Port of Melbourne’s Port Rail Transformation Project (PRTP) is set to go ahead on 1 june with all of the project’s preconditions being completed.
The project is being funded through an increase in the tariff of AU$9.75 (US$6.25) per TEU on full import containers which will be applied from the first day of operations.
The AU$125 million (US$80 million) initiative will involve significant rail infrastructure works and a new rail operating framework inside the port that will provide an alternative to moving containers by trucks.
Brendan Bourke, chief executive officer of Port of Melbourne, said the PRTP is a vital project for port users and the broader economy. “A rail solution for the port will play a vital role in Victoria’s post-Covid economic recovery with a large construction project supporting jobs as well as supporting the more efficient movement of freight and contributing to a more productive supply chain for decades to come,” he commented.
“The Port of Melbourne has listened to industry feedback and is responding with a solution that meets the need for increased transparency in rail access arrangements, improved port access and greater capacity,” Bourke added. “The project embraces these principles and supports the Government’s Port Rail Shuttle Network.”
Furthermore, Bourke said the Port of Melbourne will work closely with port users and other stakeholders to ensure the opportunities and benefits are realised by the industry.
After a strong expressions of interest process, the Port of Melbourne will send out a request for proposals for the infrastructure works with new infrastructure construction expected to commence before the end of the year.
The Australian port will develop a website portal containing the information industry requires to take advantage of the new operating framework.
