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Posted by David Sexton
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08 Oct, 2026
THE GOVERNMENTS of Victoria and South Australia need to provide a construction timetable for Green Triangle Freight Action Plan announced this week, the Australian Logistics Council says.
The ALC welcomed the plan but called for more detail on funding and delivery dates.
ALC chief executive Dr Hermione Parsons said the joint approach made sense for a region whose producers and freight operators work across state borders every day.
“Businesses need both governments working from the same priorities. A truck travelling from a plantation to a processor or the Port of Portland needs access for the whole journey,” Dr Parsons said.
“An upgraded highway offers limited benefit if a bridge restriction or the final connection to a facility still prevents an operator from carrying a full load.”
Dr Parsons said the region’s freight connections supported timber production, agriculture and access to export markets, while renewable energy and mineral projects were adding new transport requirements.
“Governments want more housing, regional investment and energy infrastructure. Each depends on moving materials safely, reliably and at a workable cost,” she said.
“Freight access needs to form part of those investment decisions from the outset.”
The ALC acknowledged road and bridge improvements already delivered across the region and said the refresh should clearly distinguish existing investment from additional commitments.
“Freight rail investment needs to translate into services customers will use. Track capacity, terminal access, reliability and price all matter,” Dr Parsons said.
“Industry needs to know when improvements will be available and how they will support additional freight volumes.”
ALC is seeking a joint implementation schedule covering priority infrastructure works, cross-border access reforms, responsible agencies and measures of progress.
Dr Parsons said maintaining freight access during disruption also deserved a clear delivery commitment.
“When a major route closes, operators need an alternative suitable for their vehicles and loads. Governments should identify those routes, assess their capacity and fund the work needed to keep them usable.
“The Green Triangle has an agreed direction. Businesses now need dates and funding they can plan around.”
