Senator the Hon Mathias Cormann

The Government invites Expressions of Interest to develop a new freight hub in Sydney’s south west at Moorebank.

The Government has selected Moorebank as the next major intermodal terminal to manage the growth of both interstate freight via Sydney and import-export freight that transits through Port Botany.

Currently the nation’s second largest container freight port, Port Botany serves as a critical gateway to the movement of freight. Over the last 11 years, container trade growth at Port Botany has grown to more than 2 million containers each year.

This growth is expected to continue and will eventually impact the effectiveness of Port Botany to handle future demand.

Moorebank is large enough to support interstate freight trains, handle expected growth in container numbers and is ideally situated between major road freight corridors.

Importantly Moorebank is close to existing industrial sites and major freight markets in Western Sydney.

The terminal will operate as an open access facility to foster competition among users. Competing freight businesses must be able to operate at the terminal if we are to increase economic efficiency and innovation.

The Australian and NSW Governments have worked closely together to progress the project to this important stage of calling for Expressions of Interest.

We look forward to working with private sector partners to deliver a future-focussed, infrastructure solution that will drive economic growth and safeguard the efficient, productive delivery of freight across the country.

The Government has tasked the Moorebank Intermodal Company with overseeing the development of the Moorebank Intermodal Terminal. They are now seeking Expressions of Interest from suitably experienced and qualified organisations to build and operate the terminal.

Expressions of interest will be accepted until 26 February 2014. More information about MooreBank Intermodal Terminal is available at www.micl.com.au.