The Deputy Prime Minister will today attend an Inland Rail stakeholder roundtable hosted by the Narrabri Shire Council as yet another important community consultation on the Inland Rail.
The roundtable will bring together federal, state and local governments, as well as industry representatives and the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) to discuss how Inland Rail will benefit businesses, communities and the economy in the Narrabri region.
Deputy Prime Minister, Nationals' Leader and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said the Australian Government understands the value of genuine consultation and the establishment of the roundtable is a great opportunity.
"Inland Rail is going to be a boon for regional Australia. Businesses in Narrabri are ready to get into gear and discuss what they can do take advantage of the employment and procurement opportunities as part of construction, logisitics and supply and providing services," Mr McCormack said.
"Inland Rail will improve our regional supply chains, and not only deliver freight more efficiently between Melbourne and Brisbane, but also to other regional ports including Newcastle," Mr McCormack said.
Minister for Finance and the Public Service Mathias Cormann said the Australian Government's investment in Inland Rail will provide regional Australia better opportunities to engage with metropolitan markets.
"Inland Rail will increase freight connectivity for local businesses in the Narrabri region and improve supply chain access for our farmers and producers." Senator Cormann said.
Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton said he was pleased to see regional Australians are getting ready for Inland Rail.
"As a local, I can tell you the community is excited to see this project coming to fruition. The Australian Government has invested $9.3billion in this once-in-a-generation infrastructure project and now we are working to support complementary investment along the corridor," Mr Coulton said.
The roundtable will facilitate discussion on strategies to realise the local and industry benefits of Inland Rail. The ARTC will outline the next steps in the delivery of the project, including design, engineering, environmental and stakeholder engagement.
