Federal infrastructure funding welcomed

THE Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) has welcomed investment in Victorian infrastructure in the latest federal budget.

Chamber chief executive officer Mark Stone said the budget built on the strong outcomes for Victorian business delivered in last week’s state budget.

“Importantly, the federal budget demonstrates responsible economic management with a projected return to surplus in 2019-20.”

He said the $7.8 billion investment in Victorian road and rail infrastructure – including $50 million for the duplication of the railway line between South Geelong and Waurn Ponds and $5 billion towards a rail link to Melbourne Airport – helped to lift Victoria’s share of federal infrastructure funding.

VCCI also welcomed the $20 million funding for the expansion of Avalon Airport, $1.75 billion for the North-East Link, and $3 billion towards the East West Link.

Federal Treasurer Scott Morrison helped turn the first sod on the new international terminal at Avalon on the weekend with Corangamite federal member Sarah Henderson.

The construction phase is expected to generate more than 30 jobs at the airport and 50 jobs elsewhere, while the international services are expected to create almost 190 full time jobs at the airport itself and 170 extra jobs in Geelong and the surrounding region.

“This project is a huge boost for our region’s economy and is the start of great things to come,” Ms Henderson said.

“I thank the Treasurer for making this $20 million commitment to the Avalon Airport so that we have the facilities needed to welcome and process international visitors.”