ARA: Rail Industry Welcomes Massive New Investment

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Australasian Railway Association
http://www.ara.net.au/site/index.php

Media Release

12 December, 2008

Rail Industry Welcomes Massive New Investment

The rail industry congratulates the Rudd government in making the largest single
investment in rail in Australia since Federation.

Railways strongly welcome the investment announced by the Prime Minister today in
the National Building initiative. ?This substantial investment starts to redress the
underinvestment by government in rail over many years.? said Mr Bryan Nye, CEO of
the Australasian Railway Association (ARA).

The $1.2b investment in the nation?s interstate rail track will improve rail capacity,
speed and reliability in addition to creating 2000 new jobs. The funds will flow through
the Australian Rail Track Corporation to resleepering, passing opportunities, track
upgrades and other construction.

The rail improvements will attract freight to rail reducing transport pollution, road
crashes and improving the economy. ?Every additional train takes 150 trucks off the
road, saves 45,000 litres of fuel and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 125
tonnes.? said Mr Nye.

The improvements will particularly benefit the Hunter Valley Coal Chain by doubling the
capacity to deliver coal to Newcastle port. Container traffic between capital cities and
other freight will benefit from interstate and regional track investment. ?These are
critical elements of Australia?s transport system which desperately need improvement
to underpin Australia?s domestic and export economy? said Mr Nye.

The rail industry agrees with the government?s position described by the Prime Minister
that the investment will strengthen the economy and will create jobs at a crucial time to
protect Australian households and businesses.

Rail is essential to Australia?s economic, social and environmental sustainability. ?In the
face of economic crisis, climate change, and urban congestion it is vital that all
governments ensure that rail plays its part and not just pour more money into roads.?
said My Nye.?