16 May 2008

Dr Pieter Nagel, Director of Victoria University's Institute for Logistics and Supply Chain Management (ILSCM) has welcomed the announcement in the Federal Government's Budget that transport projects in Victoria will be fast-tracked.

He said: "This funding will contribute to the development of seriously needed road infrastructure towards economic growth and regional development in Victoria."

"The fact that urban congestion costs in Melbourne amounts to $6.1 billion per annum highlights the seriousness of the need to alleviate this problem. Any commitment towards improving infrastructure to do this should be recognised and applauded."

"The current dominance of trucks in the Australian economy is a reality and the Federal Government's commitment of $70 million for heavy vehicle safety and a productivity program is surely to be welcomed."

"However, it should not distract from efforts to increase utilisation of rail - which would make an enormous impact on the amount of freight that is currently moved on our roads."

He also said that ILSCM cautions against a debate on other states getting more money than Victoria.

Dr Nagel said: "Instead of focussing on who got what, we need to recognise that this funding is a real step in the right direction - which is to a more fundamental partnership between state and federal governments.

"The Institute welcomes the commitments to transport by both the Victorian State Government and Federal Government."

Dr Pieter Nagel is available for interview. Mobile: 0412 505 849

Media Contact: Andy Gash, Snr. Media Officer
Marketing and Communications Department, Victoria University
Ph: (03) 9919 4950; mobile: 0411 255 900.