The Port of
Melbourne has released the final version of its 30-year Port Development
Strategy 2050 (2050 PDS), a plan for the future development of the Australian
port.
Planning framework adaptable and responsive to changing needs over
time.
The 2050 PDS
outlines the future plans and approach for developing the capacity and efficiency
of the port for the next 30 years, while also providing a planning framework
which, according to an announcement, is adaptable and responsive to changing
needs over time.
The plan has been
developed through consultation with stakeholders and according to Port of
Melbourne CEO, Brendan Bourke, it "responds to Victoria's future trade
needs."
The port investing in 10 infra projects
The strategy of
the port of Melbourne outlines ten key projects that will improve capacity at
the port and respond to the needs of a growing Victoria. In particular, the
port is investing in 10 infrastructure projects to be prepared for the
potentially increased demand, caused by future population growth.
The key Port Rail
Transformation Project is already underway and is expected to move more freight
by rail. "Moving containers by rail will help get trucks off local roads,
particularly in the inner-west of Melbourne," said Bourke.
We will refresh the document every five years
More than 100
stakeholders from industry, government and the community participated in
engagement programmes. "We will continue to refine the 2050 PDS as new and
additional information becomes available and we will refresh the document every
five years," explained Bourke.
The port's CEO
highlighted that Covid-19 pandemic showed clearly the important role that cargo
plays in the national economy and the necessity for the port of Melbourne to
remain open and to operate without ceasing.
"We are
committed to our investment program to ensure we remain the premier container
port in Australia, a cornerstone of the Victorian economy and a supporter of
Australian exports," added Bourke.