Victorians can expect a significant reduction in travel times between Melbourne and Geelong and Ballarat, as the Andrews Government announces a new $100million commitment to undertake detailed planning for regional fast trains and infrastructure upgrades.
"Long term infrastructure plans are essential to better connect regional workers and businesses, cutting travel times and creating more liveable regional cities and towns.
"Infrastructure investment is needed to tackle rising congestion from Victoria’s population growth, which is projected to almost double to 10 million people by 2051," said Mr Stone.
Mr Stone said comprehensive and connected infrastructure projects like these are important to business and all Victorians. These projects will support trade, help get people to where jobs are and improve liveability.
Regional Victoria contributes nearly 20 per cent of Victoria’s annual economic output. It’s home to over 130,000 businesses in agribusiness, tourism, advanced manufacturing, health care, education and retail trade.
The Victorian Chamber is pleased that both major parties now have regional fast rail commitments to ensure businesses and Victorians can benefit from an improved transport system across our state.
"In the lead-up to the state election it is great to see strong commitment from both major parties to improve Victoria’s transport system, so our state can live up to its reputation as a great place to live and do business," said Mr Stone.
Better infrastructure to connect regional workers and business was a key finding of the Victorian Chamber Transport Taskforce, and a priority for business in our 2018 election platform, Stronger Business, Stronger Victoria.
