The Victorian Government has confirmed that work on the state’s airport rail link has been suspended until the Federal Government completes its National Infrastructure Investment Program Review.
The future of the project had been in doubt ever since the project fell into the parameters of the review, compounded by an anticipated delay in the projected completion date.
The review does not include federal election commitments or projects under major construction, and the current total Commonwealth infrastructure investment will stay with Victoria once the review is completed.
Premier Dan Andrews said further details of the review were confirmed with the Federal Budget, with states informed that no new contracts to progress works can be entered into during the review period, without express permission of the Commonwealth Government.
“That means projects that are moving from early works packages cannot move to the next phase of works for the infrastructure program review period. The Victorian Government has identified several joint projects with work packages close to contract award, including SRL Airport, Clyde Road upgrade and the McGregor and Racecourse Road upgrades in Pakenham,” he said.
“Work on these projects will continue until the conclusion of their current package of works. Dates for conclusion vary across each project.
“To ensure certainty for workers during this time, they may be temporarily redeployed to other Big Build sites, where their skills and experience are useful for major works, while the review is underway.”
Andrews said the vast majority of Victoria’s Big Build remains completely unaffected, including projects like the Metro Tunnel, West Gate Tunnel and the removal of 110 level crossings – all fully funded by the State Government.
There are currently more than 50,000 Victorians working on Victoria’s Big Build – including on the city-shaping Metro Tunnel, North East Link Program, West Gate Tunnel, major road projects and level crossing removals, with opportunities for workers to move across different projects and utilise their skills.
Transport and infrastructure minister Jacinta Allan said while the national review was undertaken, the State Government was being upfront with its contractors, workforce, and the public, and following the direction from the Federal Government.
