Victorian Chamber commends both major parties on Port of Melbourne lease legislation agreement

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Mark Stone: has commended the Victorian Government and Opposition on finally reaching agreement regarding the Port of Melbourne lease legislation.

"Given the importance of this legislation and the fact that both major parties have been supportive of moving this project forward for two years, this is a timely outcome and one that will benefit all Victorians," Mr Stone said.

"The lease of the port will have a significant impact on Victoria’s economic future. The estimated $6 billion to be generated is essential to progress our state’s infrastructure priorities. These projects are vital to the competitiveness and livability of our state, now and in years to come.

"A notable part of the agreement is the benefit it will provide to Victoria’s regions through the commitment of $700 million in port lease proceeds to support regional Victoria," he said.

"Growing Victoria’s regions through infrastructure improvements will support regional trade and investment. This is a key priority of the Victorian Chamber, as reinforced in our Victoria Summit 2015 – Regional Victoria and 2016-17 State Budget submission.

"The port will continue to be a significant piece of infrastructure to Victoria as container throughput is expected to more than double to nearly six million units per annum in the next 15 years.

"Moving forward the Victorian Government must get the best possible price for the port while ensuring there are sensible safeguards for business," Mr Stone said.

"This project has been a long standing priority for the Victorian Chamber, including as a key recommendation in our 2014 state election agenda, Taking Care of Business."

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, established in 1851, is the most influential business organisation in Victoria, informing and servicing more than 15,000 members, customers and clients around the state.

victorianchamber.com.au

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