Government Pledges $10 Billion for Inland Rail Upgrade

The federal government today unveiled a $10 billion funding package to supercharge the Inland Rail corridor between Melbourne and Brisbane. Transport Minister Catherine King said the injection will accelerate track upgrades, modernise signalling systems, and reduce freight transit times by up to 20%.

“Farmers and miners rely on this route to get goods to market. Faster, more reliable rail will boost regional economies and take pressure off congested highways,” King told parliament. The funding is expected to support 4,500 construction jobs over the next three years.

Opposition leaders welcomed the pledge but urged details on delivery timelines. Greens transport spokesman Adam Bandt called for stronger environmental safeguards around new works.