The Australian Government has committed $44 million to the second round of the Inland Rail Interface Improvement Program to help assist the development of ideas which can boost economic benefits of the project in the Calare electorate.
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Three proposals are set to progress under the second round of the Interface Improvement program in the Calare electorate, all designed to help prepare for and maximise the benefits of the operation.
The impact of constructing a greenfield line between Maryvale and Goolma is one, including the construction of passing loops at the Castlereagh Loop, Goolma Loop and Bodangord Loop that could enchance connections.
The third proposal will investigate options to reposition or reorganise local infrastructure and supply chains in the Central West.
They are three of 38 proposals from regional Victoria, NSW and Queensland working with technical experts funded through the second round program, helping people develop business cases and study the merits and feasibility of proposals.
The first section of Inland Rail is already operating between Parkes and Narromine and construction is well underway north of Narrabri too, with communities and business looking to gain access to fast and reliable freight transport.
Finance Minister Simon Birmingham said utilising community and industry ideas will only enhance the Inland Rail network, delivering significant benefits to the Australian economy in doing so.
Federal Member for Calare Andrew Gee agreed, saying the Inland Rail will deliver for the Central West in a number ways, including job creation.
"This massive project will create jobs allowing businesses in the Central West to employ locals and stimulate the local economy," Mr Gee said.
"Our primary producers and businesses in the Central West will benefit from the construction of Inland Rail, making it easier to get our exports to market."
Twenty project proposals from round one are receiving expert support through the II Program and a further 18 project proposals were found eligible in round two.
The II Program does not provide or guarantee funding for projects however, it enables local ideas to be developed for further investment consideration.
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