Labor Promises to Return WA Rail Freight Network to Public Ownership

April 29, 2025 — Melissa Coade
In a bid to future-proof Western Australia’s crucial rail freight link and enhance national connectivity, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a commitment of $2.5 million in federal funding allocated to the Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC). The ARTC will spearhead a viability study of WA's rail freight network as part of efforts already underway by the state government.

Background of the Rail Network

Labor asserts that investment and growth in important industries have been stifled since the rail network was privatized by the former WA Liberal National government 25 years ago. The current WA Premier, Roger Cook, expressed the lingering negative impacts of this decision:

“My government wants to bring WA’s rail freight network back into public hands where it belongs. Taking control back of our rail freight network will help diversify our economy for the future, create local jobs, and ensure all Western Australians, no matter where they live, have access to the services they need.”

Demands on the rail freight system have markedly increased, driving Cook's government to actively pursue negotiations to regain public ownership of the east-west rail line.

National Connectivity and Economic Implications

PM Albanese emphasized the importance of maintaining productive and well-maintained freight lines, stating, “Our rail network is our nation’s nervous system. The viability study into public ownership will ensure our freight system remains strong and viable for many years to come.”

Catherine King, the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, added that the rail line connects WA with the eastern states, ensuring that the region benefits from lower freight costs and improved connectivity for at least another 100 years:

“As we saw in 2022, when this line goes out of action, freight movements and supply chains come to a screeching halt.”

Conclusion

This commitment not only reflects a strategic move to support local economies but also aims to address historical challenges posed by privatization. If successful, it could reshape WA's logistical landscape, poised for long-term sustainability and growth.

Source: https://www.themandarin.com.au/291204-labor-promise-to-return-wa-rail-freight-network-to-public-ownership/