Sarah Oliver
Global and national logistics and supply chain companies are lobbying for a new freight terminal in Melbourne’s west.
In May 2021, the Federal Government committed $2 billion towards construction of an intermodal freight terminal in Melbourne to complete the Commonwealth Inland Rail project.
A new group of executive representatives from the major supply chain and logistics companies have come together to voice their strong preference for the Western Intermodal Freight Terminal (WIFT) in Truganina.
Together with major companies, representatives from WoMEDA, LeadWest, Melton City Council and Wyndham City Council also form part of the WIFT Alliance.
In a statement, the WIFT alliance said both state and federal government business cases identified Melbourne’s west as the most suitable location for a terminal but is yet to commit funding to a terminal in Truganina or an alternative in Beveridge.
The alliance have declared the WIFT as the preferred location for its ability to deliver the freight
efficiency the industry needs to support more freight on rail.
The WIFT Alliance has called on governments to prioritise and invest in the WIFT in Truganina as the preferred industry option.
Linfox Chief Executive Mark Mazurek said the WIFT is the option the industry needs.
“A freight terminal in the west will not only benefit industry, but it will drive better outcomes for the community, lowering the cost of delivering everyday items, delivering local jobs, easing traffic congestion, improving road safety and reducing greenhouse gas emission for the freight sector,” he said.
Melton mayor Goran Kesic said the freight precinct will create 2000 direct jobs.
“In an area with such a high demand for local jobs, employers will have an available and skilled
workforce ready and waiting.”
