Rail body calls for funding and freight shift
The Australasian Railway Association (ARA) has urged the re-elected Albanese Government to maintain momentum on rail investment and policy reform.
ARA CEO Caroline Wilkie congratulated the Prime Minister and the Australian Labor Party on their return to office, reaffirming the industry’s commitment to partnering with government to deliver “a stronger, more sustainable transport future”.
“With rail contributing more than $30 billion to the national economy each year and supporting Australia’s net zero goals, sustained investment in rail is vital to our long-term economic, environmental and social prosperity,” Wilkie said.
The ARA says that key infrastructure priorities – including High Speed Rail between Sydney and Newcastle, the Melbourne Airport Rail Link, and Inland Rail – are “nation-shaping infrastructure investments that will transform how Australians live, work and travel.”
The ARA welcomed the Labor Government’s $3 billion in pre-election rail commitments, including $2 billion for upgrading Sunshine Station and $1 billion to secure corridors for a Western Sydney Airport rail connection.
Additional commitments in the 2025–26 Federal Budget include $325 million for the Melton line upgrade and over $150 million towards planning and level crossing removals in Victoria.
Ms Wilkie also emphasised the importance of progressing regulatory reforms under the National Rail Action Plan, particularly harmonisation of standards and improving interoperability.
“These reforms will be essential to improving efficiency and productivity across the national rail network,” she said.
The association reiterated the urgency of shifting more freight to rail to strengthen supply chains, reduce road congestion, and enhance safety.
“There is also an urgent need in Australia to significantly increase the volume of freight on rail,” Ms Wilkie said.
“The ARA looks forward to working with the Albanese Government to ensure that continued investment in rail remains a priority, as well as continued regulatory reform that supports improved productivity, efficiency, and sustainability across the industry.”
