A DECISION by PM Scott Morrison to make freight transport a specific ministerial responsibility is a welcome one, the Australian Logistics Council says.

ALC chief executive Kirk Coningham said the Prime Minister was “sending an important message to our industry and to the wider community”.

“ALC especially welcomes the appointment of Scott Buchholz as Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport,” Mr Coningham said.

“It is significant that freight transport is now a specific portfolio title within the ministry, and highlights that enhanced supply chain performance will be a priority for the re-elected Coalition government.”

The ALC also congratulates Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack on his re-appointment as infrastructure minster and Alan Tudge on his elevation to Cabinet as Minster for Population, Cities and Urban Infrastructure.

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During the election campaign, the ALC released a document entitled Freight: Delivering Opportunity for Australia, setting out 39 priority actions for the incoming federal government.

“ALC will be pursuing the matters contained in this publication with the re-elected Coalition Government, and ensuring that supply chain efficiency and safety is appropriately prioritised in government policy making,” Mr Coningham said.

“The most urgent priorities are the finalisation the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy, establishing the National Freight Data Hub, making certain that electric freight vehicles form part of the National Electric Vehicle Strategy the government has committed to develop and doing more to enhance freight infrastructure in Northern Australia, so we can take advantage of the region’s proximity to growing export markets.”

The ALC also congratulated Anthony Albanese on his appointment as leader of the Opposition.