Additional works get underway on VIC Murray Basin Rail Project

Significant works to improve freight rail movement in the Murray Basin in Victoria is now underway and approximately 70,000 new sleepers will be installed between Korong Vale and Sea Lake. 

The Australian Government has committed an additional $200.2 million for the Murray Basin Freight Rail Network in December 2020. The funding injection includes $195.2 million to deliver extensive works recommended under the revised business case by the State Government. 

“I'm pleased that work has now started on this important 141-kilometre track, which services two major Victorian grain terminals. 

“These works will improve safety and reliability along the line, with four level-crossing renewals and maintenance on more than 3,000 joints. 

“We know how important the Murray Basin Rail Project is to Victorian primary producers – and we're excited to get on and deliver work ahead of the next grain season,” Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development Michael McCormack said. 

The original Murray Basin Rail Project business case that was prepared in 2015 was reviewed by the Victorian Government and backed by industry engagement from freight operators and farmers who want works to get underway immediately. 

This significant infrastructure project will get more freight moving by rail, supporting the State's growing production output and making it easier for farmers to get their products to market. 

“We are committed to shifting more freight onto rail to support our exporters and ensure Victoria's freight and logistics system meets the needs of a growing population and economy,” Minister for Ports and Freight Melissa Horne said. 

Project map (source: Invest Victoria)

Over the coming months, about 23,000 sleepers between Inglewood and Korong Vale are going to be replaced while up to 28,000 new sleepers will be placed between Dunolly and Inglewood. 

“I welcome the start of work with the Australian Government's additional investment in the Murray Basin Freight Rail Network. 

“I remain committed to making sure this project delivers for these stakeholders and plans for the future of the network,” Federal Member for Mallee Anne Webster said. 

This project will provide more freight paths as well as deliver major improvements along the rail network. 

The additional $195.2 million funding from the Australian Government along with the $48.8 million from the Victorian Government will deliver the revised scope of works prioritised and recommended by the State Government. 

“These improvements include replacing sleepers, adding passing loops, upgrading signalling and improving train sidings and refuelling facilities. 

“The additional investment by the Australian Government brings our total commitment to the Murray Basin Freight Rail Network to more than $440 million since 2016 and together with the Victorian Government, total investment in the network to more than $800 million,” Federal Member for Wannon Dan Tehan said. 

The additional works on the Murray Basin Rail Project is anticipated to support approximately 1,000 direct and indirect jobs. 

Source: Premier of Victoria – Media Centre; Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development; Australian Government – Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications; Sunraysia Daily; Invest Victoria