Australia

ARA and Forg call for higher investment in rail freight network

The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) and the Freight on Rail Group (Forg) have reported in a joint submission to the Australian Government that the lack of investment in Australia's rail freight transport network is increasing the cost of living. The submission, made as part of the review of the National Freight Transport and Supply Chain Strategy, shows that disruptions to rail freight transport have cost the economy hundreds of millions in AU$ in recent years. The submission also calls for a stronger focus on resilience and decarbonisation as part of the national strategy. Likewise, the modernisation of Australia's rail network also contributes to reducing speed restrictions, increasing capacity and reducing freight costs.