MELBOURNE’s container logistics chain will face comprehensive changes later this year when the West Gate Tunnel and upgraded M1 infrastructure comes into use.

CTAA, FTA/APSA and other industry organisations are joining forces to mount a free seminar on 4 March at the Yarraville Club to discuss with port transport operators the ramifications of the changes, including container transport costs, route access to the port, and the future locations of container facilities – transport depots, warehouses and empty container parks.

“Improved travel times from the west will be offset by heavy vehicle tolling, whether through the new West Gate Tunnel or via the West Gate Bridge.” CTAA director Neil Chambers said.

“The Victorian Government also intends to enforce No Truck Zones on inner west roads near the port.

“What impacts will this have on you?”

The seminar aims to begin to arm all container logistics chain stakeholders with more information, to assess the impacts from their own perspectives. It will also deliver a general update on port developments from the Port of Melbourne and a panel session with container terminal representatives on current landside interface issues.

Victorian Minister for Ports & Freight, Melissa Horne, will deliver the opening address, which will be followed by:
• West Gate Tunnel / Major Road Projects Victoria – final construction phases
• Victorian Department of Transport – implementation & enforcement of No Truck Zones in the inner west
• Transurban – preparing for opening – heavy vehicle tolling tariff – how the network will operate – assisting industry prior to opening
• Port of Melbourne – associated port development strategy update
• Container Terminals – Panel discussion on landside interface issues
• All Speakers’ Panel – facilitated Q&A with attendees

“All stakeholders in the container logistics chain will be impacted, so we urge all organisations with a keen interest in the cost and operation of container logistics in Melbourne to attend,” Mr Chambers said. These include shipping lines, container terminals, empty container park operators, importers & exporters, freight forwarders, transport operators (road & rail), warehouse operators, suppliers to the sector, and government bodies.

Details: 8am for 8.45am to 12.45pm (followed by a buffet lunch), Tuesday, 4 March 2025
Where: Ballroom, Yarraville Club, 135 Stephen Street, Yarraville (ample free car parking adjacent to the Club)
Cost: FREE!! (but registration is essential, for catering purposes):