VECCI statement on the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority establishment

VECCI Chief Executive Mark Stone said VECCI welcomes the State Government's announced establishment of the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority and initial $40 million funding for the Melbourne Metro rail construction.

"Melbourne Metro will significantly enhance the capacity of Melbourne’s transport system and create employment, with 3,500 jobs to be created during construction," Mr Stone said.

"Melbourne’s rail network, in conjunction with our road system, is relied upon daily by Victorians travelling to and from employment and while undertaking work duties, as well as by visitors to Victoria.

"More trains running from more stations will significantly improve Melbourne’s public transport system and support Victoria’s economic growth.

"In the early stages of determining the most suitable engineering solution, it will be important that the authority closely engages with business to ensure there is minimal impact on retail and professional services in the CBD and to ensure there is limited disruption to the movement of goods and services in and around affected areas.

"We also welcome the fact that the five new underground stations, Arden Hospital Precinct, Parkville University Precinct, CBD North (Melbourne Central), CBD South (Flinders Street) and Domain, will support employment in vital industries such as tertiary education, healthcare and medical research."

The Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) is the most influential business organisation in Victoria, informing and servicing more than 15,000 members, customers and clients around the state.

vecci.org.au 

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