The Allan Labor Government is helping businesses in Benalla expand, with investment in a new freight facility that will create new jobs and boost the local economy.
Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence today announced that Midland Freight Pty Ltd in Benalla will receive a $1 million grant from the Forestry Transition Fund to support the construction of a new $3 million multi-purpose freight facility.
This is the largest Transition Fund grant to date and will support the delivery of this new facility that will feature an undercover freight transfer area, a new office, mechanical workshop, wash bays, driveways, fencing and security.
The company currently has 35 employees, and the project will create ten new jobs: seven drivers, an office manager, diesel mechanic and forklift operator.
Midland Freight has been operating since 1989, providing a delivery service to north-east Victoria for companies including Fisher & Paykel, Haier, Australia Post and Team Global Express. The current owners purchased the business in 2012.
This investment complements the work of the Future of Benalla and District Local Development Strategy (LDS) which aims to create new industries that will support Benalla's economy in the future. The Benalla Rural City Council has also received $500,000 from the Forestry Transition Program's Community Development Fund to further progress the area's LDS work.
The Forestry Transition Fund has previously supported Nationwide Trees in Piedmont with $775,000 and Helico Australia in Alexandra with $789,770.
The fund is currently open for applications, supporting job creation and business development in and around communities impacted by the end of native timber harvesting. A $20,000 employment incentive payment for the employment of former native timber workers is also available.
Applications close on 31 October 2025. For more information visit deeca.vic.gov.au/forestry or call 1800 318 182.
As stated by Minister for Agriculture Ros Spence
"Benalla is situated at an important transport corridor and this project will support the expansion of industry and manufacturing in north-east Victoria."
As stated by Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes
"It's fantastic to see a local business expand its operations and at the same time provide employment opportunities in the region."
As stated by Operations Manager Midland Freight Emma Cavalot
"Our dream has been to build a purpose-built freight facility here in Benalla. This grant funding will be the key to making it a reality, and in return we look forward to our growth and creating more jobs in our community."
As stated by Benalla Rural City Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn
"Benalla Rural City Council welcomes this investment in jobs for Benalla. The Future of Benalla and District Local Development Strategy identifies Benalla Rural City as an important hub for regional logistics and this funding helps cement our place in this sector."
