By NICOLE WILLIAMS
A PAKENHAM transport company has thrown its support behind a multi-million funding package for the Port of Hastings.
The Victorian Government has committed to $110 million provided over four years for the development of the Port of Hastings in the 2013-14 State Budget.
Tim Coates, general manager of Asixa Logical Outcomes, said it was a major step in the right direction.
“This project will more than pay for itself in the long-run, and become an indispensable benefit in expanding Victoria’s freight capacity and supporting economic growth,” he said.
Mr Coates said the Port of Hastings would streamline freight movement, not just in the south east, but also around the state.
“The state’s south east is a thriving population and employment hub, with Casey and Cardinia in particular among the local government areas experiencing the largest and fastest population growth in the state,” Mr Coates said.
“The south east deserves a port capable of meeting the growing needs of its residents and businesses.”
The funding package includes the completion of preferred scope; design works; transport connection planning; preliminary work to support environmental approvals processes; business case development; and procurement and delivery strategies.
Mr Coates said Asixa saw first-hand the disadvantages of a freight network that revolved around Melbourne’s west.
“Too much time and money is lost shipping goods to the south east via the West Gate and Monash freeways. Even small delays on these packed routes cause major imposts to business, including higher transport costs,” he said.
“A significant port facility at Hastings would allow Victoria’s south east to flourish while improving efficiency and lowering transport costs.”
The Victorian Government made a commitment in April, which was backed by the Cardinia Shire Council. Cardinia Shire Mayor Brett Owen applauded the decision at the time.“
The building of a world-class container port at Hastings will significantly boost economic growth and job prospects in Cardinia Shire,” he said.
“To have this major gateway for import and export trade within 50 kilometres of our municipality will be hugely beneficial for the shire’s residents and businesses.”
Minister for Ports David Hodgett said the funding was part of a $115 million investment in the growth of Victoria’s commercial and local ports.
“The Coalition Government is building for the growth of the state by delivering major infrastructure, and as part of that, we’re taking the necessary steps to sustain record growth across the ports sector and continuing to bolster investment in local ports,” Mr Hodgett said.
“The $110 million provided over four years as part of this year’s budget will kickstart the development of the Port of Hastings and accelerate planning for a future multi-billion dollar container port, capable of handling eight to nine million containers.”
