The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry calls on all political parties to support legislation to be introduced into the Victorian Parliament to progress the West Gate Tunnel project.
Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Mark Stone AM said that any attempt to block or delay the legislation will damage the state economy and Victorian liveability.
“The Andrews Government was re-elected with a significant mandate to deliver this project and Victorians expect it to do so,” Mr Stone said.
“The Liberal Nationals Coalition were clear in their public support for the West Gate Tunnel project in the lead up to the 2018 state election and we would expect that their support will be continued.”
Mr Stone said the West Gate Tunnel Project has already undergone an extensive and robust planning assessment process, including through an Environment Effects Statement (EES).
“With key approvals in place, contracts signed and construction underway since early 2018, there is no reason to delay the project,” he said.
“The West Gate Tunnel Project will deliver a vital alternative to the West Gate Bridge which is currently used by more than 200,000 vehicles a day. Trucks in the west have no alternative but to use local roads just to get to the Port.”
It will provide, quicker and safer journeys to and from Geelong and remove thousands of trucks from residential streets. This will also improve the health and wellbeing of local residents from less air and noise pollution.
Importantly, the project will create 6,000 new jobs, including 500 jobs for apprentices, trainees and graduates. Local industry will benefit with 93 per cent of goods and services and 92 per cent of steel milled in Australia and New Zealand.
The Victorian Chamber believes the project should proceed as quickly as possible, due to its obvious benefits to the state economy and metropolitan and regional communities.
Background – About the Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry
The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, established in 1851, is the most influential business organisation in Victoria, informing and servicing more than 15,000 members, customers and clients around the state.
