Stories from Parkes · Australia

The Australian federal government announced it is halting plans for the Melbourne to Brisbane inland rail project. The 1,600-kilometre project was intended to provide faster and more resilient freight services while reducing road emissions. Funding for the rail line will now terminate at Parkes in New South Wales. The project was previously expected to span the full distance between Melbourne and Brisbane. This decision impacts the infrastructure development. Independent estimates indicate the total cost to deliver the project in full now exceeds $45 billion. Infrastructure Minister Catherine King stated the government is making decisions to realign the network for safety and efficiency. The Shadow Treasurer dismissed claims by Jim Chalmers that public spending was not a factor in the decision. Completion of the project is expected through the reallocation of 1.7% of the budget.