development of an on-dock terminal at the Port of Melbourne will remove the current internal road leg that containers still require within the Port when using rail – a significant efficiency gain. The commencement of major site works is expected to commence in August 2021 and includes building the new rail connection to the Dandenong South Salta Terminal. |
| 1.1 | 5 | Development of Inland Rail terminals in Melbourne and Brisbane — $20 million | Cth, Vic, Qld | 2019 - 2022 | Joint work is underway with the Australian, Victorian and Queensland Governments for intermodal terminals to support Inland Rail in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively. This work is considering terminal locations, connections, market access/operating models, and financing options as well as value capture opportunities. In the 2021-22 Budget, the Australian Government committed up to $2 billion to deliver a new intermodal terminal in Melbourne and also committed $61.8 million for further planning and design development of a new Melbourne Intermodal Terminal at two potential sites: one at Truganina and the other at Beveridge which would connect to Inland Rail. This investment by the Commonwealth towards the Melbourne Intermodal Terminal project is contingent on a matching contribution by the Victorian Government. A decision on the terminal location is subject to further planning and negotiations between the Australian and Victorian governments. The Brisbane business case is expected to be completed mid-2022. |
| 1.1 | 6 | Urban Congestion Fund — $4.8 billion | Cth, participating jurisdictions | 2019-20 - 2029-30 | The Urban Congestion Fund, a sub-program of the Infrastructure Investment Program, aims to reduce congestion, increase network efficiency for commuter and freight movement, and improve traffic safety in urban areas. Of the $4.8 billion the Australian Government has committed to the Urban Congestion Fund, $3.9 billion has been allocated to 144 projects representing 177 individual packages of work. Tasmania The Tasmanian Government has received $38 million in allocations under the Australian Government’s Urban Congestion Fund, with the Tasmanian Government committing $11.5 million to congestion improvement initiatives. Projects include the Hobart Congestion Package, with priority given to the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor and Hobart Intelligent Transport Solutions. A transport mode study for the Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor was completed in 2020. A condition assessment and growth strategy for activation of urban renewal is currently underway. |
| 1.1 | 7 | Roads of Strategic Importance — $4.9 billion | Cth, participating jurisdictions | 2018 - 2030 | The Australian Government has committed $4.9 billion to upgrade key freight routes through the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative. This commitment progresses projects on 27 corridors, as well as 45 standalone projects, connecting businesses to domestic and international markets. South Australia South Australian projects funded through the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative aim to better connect businesses to national and international markets. Corridor analysis has identified a proposed program of works for each corridor.
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| 1.1 | 8 | Bridges Renewal Program — $760 million | Cth | 2015 - 2025 | The Bridges Renewal Program continues to support resilient and efficient key freight corridors, precincts and assets through increased load limits on bridges and other improvements to freight movements. Since 2015, more than 710 projects have been supported. Five rounds have been completed under the Program, with Round 5 announced 29 September 2020. Under Round 5 the Government committed more than $140 million in funding for 205 projects. This initiative is also reported on under Action 1.2. |
| 1.1 | 9 | Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program — $607 million | Cth | 2013 - 2025 | The Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program directly targets investments that improve freight efficiencies. Since 2013, more than 370 projects have been supported. Seven rounds have been completed under the Program, with Round 7 announced 29 September 2020. Under Round 7 the Government committed more than $140 million in funding for 146 projects. |
| 1.1 | 10 | Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport — up to $5.3 billion in equity | Cth | 2017 - 2026 | Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (the Airport) is being delivered by WSA Co Limited (WSA) and is on track for commencement of flights by the end of 2026. The first stage of the Airport Cargo Precinct will include a dedicated cargo vehicle access point off the Northern Road with approximately 75,000m2 of cargo terminal space. Upon opening, the Airport will have the capacity to process around 220,000 tonnes of cargo annually from both the holds of passenger aircraft and in dedicated air freighters, with potential to grow to handle 1.8 million tonnes of air cargo annually in the future. On 6 May 2021, WSA released a registration of interest process to seek submissions from the air cargo industry to collaborate with WSA on the development of the Cargo Precinct. Further information on the Airport Cargo Precinct can be found at https://westernsydney.com.au/cargo. |
| 1.1 | 11 | Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan — $3.5 billion | Cth | 2014 - 2025 | The Western Sydney Infrastructure Plan will provide better road linkages within western Sydney, deliver a quality surface transport network and ensure the efficient movement of passengers, employees and freight, when Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport opens in 2026. Progress includes:
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| 1.1 | 12 | Moorebank Intermodal Terminal | Cth | 2012 - 2030 | Delivery of works to establish the Moorebank Intermodal Terminal Precinct, including planning for the Moorebank Avenue Realignment, continues to progress. Construction and design work to connect the Southern Sydney Freight Line to the Import-Export Terminal at Moorebank was commissioned in November 2019 and further work is in progress to connect the existing Moorebank rail link to the site of the future Interstate Terminal. There has been significant progress in the development of the Moorebank Logistics Park, with Woolworths to establish national and regional distribution centres occupying about 20 per cent of the available Moorebank Precinct West warehouse land. The development of the Moorebank Logistics Park offers the first integrated greenfield precinct which combines co-located warehousing with intermodal rail, paving the way for the future of intermodal terminals that support an efficient, resilient multi-modal supply chain. |
| 1.1 | 13 | Southern Sydney Freight Line | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This project involves the amplification of the Southern Sydney Freight Line through the construction of a passing loop at Cabramatta to support operations at Moorebank Intermodal Terminal. The contract for the project has been awarded and early works have commenced. |
| 1.1 | 14 | Outer Sydney Orbital | NSW | 5 - 10 years | Outer Sydney Orbital is a freight rail line and motorway linking the North West and South West Growth Areas, connecting with the Western Sydney Airport Growth Area and future employment lands. The corridor protection project is currently in progress with the corridor being identified. |
| 1.1 | 15 | Western Sydney Freight Line | NSW | 5 - 10 years | The project is about freight rail connections to serve the Western Sydney Airport Growth Area, connecting Port Botany to Western Sydney and Western NSW via the Southern Sydney Freight Line and supporting the movement of container and bulk freight by rail across Greater Sydney. The first stage was gazetted in June 2020 and will protect the corridor for a dedicated freight rail line between the future Outer Sydney Orbital at Luddenham, through to the M7 at Horsley Park. Stage 2 of the Western Sydney Freight Line is progressing with early planning to identify corridor options for discussion with stakeholders. |
| 1.1 | 16 | Lower Hunter Freight Corridor | NSW | 5 - 10 years | Transport for NSW is consulting on a recommended corridor option for the Lower Hunter Freight Corridor which will provide for a future dedicated freight rail line between Fassifern and Hexham, bypassing Newcastle urban area. Separating rail freight from the passenger rail line is a NSW Government initiative to reduce network congestion on the rail network across Newcastle, and improve travel times and reliability for both rail freight and passenger rail services. |
| 1.1 | 17 | Sydney Airport Road Upgrades | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This project has been completed. The upgraded roads around Sydney’s Kingsford Smith Airport and the General Holmes Drive level crossing removed by constructing a road underpass. |
| 1.1 | 18 | Sydney Gateway | NSW | 3 - 5 years | This project will develop a link between West-Connex at St Peters Interchange and the Sydney Airport and Port Botany precinct, improving freight connectivity between Port Botany and the strategic motorway network. Transport for NSW has awarded the design and construction contract while the project has also received planning approval. The project is planned for completion by 2026. |
| 1.1 | 19 | Pacific Highway Improvements | NSW | 0 - 2 years | Duplication of the Pacific Highway from Hexham to the Queensland border was completed in December 2020 following the completion of the Woolgoolga to Ballina section. The Coffs Harbour Bypass commenced early works in December 2020 in preparation for the start of major construction. |
| 1.1 | 20 | Easing Sydney’s Congestion | NSW | Ongoing | This action will deliver projects to improve freight flows and increase capacity across the Sydney Metropolitan Network. There are a number of key initiatives/programs that are currently in progress, including the Pinch Point program with the NSW Government committing over $825 million to fixing pinch points across Sydney’s road network. The Pinch Point Programs aim to reduce traffic delays, manage congestion and improve travel times on Sydney's major roads, particularly during weekday peak periods. |
| 1.1 | 21 | Capacity upgrade to Foreshore Road at Port Botany and investigation of truck-only lanes in the port precinct | NSW | 3 - 5 years | The federal and state funded large-scale investigation of a link from Port Botany to Kingsford Smith Airport has not yet commenced. The scope and extent of the work is currently under investigation. |
| 1.1 | 22 | Newell Highway Upgrades | NSW | 5 - 10 years | This project involves upgrades to the Newell Highway including safety infrastructure upgrades and capacity improvements (overtaking lanes and town bypasses), flood immunity upgrades and investigation of where a Performance Based Standards (PBS) 3A vehicle access can be increased in the vicinity of the Newell Highway. The project is currently in progress and will be funded by the NSW Government ($720 million) and the Australian Government ($400 million). A further $300 million of Australian Government Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) funding has been enlisted to assist with missing links to align the Newell Highway Corridor to freight and port hubs, which will ensure that key freight roads efficiently connect agricultural and mining regions to ports, airports and other intermodal hubs. |
| 1.1 | 23 | M1, Hexham, Raymond Terrace Upgrades | NSW | 5 - 10 years | This project would upgrade strategic freight routes connections between the New England Highway, M1 Pacific Motorway through to the Pacific Highway at Black Hill and Raymond Terrace. An environmental impact statement (EIS) was developed to identify potential impacts associated with the project. The Department of Planning and Environment placed the EIS on exhibition between 28 July and 24 August 2021. |
| 1.1 | 24 | Developing and updating regional and District Plans | 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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| 1.1 | 25 | Western Sydney Fuel Pipeline to the Western Sydney Airport | NSW | 10+ years | The Western Sydney Fuel Pipeline to the Western Sydney Airport project includes evaluating options for transporting other bulk liquids by pipeline to maximise the value of proposed the infrastructure. Currently, Transport for NSW is undertaking preliminary work to identify route options for the fuel pipeline corridor that will connect with Western Sydney Airport and surrounds. Transport for NSW has commissioned research to determine the most effective and sustainable approach in delivering the pipeline, while minimising the impact of construction on the community and the environment. |
| 1.1 | 26 | West Gate Tunnel | Vic, Industry | 2018 - 2023 | Work is progressing on the widening the West Gate Freeway, building the city connections and on the tunnel portals. Project parties are working on a solution for tunnel soil disposal ahead of tunnel boring commencing. Transurban has announced that it is expecting to complete the project in 2023. |
| 1.1 | 27 | Western Interstate Freight Terminal | Vic, Cth | 2018 - 2025 | A detailed business case co-funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments to consider a new Interstate Freight Terminal is now completed. The business case considered two locations – Beveridge and Truganina – and was provided to the Australian Government for funding consideration. The proposed terminals’ access corridors have been protected in the Principal Freight Network, which will be included in an update of sections of the Victorian Planning Scheme that is currently nearing completion. The Australian Government’s 2021-22 Budget committed $2 billion to deliver the Western Interstate Freight Terminal, and an additional $61.8 million to progress development of this terminal. Discussions are continuing in relation to Victorian Government funding contributions. |
| 1.1 | 28 | North East Link | Vic, Cth | The project will construct a new motorway between the M80 Ring Road at Greensborough and the Eastern Freeway at Bulleen Road. It will also widen and upgrade the existing Eastern Freeway. Early works are underway, with main construction expected to commence in December 2021. | |
| 1.1 | 29 | Smart Motorways | Qld, NSW | Ongoing | Queensland continues to invest in and deploy Smart Motorways technologies on key motorway road corridors in the south east Queensland road network. Notable Queensland examples include:
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| 1.1 | 30 | Toowoomba Wellcamp and Cairns Airports Regional Airport Distribution Centre Pilots | Qld | 2018 - 2022 | The Toowoomba Wellcamp Trade Distribution Centre is nearing completion and will be officially opened on 27 July 2021. The facility will deliver over 4000m2 in gross floor area comprising of 1500m2 of state-of-the-art refrigerated storage, freezer rooms and temperature-controlled transit areas as well as large ambient transit and covered external storage areas. The facility will open international markets for graziers and growers and will export |
| 1.1 | 31 | Yamala Hub | Qld | Ongoing | Construction of enabling infrastructure is complete and the Queensland Government’s financial commitment to this project has been finalised. GrainCorp has relocated its Emerald grain handling facility to Central Queensland Inland Port. In June 2021, Seaway Logistics was announced as the operator of the freight terminal. |
| 1.1 | 32 | Bruce Highway, Warrego Highway, Gateway Motorway and Pacific Motorway upgrades | Qld, Cth | 2013 - 2028 | Work continues to progress on projects committed on the Bruce Highway, Warrego Highway, Gateway Motorway and Pacific Motorway. The 2021–22 Australian and Queensland Budgets confirmed a jointly funded $500 million (80:20) additional commitment for Bruce Highway upgrades. The 2021–22 Queensland Budget also confirmed an additional $200 million Queensland Government contribution towards proposed joint investment on the Bruce Highway of $1 billion per annum (80:20 federal:state funding basis). Major projects currently underway include:
. See Warrego Highway Upgrade Program and Bruce Highway Upgrade under Action 1.2 for updates on those projects. |
| 1.1 | 33 | Development of the Kenwick Intermodal Terminal | WA, Arc Infrastructure | Short term | The Kenwick Intermodal Terminal is a key part of Arc Infrastructure’s intermodal strategy to increase inland capacity and support additional container volumes on rail. Arc remains committed to the project, but has deferred it while the container market continues to recover from COVID-19 impacts. |
| 1.1 | 34 | NorthLink | WA, Cth | Short term | Complete. The third and final section of the NorthLink WA road initiative, a 22km dual carriageway between Ellenbrook and Muchea, was completed in April 2020. NorthLink WA stretches from Morley to Muchea providing a free flow link, doubling the road capacity and improving journey times and freight vehicle productivity. The NorthLink WA project was jointly funded. |
| 1.1 | 35 | Swan River Crossings, Fremantle Replacement of the Fremantle Traffic Bridge (road and rail) | WA, Cth | Medium term | The Swan River Crossings project design and construction is being delivered through an alliance made up of Arup, Laing O’Rourke, WSP and Main Roads Western Australia. The Alliance Contract was awarded in January 2021, and detailed design development and pre-construction work is underway. The bridge construction will commence in 2022. |
| 1.1 | 36 | Commence road upgrades: Wheatbelt, Mid West, Gascoyne, Pilbara and Goldfields Regions | WA, Cth | Medium term | WA has identified improvements to key supply chain networks to support freight efficiency, improved Restricted Access Vehicles and Performance Based Standards access. The Australian and Western Australian Governments have committed $50 million under the Freight Vehicle Productivity Improvements Program to implement freight improvements on the State road network commencing in 2021/22. |
| 1.1 | 37 | Plan for Container Freight Staging Facilities | WA | Medium term | A private proponent has expressed interest in developing a staging facility in Perth’s northern suburbs, which would allow for more efficient use of the road network using larger vehicles from the port and smaller vehicles to complete the last mile journey. The WA Government continues to work with road transporters to identify allowable vehicle combinations and approved heavy vehicle routes. |
| 1.1 | 38 | 20 Year Infrastructure Strategy and 5 YearCapital Intentions Statement | SA | Ongoing | Infrastructure SA released the 2021 Capital Intentions Statement released on 26 March 2021, which recommended the following projects to be prioritised for further planning study and/or business case development. Sturt Highway and Truro Bypass Infrastructure Australia endorsed the proposed South Australian Highway High Productivity Vehicles Freight Network Access project as a priority initiative on the Infrastructure Priority List. This project forms a key part of that initiative. A planning study is underway to determine the precise realignment of the Sturt Highway through the Truro Hills, including a bypass of the town of Truro. This will inform development of a full business case. The Australian and South Australian Governments committed $202 million in the 2021- 22 Budget process to fund delivery of the Truro between late 2022 and 2026. Augusta Highway This project also forms part of the South Australian Highway High Productivity Vehicles Freight Network Access project listed on the Infrastructure Priority List. It includes the Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication and Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication Project initiatives which are reported on below. The duplication of the Augusta Highway will correct deficiencies in road geometry, improve safety and operational efficiency and maximise freight vehicle productivity. The Australian and South Australian Governments committed $180 million in the 2021-22 Budget process to fund the next stage of the duplication of the Augusta Highway from near Nantawarra to Lochiel, which will result in the corridor being fully duplicated from Adelaide through Port Wakefield to Lochiel. A further $5 million was committed to develop a business case which will undertake planning and designing for duplication from Port Pirie to Crystal Brook, including upgrades to intersections. Hydrogen export facility Detailed analysis has been undertaken to determine the potential to develop a new hydrogen industry. Based on the State’s competitive position, South Australia is forecast to capture 25 per cent of the national hydrogen exports. There is significant potential for the growth of the local industry, provided appropriate hydrogen port infrastructure is in place. This is aligned with the South Australian Government’s Growth State agenda. Infrastructure SA recommended further analysis be undertaken to determine the required infrastructure solution. Infrastructure SA’s 2020 Capital Intentions Statement recommended the following projects to be prioritised for further planning study and/or business case development. Infrastructure development on LeFevre Peninsula The formulation of a coordinated and integrated plan to inform further transport infrastructure development along the peninsula and its surrounding areas is currently underway and an important step in supporting pragmatic, well considered infrastructure investment decisions. Infrastructure SA will review individual projects when business cases are available. An Integrated Planning Partner has been engaged to undertake a study of transport infrastructure requirements on Le Fevre Peninsula focussing on key freight routes and interaction with the development of Osborne Naval Shipyard. Preliminary findings will be delivered in third quarter 2021. |
| 1.1 | 39 | North-South Corridor Business Case — remaining sections | SA, Cth | Ongoing | The North-South Corridor Program Delivery Office was established to progress assessment, funding and delivery of the remaining 10.5km River Torrens to Darlington stage, which will complete the 78km motorway providing a non-stop traffic-light-free connection between Gawler and Old Noarlunga. The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $5.422 billion to Stage 1 of this project from Darlington to Anzac Highway. A Reference Design is being progressed, informed by updated traffic modelling projecting increased traffic volumes. Project cost estimates will be finalised on completion of the final business case. |
| 1.1 | 40 | Kangaroo Island Ferry Service Tender | SA | 1 July 2024 | Three companies have progressed to the Invitation to Supply phase for an initial 15-year contract. The Invitation to Supply process will run until September/October and the contract is aimed to be awarded by the end of the year. The current agreement expires on 30 June 2024. |
| 1.1 | 41 | North-South Corridor: Darlington Upgrade Project | SA | 2014 - 2020 | Complete. The upgrade to motorway standard of approximately 3.3km of the existing Main South Road was open to traffic in July 2020. |
| 1.1 | 42 | North-South Corridor: Northern Connector Project | SA | 2016 - 2020 | Complete. The six-lane, 15.5km motorway opened to traffic in March 2021. It provides a vital freight and commuter link between the Northern Expressway, South Road Superway and Port River Expressway. |
| 1.1 | 43 | North-South Corridor: South Road- Regency to Pym Street | SA | 2016 - 2020 | A new 1.8km section of non-stop motorway connects completed motorway sections, resulting in a 47km non-stop motorway between Gawler and the River Torrens. The Regency Road overpass opened to traffic in March 2021. Full project completion which includes landscaping, Intelligent Transport System commissioning and final asphalting is scheduled to be complete by the end of 2021. |
| 1.1 | 44 | Joy Baluch AM Bridge Duplication | SA | 2019 - 2022 | Duplication of the critical bridge across the Spencer Gulf in the northern region of South Australia commenced in late 2020 and is due to open to traffic in mid-2022. Completion will facilitate expansion of Performance-Based Standards level 4A access south of Port Augusta. |
| 1.1 | 45 | Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication Project | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $124.5 million (Australian Government: $99.6 million | South Australian Government: $24.9 million) for the Port Wakefield Overpass and Highway Duplication Project. Construction commenced on late 2020 and it will be open to traffic in mid-2022. |
| 1.1 | 46 | Main South Road Duplication | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2024 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have jointly committed $453 million in funding for Main South Road Duplication Project between Seaford and Sellicks Beach. The project has been defined in two stages. Stage 1 includes duplication from south of Griffiths Drive in Seaford to Aldinga; approximately 10km in length. Stage 2 extends from Aldinga to Sellicks Beach; approximately 6km in length. The concept design has been developed for Stage 1, following initial community consultation. Further feedback from the community on proposed scenarios informed delivery outcomes in conjunction with the Victor Harbor Road Duplication Project. The project is planned to commence in mid-2021, and open to traffic in mid-2024. |
| 1.1 | 47 | Victor Harbor Road duplication — Main South Road to McLaren Vale | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2024 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have jointly committed $92 million in funding for the Victor Harbor Road Duplication Project. The Australian Government has committed an additional $15 million towards other safety improvements. The project will involve the duplication of a 4.5km section of Victor Harbor Road between Main South Road and Main Road, McLaren Vale. Concept design developed following initial community consultation. Further feedback from the community on proposed scenarios informed delivery outcomes in conjunction with the Main South Road Duplication Project. The project is planned to commence in late-2021 and open to traffic in mid-2024. |
| 1.1 | 48 | Portrush Road/Magill Road intersection upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have announced $98 million joint funding for the upgrade of the Magill and Portrush Roads intersection with major construction commencing in April 2021. It is planned to open to traffic in February 2022. |
| 1.1 | 49 | Cross Road/Fullarton Road | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments are jointly funding the $61 million upgrade of the Cross Road and Fullarton Road intersection. Stakeholder consultation commenced in December 2020, and concluded in June 2021. Major construction works are scheduled to commence in mid-2021 and the intersection is planned open to traffic in October 2022. |
| 1.1 | 50 | Torrens Road (Ovingham) level crossings | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2032 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $196 million towards the removal of the level crossing at Torrens Road, Ovingham. Major construction works commenced March 2021 and it is planned to open to traffic in January 2023. |
| 1.1 | 51 | Glen Osmond/Fullarton Road intersection upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have jointly committed $35 million to upgrade the Glen Osmond Road and Fullarton Road intersection. Stakeholder consultation commenced in December 2020 and concluded in June 2021. Project design work has commenced with major construction works scheduled to commence in late 2021. The project is expected to be open to traffic by September 2022. |
| 1.1 | 52 | Main North Road/Nottage Terrace junction upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2022 | The Australian and South Australian Governments are jointly funding the $19 million upgrade of the Main North Road and Nottage Terrace intersection. Service relocation and early investigation works are now complete and major works on the intersection are underway. The project is planned to open to traffic in March 2022. |
| 1.1 | 53 | Main North/McIntyre/ Kings Road intersection upgrade | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2021 | The Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $13 million in joint funding to upgrade the Main North Road, Kings and McIntyre Roads Intersection. Major construction works for the intersection upgrade commenced in late January 2021 and the project opened to traffic in November 2021. |
| 1.1 | 54 | Bulk Export Supply Chain Study (new) | SA | 2021 | The South Australian Department for Infrastructure and Transport will complete a supply chain study for regional bulk export commodities. The study will:
KPMG have been engaged to assist the Department and commenced stakeholder engagement and initial analysis. A report will be delivered to the South Australian Government in third quarter 2021. |
| 1.1 | 55 | Tasmanian Integrated Freight Strategy | Tas | Released 2016 | The Tasmanian Integrated Freight Strategy delivers a contemporary framework that links freight demand and investment, integrates planning and investment across modes, prioritises freight assets and supports improved project evaluation and freight system information. Initiatives are ongoing. |
| 1.1 | 56 | Burnie to Hobart Freight Corridor Strategy | Tas, Cth | Ongoing | The Burnie to Hobart Freight Corridor is the core of the Tasmanian land transport network, connecting all major population, industrial and export centres. The program initiatives include a range of road and rail improvements to the corridor, such as intersection upgrades and lane duplications. Consultation has commenced on improvements to the Bass Highway between Launceston and Devonport. The Australian Government has committed $80 million to the upgrades, with the Tasmanian Government’s contribution to be confirmed once the outcomes of the Bass Highway Corridor Strategy – Launceston to Devonport are known. See Action 1.2 for updates on the New Bridgewater Bridge and delivery of the Midland Highway 10 Year Action Plan. |
| 1.1 | 57 | Hobart Airport Interchange Upgrade — $46 million | Tas, Cth | Expected completion 2023 | The Tasmanian and Australian Governments have committed $46 million ($37 million Australian Government and $9 million Tasmanian Government funding) to construct a four-lane interchange to replace the Hobart Airport roundabout. The new interchange will support future growth in traffic volumes and freight movements and improve safety. Construction of the interchange has commenced. |
| 1.1 | 58 | Cooee Bottleneck — $50 million | Tas, Cth | Commencing early 2022 | The Tasmanian Government is implementing priority projects identified in the Australian Government funded Cooee to Wynyard Planning study, including replacement of the Cam River Bridge. The Bridge replacement, together with road realignment and overtaking facilities, are due to commence in early 2022. |
| 1.1 | 59 | Tasman Highway Sideling $50 million | Tas, Cth | Commencing 2022 | Planning to upgrade the Tasman Highway Sideling is underway, with first stage construction scheduled to commence in 2022. |
| 1.1 | 60 | Monaro Highway Upgrade Program | ACT | Medium term | This project, which will deliver a package of safety works and targeted intersection upgrades along the Monaro Highway in the ACT, is being delivered over a six year period in four parts. The first part, safety improvements on the Monaro Highway near the NSW border, was completed and opened to traffic in mid 2020. Main construction on the next intersection upgrade at Lanyon Drive is expected to commence in 2022. |
| 1.1 | 61 | Parkes Way upgrade project and the Canberra South-West Corridor upgrade package | ACT | Medium - long term | The scoping phases of these two projects is being progressed together, ensuring that proposed improvements can be considered in parallel. A flood modelling study has already been released for tender, and a traffic modelling tender is completed. These will identify constraints and problems in the network, develop options to treat these problems, and establishes a priority for delivery, and inform the assessment of primary freight routes. Identified projects will subsequently be progressed to the development and then delivery phases (with the project funded for both planning and delivery). |
| 1.1 | 62 | Katherine Logistics and Agribusiness Hub | NT | 3 years | Development is progressing on a fully operational, multi-disciplined Katherine Logistics and Agribusiness Hub which will meet the current and future needs of Katherine, the Top End and Northern Australia. The Hub is strategically positioned at the intersection of the key freight routes of the Victoria and Stuart Highways and the Tarcoola to Darwin rail line. Some areas of the site are subject to native title, a pastoral lease, or are owned by the Katherine Town Council. Native title negotiations, acquisition of the pastoral lease interest and the transfer of Council land to the NT Government is continuing. The draft plan for Stage 1 provides for 14 lots with an average lot size of 1.8ha. The design of external power feeders has been completed and construction is underway and is expected to be completed in late 2021. External water infrastructure and Victoria Highway intersection detail design is complete and is ready to be tendered on resolution of tenure. Detailed design for the internal subdivision works is underway. |
Action 1.2
Provide regional and remote Australia with infrastructure capable of connecting regions and communities to major gateways, through land links, regional airports or coastal shipping
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- Better linkages from major regional and remote producer areas to freight corridors and trade gateways (ports and airports).
- Improved all weather access to export gateways, including in Northern Australia.
- All levels of government to improve and upgrade infrastructure in regional and remote areas to lift regional freight productivity, access and safety across all modes and delivery of essential goods and services to isolated communities.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 | 63 | Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility - $5 billion | Cth | 2016 - 2021 | The Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) is a $5 billion lending facility to provide loans to infrastructure projects in northern Australia. As at 20 July 2021, the NAIF has invested:
In May 2021, the Australian Government extended the NAIF’s investment period to 30 June 2026, allowing it to continue to provide finance to a pipeline of infrastructure projects in northern Australia. |
| 1.2 | 64 | Northern Australia Roads Program $600 million (Cwth: $480m; State Governments: $120m) | Cwth, Qld, WA, NT | 2016 - 2023 | The $600 million Northern Australia Roads Program targets upgrades to high priority roads within Queensland, WA and the NT to support economic development in northern Australia. This program has 20 projects in total and is well advanced with 13 projects completed and seven underway. The final project within this program (Peak Downs Highway) commenced in May 2021. Queensland A total of $279.74 million in joint funding has been committed under the Northern Australia Roads Program in Queensland, with $223.8 million in Australian Government funding and $55.94 million state funding. The Queensland Government and relevant local governments are progressing the delivery of jointly funded projects under both the Northern Australia Roads Program and Beef Roads Program, with a total of 21 projects having reached practical completion. Western Australia Complete. Projects funded included upgrades and safety and productivity improvements, such as road widening, overtaking lane construction and pavement renewal for Great Northern Highway Bow River Bridge and approaches; Great Northern Highway Upgrade Maggie Creek and Wyndham Spar, Marble Bar Road – Coongan Gorge (completed 2019) and Broome Cape Leveque Road (completed 2020). |
| 1.2 | 65 | Northern Australia Beef Roads Program (Cwth: $80m; state, territory and local government: $20m) | Cwth, Qld, WA, NT | 2016 - 2024 | The $100 million Northern Australia Beef Roads Program targets upgrades to key roads within Queensland, WA and the NT for cattle transport in northern Australia to improve the reliability, productivity and resilience of supply chains. The program is in its final stages with 17 projects completed. The final project (Gregory Developmental Road) is due to commence in 2021. Queensland A total of $77.06 million in joint funding has been committed under the Northern Australia Beef Roads Program in Queensland, with $57.67 million in Australian Government funding, $19.39 million state funding and relevant local government contributions. The Queensland Government and relevant local governments are progressing the delivery of jointly funded projects under both the Northern Australia Roads Program and Beef Roads Program, with a total of 21 projects having reached practical completion. Western Australia Complete. The Great Northern Highway - Ord and Turkey Creek - Stage 1 - Road Improvements were completed in late 2019. The works included road reconstruction, realignment and installation of passing lanes, resulting in improved freight capacity and connectivity, increased flood immunity and improvements to road safety. |
| 1.2 | 66 | Bridges Renewal Program — $760 million | Cth, local govt | 2015 - 2025 | The Bridges Renewal Program provides funding for the upgrades of road bridges that will enhance access for local communities and facilitate vehicle access to boost the local economy. Around 85 per cent of funding under the Program has gone to projects located in rural and regional areas. This initiative is also reported on under Action 1.1. |
| 1.2 | 67 | Upgrades to port infrastructure in the external territories — $31.9 million | Cth | 2016 - 2023 | The Australian Government is currently finalising an Approach to Market for the replacement of the Christmas Island Wharf Crane. Should the Approach to Market be deemed successful and a contract signed, works are slated to begin in the second quarter of the 2021-22 financial year. Funding received for the Port Infrastructure Detailed Business Case has been expended and the resulting Detailed Business Case was incorporated into the 2021-22 Budget as part of the Strategic Asset Management funding bid for the territories for all asset classes, including the ports. |
| 1.2 | 68 | Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program — $607 million | Cth | 2013 - 2025 | Reported under Action 1.1. |
| 1.2 | 69 | Adelaide – Tarcoola Rail Upgrade Acceleration $252 million | Cth | 2017 - 2021 | Complete. The Australian Government fully funded the Australian Rail Track Corporation to undertake the Adelaide to Tarcoola re-railing project, which was completed in early 2021. The works improve the productivity of existing services and the operating performance to allow heavier, more efficient freight trains to operate at faster speeds. |
| 1.2 | 70 | Inland Rail Interface Improvement Program $44 million | Cth | 2019 - 2022 | The Australian Government is supporting 38 eligible proposals under the Interface Improvement Program (Round 1 and 2), which will provide proponents with pre-feasibility, feasibility study and strategic business case support to study the benefits and costs of proposed ideas and make a case for further investment. Business case studies are underway between proponents and Ernst & Young- led business advisor teams, based on project plans that have determined the scope, required stakeholder consultation and gateway starting point information requirements for developing each proposal. |
| 1.2 | 71 | Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade — (Cth: $211.6m; state: $187.6m) | Cth, Tas | 2015 - 2024 | The three tranches of the Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Program include a range of upgrades such as sleeper and track replacement, formation rectification, yard and terminal track work, level crossing upgrades, and rail corridor drainage improvements. These upgrades will increase efficiency, improve safety and reliability, and on-time running. Upgrades under tranches 1 and 2 commenced in 2015 and are expected to be completed by mid-2023. The Australian Government has contributed a combined $28 million to the Network and Off Network projects under tranche 3. Both of these projects are under construction having started in June 2021 and are expected to be completed by mid-2024. In addition to this, the Australian Government has committed $64 million to the Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade which is expected to start works late in 2021 and be completed in the first half of 2023. |
| 1.2 | 72 | Inland Rail — $14.5 billion | Cth, NSW, Vic, Qld | 2018 - 2027 | Through the 2020-21 Budget, the Australian Government invested an additional $5.5 billion in equity for the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to deliver an enhanced Inland Rail – with more construction that supports another 5,800 jobs at the peak of construction. Significant milestones were reached in the delivery of Inland Rail during 2020-21, including completion of the Parkes to Narromine section in September 2020 and commencement of early construction works on the Narrabri to North Star section in November 2020. The 104km section of Parkes to Narromine track commenced operations in September 2020 and the upgrades have provided a more reliable service for freight moving along that line. The enhanced service offering of Inland Rail is available now between Parkes and Narromine, with freight efficiencies flowing through supply chains that reach from Sydney in the east as far as Perth and Adelaide in the west. Victoria Victoria is supporting the ARTC in its delivery of Inland Rail. Discussions with ARTC and local councils regarding development opportunities along the North East corridor are ongoing. |
| 1.2 | 73 | Regional Aviation Access Program — $72.7 million | Cth | 2021 - 2024 | The Regional Aviation Access Program is comprised of the following components:
Round 8 of the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program was announced in May 2021, providing $8.2 million to 46 safety and access upgrades. The Remote Air Services Subsidy Scheme provides connectivity to 268 remote communities through weekly flights, conveying passengers, essential supplies, food and mail. |
| 1.2 | 74 | Regional Airports Program — $100 million | Cth | 2019 - 2023 | The Regional Airports Program provides funding to assist operators of regional aerodromes to undertake safety and access works. On 13 June 2020, $41.2 million in funding was announced for 61 regional airport projects under Round 1 of the Program. Successful projects under Round 2 will be announced in the second half of 2021. |
| 1.2 | 75 | Black Spot Program — $1.2 billion | Cth | Ongoing | The Black Spot Program targets road locations where crashes are occurring, reducing the risk of crashes through funding safety measures such as traffic signals, roundabouts, turning lanes, safety barriers and lighting at locations with a history of at least three casualty crashes in five years. Programs of this sort are very effective, saving the community many times the cost of the relatively minor road improvements that are implemented. In line with national road safety policy objectives, approximately 50 per cent of Black Spot funds in each state (other than Tasmania, ACT and the NT) are reserved for projects in non-metropolitan areas. More than 360 projects were funded in the 2020-21 program year. |
| 1.2 | 76 | Roads to Recovery Program — $6.2 billion | Cth, local govt | 2013 - 2024 | The Roads to Recovery Program allocates funding to all councils Australia-wide to support the maintenance of the nation’s local road infrastructure assets, which connects Australian regions and communities and improves safety and economic and social outcomes. More than 2,370 projects funded under Roads to Recovery were completed in 2020-21. |
| 1.2 | 77 | Deliver and improve key freight programs and projects | NSW | 3 - 5 years | The NSW Government is funding key infrastructure programs including Fixing Local Roads, Fixing Country Bridges and Fixing Country Rail to improve freight connectivity. The NSW Government announced accelerated funding for the Fixing Country Bridges Program in February 2021, with more than $290 million shared across 54 councils to replace 424 bridges in round one. In 2020, the Australian Government committed an additional $191 million to the Fixing Local Roads Program, this increased the total funding for the Fixing Local Roads Program to $691 million. Round 1 of the Fixing Local Roads Program saw $243 million of joint funding allocated to 253 projects in 84 Local Government Areas, and it was announced in June 2021 that Round 2 will see $150 million allocated to 108 road projects in 90 Local Government Areas. Additional projects have also been announced under the $400 million Fixing Country Rail Program, including upgrading the Junee – Griffith line and the Berry-Bomaderry Line. |
| 1.2 | 78 | Implement the NSW Heavy Vehicle Access Policy Framework | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This initiative is complete with further business as usual activities underway. The Framework has enabled improved access for Higher Productivity Vehicles with a focus on improved network access. Transport for NSW has now published a Performance Based Standards (PBS) 2B Tier 1 network. |
| 1.2 | 79 | Fund infrastructure improvements to increase high productivity vehicle road access | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government continues to make investments through road infrastructure programs across state and council roads to improve the road network and make it more accessible for higher productivity vehicles. These funding programs include the Fixing Country Roads, Bridges for the Bush and the Regional Road Freight Corridor Fund, Fixing Local Roads and Fixing Country Bridges. |
| 1.2 | 80 | Provide funding under the Regional Road Freight Corridor Fund to upgrade | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government continues to provide funding under the Road Freight Corridor Fund. Examples of regional projects to be delivered from across the program include Singleton Bypass on the New England Highway and heavy duty pavement from Narrabri to Moree. |
| 1.2 | 81 | Encourage coastal shipping through planning and other initiatives | NSW | Ongoing | The NSW Government will encourage coastal shipping by appropriate planning to support the continued operation of the port at Glebe Island and White Bay. Transport for NSW has commenced development of a Port Efficiency Strategy. |
| 1.2 | 82 | Saving Lives on Country Roads Program | NSW | 0 - 2 years | This initiative has been completed with projects in development and delivery. This will deliver safety upgrades on country roads, including flexible barriers to separate oncoming traffic and protect vehicles from roadside hazards. The total investment in reducing deaths and serious injuries on NSW roads over the next five years is $1.9 billion. |
| 1.2 | 83 | Assist local councils to plan for freight needs | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for NSW has provided guidance on freight needs and has worked with local councils in developing their strategic development statements. This will be an ongoing initiative to support local councils to plan for current and future freight and logistics requirements in their local government area, and reflect priorities in their local strategic planning statements, including by providing assistance to identify current and future freight and logistics requirements. Transport for NSW has also published a 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. |
| 1.2 | 84 | Murray Basin Freight Rail Project | Vic, Cth | 2016 - 2023 | The Murray Basin Freight Rail (MBFR) project is delivering a variety of upgrades to the freight rail network in western Victoria, including gauge standardisation, track upgrades, construction of new passing loops and the modernisation of signalling and scheduling infrastructure. Since 2016, the Australian Government has committed at total of $440.4 million towards the $689 million MBFR project. The current project scope and funding commitment will not fully standardise the Murray Basin Freight Rail network. In June 2019 the Victorian Government halted works on the project, citing significant project delivery issues and insufficient funds to deliver the full scope. Prior to the project being halted in 2019, the first two of four planned stages were delivered. From November 2019 to March 2020, the Victorian Department of Transport (DoT) undertook a review of the original 2015 business case. The 2020 Business Case Review was publicly released in October 2020. In December 2020, then Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, the Hon Michael McCormack MP announced $200.2 million of additional funding to progress with agreed works on an 80:20 basis. The Department receives regular progress updates through the monthly Murray Basin Freight Rail Steering Committee, held most recently on 10 August 2021. Delivery of the revised package of works is currently focused on planning, procurement and mobilisation with some early works underway. The project is currently anticipated to be completed by the end of 2023, with the most intense period of construction works occurring between Q2 2022 and Q4 2023 |
| 1.2 | 85 | Regional Rail Freight Network Planning | Vic | Ongoing | The Victorian Department of Transport has completed a detailed assessment of the state of the existing regional rail freight network and is preparing further advice for the Government on a new approach for the future of the network. The Regional Rail Freight Framework has been completed and submitted for review in August 2021. Pending approval, funding will be considered in 2023. The Australian Government has offered $7.5 million funding to develop an Import and Export (IMEX) rail shuttle business case to connect the Interstate Freight Precincts (Western and/or Beveridge) to the Port of Melbourne, which will form the basis of the next step in freight rail strategy development. |
| 1.2 | 86 | Bruce Highway Action Plan | Qld | 2013 - 2028 | The Bruce Highway Trust Advisory Council is overseeing the development of a 15-year Vision for the Bruce Highway, three five-year rolling Action Plans and the Safer Bruce 2030 Action Plan to assist both Australian and Queensland Governments in identifying future priority upgrades between Brisbane and Cairns to unlock economic growth, build flood resilience and improve road safety for all road users. The inaugural meeting of the Council was held in July 2020, followed by a second meeting in November 2020. The Council is adding six additional regionally based members to include users and road safety and regional development experts, from along the Bruce Highway north of Gympie. The identification of future priorities on the Bruce Highway will be informed by the customer research outcomes and interviews with key stakeholders, focus group sessions and an online customer survey to identify regional priorities. |
| 1.2 | 87 | Warrego Highway Upgrade Program | Qld, Cth | Complete | The $635 million Warrego Highway Upgrade Program is now complete. The program was jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments on an 80:20 federal:state funding basis. Following the program’s completion, the Australian and Queensland governments have committed $543.9 million for Warrego Highway Future Priorities, with the Mount Crosby interchange upgrade identified as a key priority for the Queensland Government. Planning is underway to determine upgrade priorities between Dinmore and Helidon Spa, with safety treatments to be delivered in the interim. |
| 1.2 | 88 | Bruce Highway Upgrade | Qld, Cth | 2013 - 2028 | The Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, established in 2013, was initially underpinned by an $8.5 billion 10-year program of upgrade works on the highway. In 2021, the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program was expanded to a $13 billion, 15-year program (2013–14 to 2027–28) following additional funding from the Australian and Queensland Governments (80:20 federal:state funding basis). As at July 2021, major projects completed under the Bruce Highway Upgrade Program include Townsville Northern Access, Sandy Gully Bridge Upgrade, Cattle and Frances Creek upgrade (south of Ingham), Townsville Ring Road Stage 4, Mackay Ring Road – Stage 1, Yeppen Flood Plain Upgrade (Rockhampton), Cooroy to Curra Sections A and C and Boundary Road Interchange (Narangba). Major projects nearing completion or underway include Cairns South Access Stage 4 (Kate Street to Aumuller Street), Haughton River Floodplain and Caloundra Road to Sunshine Motorway upgrade, with further major projects committed, such as Rockhampton Ring Road and Cooroy to Curra – Section D. |
| 1.2 | 89 | Bruce Highway Safety Package | Qld | Ongoing | The Bruce Highway Safety Package continues to be delivered as part of the overall $13 billion, 15-year (2013–14 to 2027–28) Bruce Highway Upgrade Program. The Bruce Highway Safety Package looks to improve the overall safety of the highway. As at the end of March 2021, safety improvements delivered as part of Bruce Highway Upgrade Program include hundreds of kilometres of wide centre line treatments, shoulder sealing and audio tactile line markings, 30 new rest areas/stopping places and various intersection improvements (such as protected right-hand turns) along the corridor. |
| 1.2 | 90 | Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme | Qld | Ongoing | Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme funding ($70 million) is delivered as an annual grant allocation to Regional Roads and Transport Groups. |
| 1.2 | 91 | Develop major route plans on major highways | WA | Short term | Complete. 98 Route development and management plans for the rural WA network have been completed. The subsequent network analysis identified network programs for widening, overtaking lanes, geometry improvements, bridge upgrades and rest area improvements. |
| 1.2 | 92 | Regional Road Safety Program (new) | WA, Cth, local govt | 2020 - 2022 | The $455 million Regional Road Safety Program aims to deliver road safety improvements. It includes installation of audible edge lines and widening the road surface by sealing of road shoulders to provide a more forgiving road environment. These much-needed road safety treatments are being delivered across the state to upgrade up to 7,000km of roads by July 2022. When complete, up to 50 per cent of the State’s regional road network will be upgraded, helping to prevent up to 2,000 fatal or serious injury crashes. The program is funded 20/80 State and Federal respectively. |
| 1.2 | 93 | Wheatbelt Secondary Freight Network | WA, Cth, local govt | Short term | The Wheatbelt Strategic Freight Network identified 80 routes that connect with state and national highways and enable an efficient, sustainable and cost-effective integrated freight transport network. This has led to a $70 million commitment by the Australian Government, through the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative, matched by $17.5 million of State funds for road upgrades. As at 30 June 2021, 16 local governments had projects approved for funding to the amount of $19.5 million. An additional $100 million (Australian, WA and Local Governments) was approved for release over the next five years, taking the total funding amount to $187 million. |
| 1.2 | 94 | Revitalising Agricultural Freight Strategy | WA | Short term | The final version of the Revitalising Agricultural Region Freight Strategy, released in June 2020, included a prioritised multi-modal project list. The WA Government is now progressing the Agricultural Supply Chain Improvements program. $200 million in State and Commonwealth funding has been committed for high priority freight projects, to be delivered over a four year period. A broader list of road and rail projects are being assessed through a Stage 2 Infrastructure Australia submission, due for completion in September 2021. |
| 1.2 | 95 | Strzelecki Track Wider Economic Benefit Analysis | SA, Cth | 2019 - 2020 | A business case was commenced following completion of wider economic benefit analysis in March 2020. Options investigation lead to identification of a capping solution as the preferred treatment. As a result, the Australian and South Australian Governments have committed $210 million to completion of the project. The business case will be finalised in third quarter 2021. Approximately 50km of the track was sealed by June 2021 and completion is due in mid-2024 subject to weather conditions. |
| 1.2 | 96 | Grain/minerals port on Eyre Peninsula | SA | Ongoing | This initiative will be informed by the Bulk Export Supply Chain Study (see item under Action 1.1). |
| 1.2 | 97 | Horrocks Highway improvements | SA | 2020 - 2024 | This project includes the installation of overtaking lanes and shoulder sealing, improvements to the Gladstone level crossing, and the replacement of a bridge north of Melrose. Procurement for various packages commenced in January 2021. All works are planned to be open to traffic by June 2023. |
| 1.2 | 98 | Roads of Strategic Importance | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2024 | See update on South Australian items under the Roads of Strategic Importance initiative under Action 1.1. These are Port Augusta to Perth (SA section including Eyre Peninsula network) corridor; Cockburn to Burra corridor and Renmark to Gawler corridor. |
| 1.2 | 99 | Remote Areas Consultative Group | SA | Ongoing | South Australia chaired the Remote Areas Consultative Group, which aims to improve the efficiency and productivity of transport in remote Australia. Members focussed on COVID-19 response and the Heavy Vehicle National Law review during the year. |
| 1.2 | 100 | Productivity improvements (Thomas foods facility, Dublin Saleyards, Bratten bridge, Naracoorte roundabouts, Kroemers Crossing) | SA | 2020 - 2021 | This project involves infrastructure upgrades facilitating improved access for high productivity vehicles.
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| 1.2 | 101 | Rural Roads Package — Safety Package (i.e. overtaking lanes, shoulder sealing, and pavement and intersection improvements) | SA | 2020-2023 | This project involves road infrastructure improvements aimed at increasing safety. Works include shoulder sealing and overtaking lanes in multiple works packages. Initial works packages completed with the full package of works expected to be open to traffic by December 2022. |
| 1.2 | 102 | Kangaroo Island Road Safety and Bushfire Resilience Package – (new) | SA, Cwth | 2021-2024 | The Australian and South Australia Governments committed $40 million in their 2021-22 Budgets (on an 80:20 basis) to upgrade key Kangaroo Island road corridors. Roads to be upgraded include the Playford Highway (west of Kingscote) and Hog Bay Road. The road upgrades will improve tourism routes, enhance bushfire resilience and improve freight access to ports. |
| 1.2 | 103 | Restricted Access Vehicle Network Development Study (new) | SA | April - October 2021 | The Study will inform strategic development of the Restricted Access Vehicle network in South Australia through a combination of targeted stakeholder engagement and freight data analysis. The contract has been awarded and stakeholder engagement commenced. |
| 1.2 | 104 | Bulk Export Supply Chain Study (new) | SA | See Bulk Export Supply Chain Study under Action 1.1. | |
| 1.2 | 105 | Midland Highway 10 Year Action Plan — $565 million | Tas, Cth | 2015 - 2025 | The Australian and Tasmanian Governments have committed $565 million to improve safety for passenger and freight users on this key intra-state highway. The Australian Government’s contribution is made under the Building Our Future Program. Significant progress has been made, with 21 projects delivered to date, and several others under planning and construction. |
| 1.2 | 106 | Bridgewater Bridge Replacement — $576 million | Tas, Cth | 2019 - 2024 | The Bridgewater Bridge is a critical part of the transport and freight link between the northern and southern regions of Tasmania. The current Bridgewater Bridge is reaching the end of its serviceable life and does not meet contemporary loading and design standards of the National Land Transport Network. The Tasmanian and Australian Governments have committed a total of $576 million to build a replacement bridge. Construction will commence in 2022 with traffic expected to be on the bridge by the end of 2024. |
| 1.2 | 107 | Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Project: Tranche Two — $119.6 million | Tas, Cth | 2019 - 2023 | See Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade under Australian Government in Action 1.2. |
| 1.2 | 108 | Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation Project: Tranche Three — $96 million | Tas, Cth | 2021 - 2024 | See Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade under Australian Government in Action 1.2. |
| 1.2 | 109 | Devonport Port upgrades — $240 million | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | Devonport Port carries high volumes of container and trailerised freight and is Tasmania’s key passenger port. The existing Port is unable to support longer and larger vessels, including those of the existing operators, or meet forecast freight and passenger volumes. There are also landside operational inefficiencies and capacity constraints for operators. The upgrades will deliver two reconfigured and upgraded terminals, accommodating new and larger vessels and supporting increased freight capacity and passenger numbers. |
| 1.2 | 110 | Hobart Port precinct capacity improvements — $137 million | Tas | TBA | The Port of Hobart is a major Tasmanian deep-water port, supporting a range of industries, including bulk log exports, container exports, bulk fuel imports, commercial fishing, Antarctic exploration and cruise ships. The current condition of major wharves limit growth opportunities, with existing wharf assets approaching end of life and requiring significant annual maintenance. The Port is a critical link in delivering the Australian Antarctic program and developing the Antarctic and Science Precinct at Macquarie Point. Potential options include wharf improvements, supporting infrastructure to increase exports, and a potential terminal and other visitor facilities for tourists. |
| 1.2 | 111 | Port of Burnie capacity upgrades — $145 million | Tas | TBA | Existing port capacity and infrastructure at the Port of Burnie is limiting export opportunities, particularly within the mining and mineral sector. The project will examine options to better support higher export volumes and in-port efficiencies, including additional berth and terminal capacity to support larger ships, channel works to accommodate Panamax vessels, new ship-loading infrastructure and transport access improvements. The project has been identified as a Priority Initiative by Infrastructure Australia. TasPorts is currently assessing options under Stage 2 of Infrastructure Australia’s Assessment Framework, including preliminary engineering designs, master plan modelling and an expression of interest process with the market to get a better understand of volume forecasts and levels of service required within the Port. |
| 1.2 | 112 | New bulk minerals ship loader at Burnie Port — $64 million | Tas, Cth | 2021 - 2022 | The new bulk minerals ship loader at Burnie Port will help secure the future of Tasmanian mining exports. The project is expected to commence construction in late 2021 and be completed by late 2022. See Tasmanian Freight Rail Revitalisation – Tranches 1-3 including Port of Burnie Shiploader Upgrade under Australian Government in Action 1.2. |
| 1.2 | 113 | Bass Strait Ferry Replacement Program | Tas | 2023 - 2024 | TT-Line has contracted Finnish shipbuilder RMC to deliver two vessels to replace the existing Spirit of Tasmania vessels. The replacement vessels are due to arrive in Tasmania in late 2023 and 2024. The vessels will deliver a significant increase in freight and passenger capacity. |
| 1.2 | 114 | Launceston Airport Infrastructure Upgrades — $11.6 million | Tas, Cth, Launceston Airport | 2020 - 2021 | The Tasmanian and Australian Governments has committed funding ($5.15 million and $1.3 million respectively) for upgrades at Launceston Airport. The remaining funding ($5.15 million) is being provided by Launceston Airport. The project will see the passenger terminal upgraded, improved security screening and construction of a new freight handling facility. The project is in the planning and design phase. |
| 1.2 | 115 | Hobart Airport Infrastructure Upgrades — $10 million | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | The Tasmanian Government has committed $10 million toward infrastructure works to deliver facilities for border force, quarantine and border security functions to support a trial of direct international passenger flights between Tasmania and Auckland. |
| 1.2 | 116 | Feasibility study of a Canberra to Eden railway line | ACT | Complete | The NSW Government finalised a feasibility study of a Canberra to Eden railway line in May 2020. The feasibility study found that the project is not viable. The ACT has supported the concept in principle, recognising the potential benefits to Canberra and the Canberra Region. The ACT participated in stakeholder consultation undertaken by the NSW Government during 2019. |
| 1.2 | 117 | Upgrades to Canberra - Sydney rail infrastructure | ACT, NSW | Short - medium term | The ACT will continue to work with the Australian and NSW Governments on upgrades to this corridor to support improved passenger services as well as infrastructure and track upgrades which support freight movements. |
| 1.2 | 118 | East-West Regional Freight Network | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT Government lodged a submission to the 2020 Infrastructure Priority List for this project, which was accepted in relation to the high priority initiative ‘National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy’. The ACT will continue exploring Australian Government funding opportunities to support the submission. NB: The 2021 Infrastructure Priority List no longer lists a separate ‘National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy’ initiative, as the initiative is now under delivery. |
| 1.2 | 119 | NT Airports Expansion Program | NT | 2 years | In late 2020, the freight and cold storage facility at Darwin International Airport was completed and is now fully operational. This accredited facility has direct airside access and includes a vapour heat plant capable of treating 18 tonnes of produce per day, chiller capacity for 1200 pallets chiller and freezer capacity for 1000 pallets. The Airport Development Group has also recently announced plans to build a jointly-funded $60 million project with the Australian Government, which will see a diesel fuel storage facility built at East Arm, to provide local industry with competitively priced and secure access to this critical resource. In addition, the Airport Development Group is progressing with major redevelopment plans for the resort and hotels, major road upgrades to improve safety for all road users, and the installation of Phase 1 solar works comprising an additional 4 megawatt rooftop array across four businesses operating at the Airport. In the terminal, a new automatic bag drop system, the first of its kind in Australia, will allow for multi-airline check-in, and old technology is being replaced as new aerobridges are installed. |
| 1.2 | 120 | Development of a Darwin Ship Lift Facility | NT | 3 years | The $400 million Darwin Ship Lift Facility will be capable of servicing offshore petroleum, fishing, pearling, Defence and Border Force and other vessels. The Ship Lift will be a common user facility, which will operate on a commercial basis. There will be a legislated open access regime to ensure fair and equal use for all customers. Pricing and access will be overseen by the independent Utilities Commission. In June 2021, the NT Government finalised a project development agreement with the Paspaley Group to operate the facility. Government has continued to attain all relevant environmental studies to secure the requisite environmental and development approvals. The NT Government engaged GHD to prepare a Procurement Strategy to deliver the project and the Expression of Interest phase of the procurement was completed in June 2021. The next phase, Request for Proposal commenced in July 2021. It is envisaged that a Design and Construct Contract will be awarded in late 2021 or early 2022, with construction scheduled to commence mid-2022, subject to obtaining relevant approvals and the successful Contractor’s design and procurement program and its progress. |
Action 1.3
Identify and support digital infrastructure and communication services necessary for improved and innovative supply chains
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- Improved mobile coverage along major freight corridors through initiatives such as the Mobile Black Spot Program.
- New infrastructure to be future-proofed.
- Digital infrastructure deployed to support innovative operations and technology improvements.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.3 | 121 | Developing a world- leading satellite positioning capability for Australia — $224.9 million | Cth | Ongoing | Geoscience Australia’s (GA) Positioning Australia program is building a national positioning capability to provide all Australians with access to instant and reliable location data accurate to 3-5 centimetres in areas where there is mobile or internet coverage and 10 centimetres everywhere else – a significant improvement on the current 5-10 metre accuracy. An independent study shows that accurate, instant and reliable satellite positioning will generate at least $6.2 billion in the Australian economy over 30 years through new technologies and greater efficiencies. To deliver the national positioning capability:
|
| 1.3 | 122 | Access to spectrum | Cth | Ongoing | The Australian Communications and Media Authority is continuing to monitor developments internationally relevant to freight applications such as connected and automated vehicles, and plans to commence a review of its current arrangements for Intelligent Transport Systems in the July to September quarter of 2021. |
| 1.3 | 123 | Continue the Mobile Black Spot Program | Cth | The Australian Government has committed $380 million to date to the Mobile Black Spot Program to invest in telecommunications infrastructure projects that improve mobile coverage and competition across Australia. More than 1,270 base stations have been funded under the program, with over 946 now in operation. Completed base stations are providing new and improved mobile coverage to more than 8,000km of major transport routes. $80 million has been allocated for the next round of the program, Round 6, the process for which is expected to commence in late 2021. | |
| 1.3 | 124 | Rollout of the National Broadband Network | Cth | On 11 December 2020, the Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts of Australia, the Hon Paul Fletcher MP, declared that the National Broadband Network (NBN) is to be treated as built and fully operational under Section 48 of the National Broadband Network Companies Act 2011 (the Act). With the volume build of the network complete, NBN Co is focused on implementing a $4.5 billion upgrade of the network and completing the small number of outstanding ‘complex connections’. NBN Co has reduced the number of remaining ‘complex connections’ to less than 12,000 as of 30 June 2021. NBN Co provides quarterly progress reporting on the remaining complex connections in its weekly progress report available on the NBN Co website at www. nbnco.com.au/corporate-information/about-nbn-co/corporate-plan/weekly-progress-report. | |
| 1.3 | 125 | Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G uptake | Cth | Australia’s major mobile network operators continue to expand their active 5G networks. Telstra’s network now covers 2,700 suburbs, offering 5G services to 75 per cent of the population. Optus has deployed over 1,300 5G sites covering 830,000 households, while TPG Telecom plans for its 5G rollout to cover more than 85 per cent of the population in the top six cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, and Canberra) by the end of 2021. On 29 September 2020, the Australian Government announced the establishment of the $22.1 million Australian 5G Innovation Initiative to support the demonstration of 5G use cases to showcase the productivity boosting applications of 5G. The Initiative is an open and competitive grants program with two rounds of funding over three years to support private sector investment in 5G testbeds and trials, including Internet of Things (IoT) applications, which will help build Australia’s 5G ecosystem. The Australian Council of Learned Academies released its report into the opportunities and implications presented by IoT applications in November 2020. The report explored a range of applications across Australian cities and regions; to create an on-demand manufacturing sector, enhance telehealth to tailor patient care and support the monitoring and treatment of COVID-19 patients in their own homes. Telstra has approximately 3 million square kilometres of LTE-M coverage and around 4 million square kilometres of Narrowband-IoT coverage. As of June 2021, this coverage is already being used to connect more than 4 million devices. Both Optus and TPG Telecom also operate IoT networks. | |
| 1.3 | 126 | Examination of technology models for deployment of Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems | All, Austroads | 2020 - 2021 | A joint project to develop strategies to support Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems deployment models is underway in collaboration with the Australian, Queensland and NSW Governments and Austroads, with research delivered by WSP. |
| 1.3 | 127 | Reforms to enable data collection from Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems | Ongoing | A national working group to address government access to, and use of, vehicle generated data has been established. The National Transport Commission, Australian Government, industry stakeholders, state and territory governments and Austroads will participate and report back to Infrastructure and Transport Ministers annually on progress. In its 2021-22 work program, Austroads will undertake a project covering connected vehicle and road agency data exchange. This will support road agency assessment of organisational changes needed to enable effective data collection from Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems. It will identify what vehicle-generated data manufacturers capture, then run a pilot testing the feasibility, and legal and operational requirements, of importing this data into road agencies’ systems. | |
| 1.3 | 128 | Facilitate trials of emerging technology in heavy vehicles | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for New South Wales is continuing to look at the appropriate technologies for this initiative which will focus on heavy vehicle platooning and automation. Further work is to be carried out to provide a framework for trials and automated operations. |
| 1.3 | 129 | Improve data sharing | NSW | 0 - 2 years | NSW has completed significant work in this area and has led the nation in publishing freight data in an open environment for customers and stakeholders to access. Whilst complete, Transport for NSW will continue its drive to make data available for better decision making by government agencies, local councils, road and rail operators and freight customers and communities. Transport for NSW is also undertaking a Strategic Business Case for a Freight Community System to rapidly and securely exchange information and provide visibility of data across freight supply chains. |
| 1.3 | 130 | Adopt new technologies to improve the efficiency of government infrastructure | NSW | Ongoing | A number of initiatives have been completed that will continue as ‘business as usual’ across ports, road and rail networks. Transport for New South Wales continues to explore technology solutions to improve the efficiency of administration and management of the network. Transport for NSW released in March 2021 the Future Technology Roadmap. |
| 1.3 | 131 | Foster trials of emerging technology by industry | NSW | Ongoing | Transport for New South Wales is currently engaging with industry and technology suppliers across a number of initiatives including heavy vehicle platooning and automation, vehicle-to-infrastructure systems to optimise traffic signal timing and reduce travel times for freight vehicles and last mile deliveries by aerial drones in urban areas across. |
| 1.3 | 132 | Support national reforms to investment in the freight network | NSW | 5 – 10 years | Transport for NSW will continue to work with the Australian Government and other jurisdictions on national reforms, such as the Heavy Vehicle Road Reform, to support investment in the freight network. |
| 1.3 | 133 | Explore opportunities to apply new technology to manage transport networks | All | 2019 - 2021 | Under the Heavy Vehicle Safety Action Plan, the first of six Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) enabled rest area sites (at Ogmore) was operational at the end of October 2020. |
| 1.3 | 134 | Smart Freeway – Kwinana Northbound | WA | Completed | Complete. The smart freeway became fully operational in August 2020. Kwinana Freeway northbound, from Roe Highway to the Narrows Bridge, has saved drivers up to 10 minutes on journey time. Along with installing new technologies and traffic signals at five northbound on-ramps, Perth’s first Smart Freeway involved converting the emergency lane into an additional traffic lane, from Canning Highway to the Narrows Bridge. |
| 1.3 | 135 | Regional Telecommunications Project: National Strategy Integration | WA | Short term | A has continued to invest in improving mobile coverage along highways and arterial roads. Four base stations were completed in 2020-21, with co-investment from the Australian Government and mobile network operators. A further ten sites are planned in 2021- 22. |
| 1.3 | 136 | Fremantle Ports real time data project | WA | Short term | The initiatives under the WA real-time data gathering project achieved the following:
|
| 1.3 | 137 | Grainbelt Digital Enhancement Program | WA, Industry | Medium term | Rounds 1, 2 and 3 have been awarded and rollout of fixed wireless installations is under way across the Grainbelt. The Program will deliver enterprise-grade connectivity across 110,000km2 representing 55 per cent of the Grainbelt. |
| 1.3 | 138 | South Eastern Freeway - Managed Motorway Measures Project (new) | SA, Cth | 2020 - 2021 | The South Eastern Freeway - Managed Motorway Measures Project, jointly funded by the Australian Government and South Australian Government, commenced in May 2020. The project will convert the existing emergency lane into a third full time travel lane and implement a Managed Motorway on both the up and down tracks of the South Eastern Freeway between Crafers and Stirling. The three lane Managed Motorway will include an Intelligent Transport System, with variable speed limits and a Lane Use Management system. This will enable the allocation and control of lanes across the freeway to improve safety and traffic flow. Finishing, testing and commissioning works commenced late December 2020 and was completed in February 2021. |
| 1.3 | 139 | Great Eastern Drive Mobile Coverage Program | Tas | 2021 - 2022 | This program aims to improve coverage to at least 95 per cent of the Great Eastern Drive, between Buckland and Binalong Bay. The Great Eastern Drive is a major Tasmanian transportation route, with significant areas of negligible or no mobile coverage. A total of $11 million will be invested by the Tasmanian Government and Optus to construct 15 greenfield macro base stations. |
| 1.3 | 140 | Low and Zero Emissions Vehicles | ACT | Ongoing | The ACT’s Transition to Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEV) Action Plan 2018-2021 sets a clear direction for the ACT to accelerate and support the uptake of ZEVs, including battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and electric bikes. The plan includes a range of actions, including a government commitment to all newly leased ACT Government fleet passenger vehicles being ZEVs from 2020-21 (where fit for purpose). As identified in the ACT’s Climate Change Strategy 2019-25, the ACT Government will also identify new actions to support the uptake of zero emissions vehicles from 2021 onwards and will explore opportunities to promote investment in public charging infrastructure. The ACT has also introduced 2-year’s free registration for new and used light passenger and commercial vehicles first registered in the ACT from 24 May 2021 to 30 June 2024. In 2020, the ACT has also released its Zero-Emission Transition Plan that outlines the pathway to achieve the Government’s ambition of a zero-emission public transport system by 2040. |
| 1.3 | 141 | Remote Telecommunications Co- investment Program | NT | 4 years | In addition to the 18 remote sites identified for the 2015-18 program, an additional 14 remote sites were identified for the 2019 22 program. Of the 14 new sites, four sites are completed and 10 sites are currently being designed. Five of the new program sites will provide greater coverage on key transport corridors, including one on the Stuart Highway and the other four on key regional and remote roads. All sites are expected to be completed by the end of 2022. |
Action 1.4
Advance heavy vehicle road reform to facilitate efficient investment in infrastructure
Where do we want to be by 2024?
- Stronger links between heavy vehicle road user charges and investments into road infrastructure services.
- Increased transparency to road users regarding levels of service and investments.
- Increased funding certainty for road managers, helping to deliver optional road maintenance.
| No. | Initiative | Jurisdiction | Timeframe | Progress | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.4 | 142 | Advance heavy vehicle road reform to facilitate efficient investment in infrastructure | All | Ongoing | There are four heavy vehicle road reform elements: National Service Level Standards (SLS) for roads; expenditure plan reviewing; independent setting of heavy vehicle charges; and dedicating heavy vehicle revenue to roads (hypothecation). Extensive public consultation in 2020 on reforms to the way heavy vehicle charges are set and invested (supply side reforms) was undertaken by the Australian Government on behalf of all governments. In November 2020, following the public consultations, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers noted industry and other stakeholders (including local government representatives) broadly supported the reforms. Ministers also endorsed progress on the first and foundational element of the reform package – a draft Framework for National Service Level Standards for Roads – with the aim of finalising this framework by November 2021. Infrastructure and Transport Ministers in May 2021 agreed a pathway towards implementation of these reforms, with a series of gateway decisions on specific reform elements to be taken over the next three years. The Heavy Vehicle Road Reform pathway is available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/transport-strategy-policy/ministers-meetings. New National Service Level Standards for roads will underpin road market reform. In November 2021, Infrastructure and Transport Ministers will consider a Standards framework establishing nationally-consistent road categories and setting out the different aspects of road performance that road users and managers value most – such as safety, reliability and efficiency. |