Please attribute to Australasian Railway Association CEO Caroline Wilkie:
“The additional funding announced today for the Melbourne Airport Rail link marks a significant step towards a more liveable, affordable and sustainable city.
“The Melbourne Airport Rail Link, as part of the broader Suburban Rail Loop project, is a critical piece of transport infrastructure that will benefit Melbourne and regional communities.
“The ARA completely supports the project – Melbourne is the only major capital city in Australia without a direct rail link to the airport despite being the fastest growing city.
“It will not only provide an essential public transport link for commuters and business but support the local tourism industry.”
Further background
- Rail patronage increase of just 2 per cent per year (nationally) takes 12 million car journeys off the road, resulting in $32 million saved from accident costs each year.*
- Rail passenger travel generates 30 per cent less carbon pollution than road travel for each kilometre travelled.*
- Each train of commuters has an environmental benefit equivalent to planting 1800 trees a year.*
- Every person that shifts their commute to rail saves 28 minutes’ aggregate travel time for remaining road users.*
*Value of Rail Report – Deloitte Access Economics (commissioned by the ARA)
About the ARA
The ARA is the peak body of the rail industry in Australia and New Zealand with 230 members in passenger, freight, operations, manufacturing, supply and infrastructure.
The ARA is committed to improving the operating environment of rail by creating opportunities for the rail industry to drive policy change that benefits our members and the wider community.