ARA asks new Victoria transport minister to support SRL

AUSTRALIA: The ARA has welcomed Vicki Ward as Victoria’s new public transport minister while urging the state government to keep the Suburban Rail Loop and Melbourne Airport Rail Link moving forward.

The Australasian Railway Association said the appointment, announced on 4 August 2026, comes at a critical point for Victoria’s transport program. The Victorian Government’s ministry announcement confirms Ward will also remain Minister for Creative Industries.

Industry seeks continuity for two rail programs

ARA Chief Executive Officer Caroline Wilkie said the rail industry wants to work with Ward on projects intended to support Melbourne’s population growth and improve access to employment, health and education.

The association’s immediate request is continuity for the Suburban Rail Loop and Melbourne Airport Rail Link. “It is essential that both of these projects proceed as planned,” Wilkie said.

The statement is an industry advocacy position rather than a new government funding decision or project timetable. It places the two programs at the centre of the ARA’s first public message to the incoming minister.

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SRL East is already under construction

According to Victoria’s Big Build, SRL East will run from Cheltenham to Box Hill through 26 kilometres of twin tunnels and connect six new underground stations. Construction has been underway since mid-2022, with passenger services planned for 2035.

The ARA cited the program’s potential to support 70,000 new homes and 24,000 jobs during construction. Wilkie said the orbital line would improve access to jobs and essential services, while the airport rail project would help untangle Melbourne’s metropolitan network and expand opportunities in the northern and western suburbs.

Freight portfolio remains with Melissa Horne

The association also welcomed Melissa Horne’s continuation as Minister for Ports and Freight. Victoria’s new ministry gives Horne additional responsibility for jobs, industry, advanced manufacturing and defence industry.

The ARA said greater use of rail could improve efficiency across the state’s freight network and confirmed that it would continue engaging with Horne on freight reforms.