The Victorian Government has announced $10.35 million in funding for The Overland passenger rail service between Melbourne and Adelaide, and has called on the Federal Government to commit funding too.
The Federal Government has plans to cut funding to The Overland, which runs twice a week between the Victorian and South Australian capitals.
Victorian transport minister Jacinta Allan announced on Tuesday the state would invest $10.35 million of its own money, to keep the service running until at least the end of 2018.
“The Andrews Labor Government is securing the future of rail services between Melbourne and Adelaide, despite the Federal Liberals and Nationals slashing their subsidy to The Overland,” Allan said.
“Our more than $10 million investment will ensure trains keep running until at least the end of 2018.
“Pressure is now on the Federal Liberal and National Government to explain why they have slashed funding to The Overland.”
Victoria’s commitment follows a three-year funding commitment made by South Australia at the end of 2015.
But the Federal Government, which currently provides concessions on the service, has no plans to continue its own funding beyond June this year.
Chris Tallent, chief executive of The Overland’s operator Great Southern Rail, welcomed the state funding.
“This ongoing commitment from both the Victorian and South Australian Governments offers great assurance to the almost 30,000 people a year who travel on The Overland,” Tallent said.
“It’s an excellent result for this service, which relies on support from both state governments for its continued operation.”
