Victorian Labor’s Project 10,000 transport plan aims to secure long-term jobs and activity for the state’s construction industry.

Under the strategy, the construction industry would eliminate 50 level crossings across Melbourne. Labor says these upgrades will cost up to $6 billion, which it proposes to reinvesting funds earned by offering a long term lease of the Port of Melbourne. These level crossing projects are expected to create 4500 construction jobs.

Other construction projects Labor has committed to delivering include the Melbourne Metro Rail project, which would generate 3500 construction jobs, include five new inner-city stations and significantly boost train services.

Further pledges have been made to widen parts of the West Gate Freeway, upgrading sections of the Tullamarine Freeway and provide $2 billion in funding for suburban and country road projects, which would provide 2000 construction jobs. 

“Labor’s plan outlines an ambitious agenda to develop both public transport and road infrastructure, which would deliver more than 10,000 much-needed jobs for our sector,” said Radley de Silva, Chief Executive Officer of Master Builders.

“This strategy would create a pipeline of infrastructure projects to pump blood through the arteries of our industry for years to come and is something Master Builders has repeatedly called for.
“Importantly, Labor has guaranteed to proceed with the first stage of East West Link should contracts be signed by the State Government prior to the next State Election.”

The plan, to be implemented if Labor’s Daniel Andrews is successful at the November State Election, also earmarks funds for new parking spaces at train stations and implement new technology at key intersections along Hoddle Street to improve traffic flow.

You can see Labor’s full plan here.