The federal government will fast track business cases for three projects to take advantage of the Inland Rail project through improved connectivity along the route.
One investigation will assess the cost/benefits of upgrading the Gilgandra-Coonamble line. Another will look into improving the road/rail interface at Narrabri. And a third will investigate enhancing the connection of Baradine’s grain silos.
The business cases are part of the $44 million Inland Rail Interface Improvement Programme.
Regional services, decentralisation and local government minister Mark Coulton said the three projects, all in his electorate of Parkes, would potentially support more productive rail-based supply chains at regional centres, and help build capacity on key country rail lines.
“Inland Rail is a project offering a real opportunity to change the way rural economies operate, by better facilitating the flow of produce out and stimulating the flow of investment back in to these regions,” Coulton said on September 25.
“It is clear that in order for communities like Baradine, Coonamble, Narrabri and Gilgandra to make the most of this major project, we need to make sure the local connections and interfaces are in place to facilitate the best future for these communities.”
Coulton said farmers and graziers in his electorate are desperate for rain as they battle the enduring impacts of drought.
“We can’t make it rain, however by investing in nation-building projects like Inland Rail, we are forging a future of stronger and more resilient regional and rural communities, capable of bouncing back when the season does turn around,” he said.
Deputy prime minister Michael McCormack said the fast-tracked investigation for the Gilgandra-Coonamble line would develop pre-feasibility and feasibility studies to understand how potential network improvements could unlock further productivity with a more accessible Inland Rail.
“Freight connectivity and efficiency supports economic growth and will maximise the returns for national productivity that we know are possible with Inland Rail,” McCormack said.
“We want to help regions make the most of their natural assets, and to turn those assets into real and tangible benefits that will grow regional towns and build resilient local economies.”