VECCI chief calls on Brumby to back infrastructure

<p>The Victorian Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called on the state government to provide funds for three major infrastructure projects when treasurer John Brumby hands down his budget.</p> <p>In a commentary in the <em>Age </em> today (Monday, May 1), VECCI chief executive Neil Coulson said the upcoming Victorian budget was an opportunity for the Bracks Government to take some key long-term steps.</p> <p>He said Victoria was facing more intense international competition from the developing economies of China, India and Latin America.</p> <p>"Our trade competitors are not standing still in this respect &#8211 for example, channel-deepening projects are currently progressing in Adelaide, Auckland and in Portland on the west coast of the United States," wrote Mr Coulson.</p> <p>"While our infrastructure stock is generally seen to be adequate for today’s needs, there is less certainty about what the priorities should be for new infrastructure work over the next three to eight years."</p> <p>Mr Coulson said the May state budget could address immediately three key areas in terms of infrastructure.</p> <p>&#8226 Channel deepening.</p> <p>"The budget needs to include a significant funding contribution to support channel deepening works in Port Phillip Bay," he said. </p> <p>"Channel deepening should be commenced as soon as possible in the 2006&#4707. </p> <p>"The commercial and employment costs and consequences of further delays are potentially significant." </p> <p>&#8226 The proposed Dynon-port rail link.</p> <p>"Planning work has commenced on the project and it is expected a tender will be let for construction in 2006," Mr Coulson said. </p> <p>"In light of the economic significance of these capital works, we call on the Government to use the budget to ensure the current planning and works timetable for the Dynon-Rail Hub project is brought forward to ensure its completion in 2008, one year ahead of schedule."</p> <p>&#8226 New electricity generation capacity and a significant investment in cleaner coal technologies as total Victorian energy use is forecast to increase by almost 20% over the next decade.</p> <p>"With an extra million people living in Melbourne alone by 2030, the state’s infrastructure base requires a major overhaul in areas such as water recycling, public transport and road and rail freight," Mr Coulson said.</p> <p>"Serious thought must also be given to our infrastructure needs for the next parliamentary term and beyond."</p> <br />