Senate Estimates hearings this week have revealed alarming failures on the Toowoomba to Brisbane Passenger Rail business case project.
Questions put to the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Legislation Committee on behalf of Federal Member for Groom, Garth Hamilton, highlighted critical delays and minimal effort to advance vital infrastructure for the Toowoomba Region.
The Preliminary Evaluation Report on Toowoomba to Brisbane Passenger Rail was provided to the federal department in May 2022, yet the committee could not confirm whether the Minister had been briefed on its findings.
Mr Hamilton said this was simply unacceptable, but not surprising of the Labor Government with a complete disregard for regional Australia.
“Passenger Rail between Toowoomba and Brisbane would be transformational for our region, enhancing connectivity, easing commutes, and supporting our growing population,” Mr Hamilton said.
“The fact that the government has been sitting on this report for over two years and from answers at Senate estimates, failed to progress outcomes is completely unacceptable.”
“It is damning that after nearly two and a half years, we still cannot confirm whether the Minister has been briefed on such an important report and that the full report has not been released.”
Mr Hamilton also expressed concern over the government’s priorities in returning the unspent funds that were earmarked for this project.
“$15 million was provided under the former Coalition government to support the delivery of a business case and advance the project, yet the department has confirmed only $2.5 million was expended – I really question the credibility of the report that was completed.”
“It’s concerning that, instead of supporting a project that would deliver real benefits to our community, or reinvesting these unused funds in local roads and infrastructure Labor cut, these funds have been returned for use elsewhere,” he said.
Mr Hamilton said the Australian Government should release the business case report in full for transparency and public consumption.
“Taxpayers paid for this report, we should have complete confidence in the process and outcomes, not just the cherry-picked summary we have been provided. Release the business case to redeem this damning process.
ENDS.
Media Contact: Greta Dwan 0414 211 908
VIEW THE HEARING HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4i66lXT5PM
