Sharing the Load: The Case for Greater Investment in Freight Moved by Rail 

Date: Thursday 23 July 
Time: 2:00pm – 2:50pm 
Location: Fringe Room 3
Format: Panel discussion   

Organisation: Rail, Tram and Bus Union 

Australia’s freight task is rapidly growing, driven by export demand, expanding supply chains and a growing population. At the same time, global instability and recent fuel shocks have exposed the vulnerabilities of Australia’s road-dependent freight system. 

With rail offering benefits such as reduced congestion, emissions, and improved fuel security, the question is no longer whether rail or road should carry freight but how future freight demand can be met by rail. 

In this session, the McKell Institute and the Rail, Tram and Bus Union launch the Report, Sharing the load, and explore the future freight task moved by rail. 

Speakers: 

  • Sarah Mawhinney – Queensland Executive Director, the McKell Institute 
  • Joshua Dekuyer – Western Australia Branch Secretary, Rail, Tram and Bus Union 
  • Geoff Smith – Chair of Freight on Rail Group and Managing Director of SCT 
  • Alice Jordan-Baird – Member for Gorton 

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