NSW Ports has called for greater investment in rail infrastructure to enhance connectivity between regional producers and the state’s ports.
Private investment in the state’s ports and intermodal facilities, which has supported the expansion of on-dock rail capacity at Port Botany, has reportedly grown the capacity of rail freight handling.
But Campbell Mason, NSW Ports general manager of commercial and business development, called for parallel investment in the rail network to ensure reliable connectivity between regional NSW and the ports.
“Port Botany is connected to the NSW network by a dedicated freight line and is the nation’s only container port with on-dock rail directly into each of its three stevedoring terminals,” Mr Mason said, speaking at the Daily Telegraph Bush Summit 2022 in Griffith.
“Port Kembla’s rail connections with regional NSW support bulk grain and mineral exports.
“Connectivity is vital to support reliable and efficient cargo flow from regional areas to our ports. Progressive public and private investment in infrastructure is imperative to ensure our supply chains cater for the state’s growing population and trade needs.”
NSW Ports and its partners have reportedly invested $2.3 billion since 2013 to enhance efficiency and productivity, $190 million of which has been invested in doubling rail capacity at Port Botany.
“Our way of life is dependent on strong supply chains,” Mr Mason said.
“Planning and delivering improved connectivity to ports will be essential to grow our economy, enhance productivity and meet the needs of regional exporters.”
He said recent weather events had highlighted the need for rail resilience, exemplified by the six-month closure of the Moss Vale-Unanderra line while it undergoes repairs.
The Illawarra line was also closed in April due to a land slip, impacting trains carrying exports such as grain and copper concentrate.
Mr Manson said the the proposed South West Illawarra Rail Link (SWIRL) dual freight-passenger line would greatly improve connections for exporters and increase network resilience.
According to NSW Ports, Port Botany, Port Kembla and intermodals at Enfield and Cooks River contribute $13.6 billion each year to the state’s GDP.
“NSW Ports is committed to working with government and industry to ensure investment is channelled to projects that will improve the productivity and resilience of the rail network,” Mr Manson said.
