ALONGSIDE the federal government’s announcement of plans to boost freight resilience, the Queensland government has released the Queensland Freight Delivery Plan 2026.
It outlines 70 actions to strengthen freight productivity, reliability and safety across the state as Queensland’s freight task continues to grow.
The plan provides a five‑year roadmap to improve freight access, connectivity and resilience, with new initiatives including a Rail Freight Container Incentive Scheme, discounted diesel fuel access charges on the Mount Isa Line, and reforms to heavy‑vehicle access arrangements.
Queensland’s freight volumes are forecast to increase 20% by 2032, driven by population growth, expanding agricultural output, critical minerals development, global trade opportunities and preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The plan also commits to improving first and last‑mile freight connections and delivering critical road, rail and marine infrastructure upgrades to support industry growth and reduce supply‑chain bottlenecks.
Developed with input from more than 500 stakeholders, including industry, government agencies and the Queensland Ministerial Freight Council, the plan aims to give operators greater certainty to invest in new equipment, expand services and improve efficiency.
Transport minister Brent Mickelberg said the plan was designed to ensure Queensland’s freight network can support the state’s future economic opportunities.
“Queensland’s future prosperity depends on our ability to move freight efficiently, reliably and safely,” Mr Mickelberg said. “Whether it’s farmers getting produce to market, critical minerals reaching export ports, businesses receiving stock or families relying on goods arriving on time, freight touches every part of our economy.”
Assistant primary industry minister Sean Dillon said the plan would deliver significant benefits for regional industries.
“Regional Queensland helps feed, clothe and power the nation, so ensuring freight can move efficiently across our state is absolutely critical,” Mr Dillon said. “This plan will help improve freight access, reduce costs, strengthen supply chains and support the next generation of regional growth.”
The Queensland Freight Delivery Plan 2026 aims to build stronger supply chains, reduce delays, support jobs and ensure communities remain connected through a more resilient transport network.