It’s been an interesting few months for transport in Victoria with debate on both sides of politics unravelling different perspectives on the needs of Victorian residents. Federal transport Minister Anthony Albanese has committed funding for the Melbourne Metro rail link, while Opposition Leader Tony Abbott has committed funding for the controversial East West Link. Transport experts will be dissecting these options at the Victorian Transport Infrastructure Summit to be held in September to see which projects should really be given the go ahead.

Another key development for Victoria recently has been the extension of myki to regional train stations. Cr Lisa Ruffell, Mayor of the City of Greater Bendigo will be discussing the benefits this will give regional centres and she will also open up discussion on ways to improve regional transport.

Looking at the freight side of the debate, the railway industry has questioned whether or not a Federal Coalition government will be able to provide Victoria with adequate freight infrastructure. Bryan Nye, CEO of the Australasian Railway Association recently described Tony Abbott as being “short-sighted” in his support for funding the Bruce Highway. Michael Kilgariff, CEO of the Australian Logistics Council will provide an opportunity to analyse what improvements need to be made to Victoria’s freight network in order to maintain its status as the freight capital of Australia.