Linking the city and suburbs to Melbourne Airport by train has long been in the pipeline – and today there are reports the federal government is offering up extra cash to make it a reality.
As she officially launched Labor’s campaign for the Werribee by-election, Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan wouldn’t confirm if she is under pressure to prioritise tracks to the airport over her pet project, the Suburban Rail Loop.
“We are already committed to both projects,” Allan said.
“We’re continuing to talk to the federal government about the projects that we want to see supported here in Victoria.”
The Age reported this morning that two government sources said the federal government was willing to provide additional funds towards the project.
The project currently has $10 billion dedicated to it with the state and commonwealth contributing $5 billion each.
The project is likely to cost more than that and is not expected to be up and running until 2033, four years behind schedule.
Melbourne Airport management did not weigh in on the issue today but they have long been on the record as supporting the project getting on track.
