THE AUSTRALIAN government has committed $8.5 million to development of a new freight precinct in Victoria.
Federal investment in the Goulburn Valley Link Freight Precinct rounds out the funding for the $22.9-million project, the local council having committed $14.4 million to the development.
The Greater Shepparton City Council has described the GV Link project in the state’s north as “a long held strategic goal” and a key community and economic directive.
The government’s funding will deliver enabling works for the project, including road connections, a new roundabout and road upgrades that would ensure access for high productivity freight vehicles.
Federal minister for infrastructure and transport Catherine King described the Goulburn Valley as a powerhouse of agriculture and innovation.
“This freight and logistics precinct will capitalise on its location and its connection to national and interstate transport links,” she said.
“I’d like to thank Greater Shepparton for their advocacy on this critical project. Our government is proud to partner with them to improve the productivity and resilience of freight for the broader region.”
Mayor of Greater Shepparton Shane Sali said the “ambitious” Goulburn Valley Link Project has been over a decade in the making.
“Bringing this project to fruition is the result of many meetings, partnerships and active lobbying,” Cr Sali said.
“It will be a game changer for the region, encouraging large scale commercial investment while boosting jobs in the region over the next two decades.”
Cr Sali said the creation of new industrial land would facilitate the expansion and growth of existing businesses and large sites would accommodate investment from local, national and international investors.
“GV Link will create hundreds of construction and ongoing jobs, and millions of dollars in economic benefit for the region through employment and economic output.”
Works on the project are expected to begin in early 2025.
