14 Aug 2007: Australia - Back On Track!

[ozbob]

Media Release 14 August 2007

Australia:  Back on track!

RAIL ? Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community organisation for the promotion of rail throughout Australia has congratulated The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Transport and Regional Services for its report for the inquiry into the Integration of Regional Road and Rail Networks and their Interface with  Ports (1).

Robert Dow said:

  ?This is perhaps the most significant inquiry conducted by Parliament for many a day.  Highlighting the infrastructure failures that are holding back trade and investment it details solutions to the years of chronic infrastructure neglect and catch-up which has characterised recent infrastructure development.?

?All Governments should heed the recommendations and act accordingly.?

?Governments around Australia are starting to respond with increased funding for rail based transport solutions.  This makes a lot of sense when viewed in the context of the report tabled yesterday, and particularly as the environmental costs and true cost of infrastructure support will start to hit hard less efficient systems, particularly road.?

?Increasing population and economic pressures will dictate the rapid expansion of heavy rail passenger services; both commuter and long distance, as well as the essential freight services to improve trade and investment outcomes.  It is time to begin construction of the inland railway line between Brisbane and Melbourne.?

Reference:

1.  http://www.aph.gov.au/house/committee/trs/networks/

Contact:


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