The state government has unlocked a vital asset by selling the Port of Melbourne lease for $9.7 billion, but we need to ensure that the proceeds are used to build a sustainable future for all Victorians.
Rural Victoria stands to benefit from more than $1 billion in priority infrastructure projects from the deal.
This a fantastic outcome and one that the Victorian Farmers Federation has worked tirelessly to achieve.
But we are very conscious that we can’t sit pretty now that we’ve achieved this great result.
Our work is only just beginning!
The VFF is determined to work hard to ensure key priorities for rural communities are addressed and we’re looking forward to working with the government on identifying projects, many of which desperately need funding. In agriculture we need infrastructure investments in irrigation modernisation, pipelines to secure water for livestock producers, freight rail line upgrades, the elimination of mobile phone black spots, and a raft of other projects.
And it’s vital that the government also invest in infrastructure links to the port, such as upgrading our road and rail networks – both in the immediate vicinity and the broader supply chain.
I’m confident we can achieve this.
I must acknowledge the efforts of my predecessor as VFF President, Peter Tuohey, in leading negotiations with the government to achieve this outcome.
It’s because of Peter that Victorian agriculture has been given a $200 million bump from an Agriculture Industry and Jobs Fund, set up by the government to boost jobs and investment in the farm sector, in addition to the $970 million the government pledged for rural infrastructure projects.
The fund’s main goal is to create jobs, boost exports, and support farmers in transporting their products from paddock to port.
Our support for the sale has always depended on the state government ensuring these issues are addressed and the port remains competitive.
Now, we just need to make sure the new leaseholders continue to make the port efficient and keep the costs for port users down.
But now it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work improving our rural and agricultural infrastructure.
- David Jochinke, VFF president
