“A SIGNIFICANT step towards a more competitive, efficient and productive freight future” is how Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack has described the first discussion paper on the design of the National Freight Data Hub.

Mr McCormack, also the infrastructure minister, said access to better data meant a more productive and resilient freight sector.

“Industry told us it wanted the hub and the Liberals and Nationals have backed them with our $5.2m commitment,” he said.

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“I encourage all those with an interest to invest the effort to engage closely with my Department and participate in the submission process and follow up workshops, to ensure the design meets the needs of the freight industry.

“A well-designed Hub will improve access to and sharing of valuable freight location and performance data.”

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport Scott Buchholz said the Australian government was committed to helping meet Australia’s growing freight challenges.

“Enhanced access to freight data helps industry, governments and others streamline day-to-day freight operations, make better investment decisions and evaluate the performance of Australia’s freight system,” Mr Buchholz said.

“We are pleased to be delivering on a key Liberal and Nationals Government commitment under the National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy.”

The Hub commitment also seeks to build on the comprehensive “Freight Data Requirements Study” (released in April 2019) from the iMOVE Cooperative Research Centre.

Submissions to the National Freight Data Hub: Discussion Paper 1 close on Friday 6 December. The discussion paper can be viewed at: www.infrastructure.gov.au/transport/freight/national-freight-data-hub/index.aspx