QUEENSLAND transport and main roads minister Brent Mickelberg says a Freight and Delivery Plan will be crucial as the state moves into a new era with a larger population and the infrastructure needs of the 2032 Olympics.
Speaking at the Ports Australia Bizops conference in Gladstone, the minister spoke of both a “strong economic base to work off” as well as several challenges.
“In my portfolio I've got a massive task to build the infrastructure required for the 2032 games and to support our population growth,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“I've inherited a transport network that probably isn't keeping pace with the population growth we've experienced here in Queensland.”
He said the government was taking a strategic approach to ensure a resilient freight system via the Queensland Freight Delivery Plan.
“That plan will ensure future actions improve Queensland's freight system and will be focused on practical, deliverable and measures that will deliver real change in the short term,” the minister said.
“My department has already engaged with the chief executive officers of Queensland ports and will continue to do so to ensure that the plan is fit for purpose.”
Mr Mickelberg said a key focus of the plan would be supporting “the right mode for the right load”.
“We understand that we need to explore new ways to increase opportunities for rail freight and we need to improve movement. goods to and from our ports,” he said.
“We're committed to providing robust and realistic plans that inform investment decisions. And by doing so, we can give industry the certainty and the confidence that they need to make their own long-term investment decisions and to respond to market demands.”
Mr Mickelberg said the Queensland Ministerial Freight Council had been strengthened to serve as an advisory and consultative body for freight and industry development.
“I'll personally work with the council members to deliver logistic and supply chain solutions that benefit all Queenslanders,” he said.
“We know that our ports must deliver efficient and reliable services to enable our Queensland industries to compete effectively on the global stage. And to achieve this, we're focused on optimising our asset utilisation, maintaining port infrastructure, prioritising funding in a way that delivers value for money for taxpayers.”
Mr Mickelberg also spoke about sustainability being key.
“Our ports must operate commercially and effectively and efficiently. while retaining the flexibility to support trade growth,” he said
“That includes supporting third-party access to infrastructure, which is essential to fostering competition and innovation.”