NSW reviews rail access

News 16 Dec 2012 by WCN Editorial

New South Wales is reviewing its rail freight access regime for the first time since it was introduced in 1996.

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Transport for New South Wales is seeking industry feedback on the regulatory framework that enables third party freight operators to use the state’s rail network. The department said effective management of the rail network was essential, especially as the goal is to double the proportion of container freight movements by rail through New South Wales ports by 2020.

The review will consider these demands and address future challenges, including the arrangements for rail lines in rural and regional New South Wales and the need to improve operator and network efficiencies in Sydney.

Although the 1996 regime has remained largely unmodified, there have been significant changes to the rail industry in the last 20 years, a spokesperson for Transport New South Wales said. The review will look closely at the existing rail access regime, what is working well and where improvements can be made. It will also consider what amendments are needed to reflect changes in the rail industry.

The review of the rail access regime is in the draft Long Term Transport Master Plan and is a key strategic action in the state’s first draft Freight and Ports Strategy.