The Department of Infrastructure, Regional Development and Cities has released an independent panel’s report on Australia’s national freight and supply chains.
The Department has already begun discussions with the States on the 54 priority actions the National Freight and Supply Chain Priorities Report recommends.
Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Michael McCormack said the priority actions would inform the development of a National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy through the Council of Australian Governments’ Transport and Infrastructure Council.
“The Report paves the way for the development of a strategy which improves the competitiveness of Australian businesses and delivers for consumers by making it faster, easier, and less expensive to move goods,” Mr McCormack said.
“We know the national freight task will almost double over the next 20 years, which presents a challenge and opportunity to work with industry to maximise the benefit from the sector which already contributes around 10 per cent of our productivity.”
He said the Report provided a platform for Government to use to look at opportunities to drive efficient and sustainable freight logistics while balancing the freight needs of a growing economy.
“From farmers to small businesses and consumers, everyone has an interest in the ongoing success of our freight and logistics industry,” Mr McCormack said.
“It is fundamental to our national prosperity.
“I am looking forward to partnering with all levels of Government, industry, and the broader community on delivering the strategy to ensure we meet the freight needs of the future.”
The independent panel developed the report with significant industry input, drawing on 127 submissions and one-on-one meetings with more than 200 individuals from 28 peak industry bodies and 90 businesses.
Its 68-page report can be accessed at this PS News link.
