Senate inquiry into Inland Rail

Senate inquiry — Management of the Inland Rail project by the Australian Rail Track Corporation and the Commonwealth Government

On 17 September 2019, the Senate announced an inquiry to consider the management of the Inland Rail project by the Australian Rail Track Corporation and the Australian Government.

The Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee report on Inland Rail was published on 11 August 2021. The Australian Government responded to the report on 16 December 2021.

The Government’s response to this inquiry supports 15 of the 26 recommendations made in the Committee’s report and ensures continued commitment from the Australian Rail Track Corporation to engage with communities and stakeholders, as we build the Inland Rail corridor of commerce.

In further response, the Government remains committed to providing an Inland Rail that enhances connections across the national network and delivers benefits for all Australians.

The delivery of Inland Rail is on track with the Parkes to Narromine section completed and the Narrabri to North Star section under construction in NSW. Construction on further sections of Inland Rail in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland is scheduled to commence in 2022 with construction on all sections scheduled to be underway by 2023–24.

Information regarding this inquiry, including submissions, can be found on the Parliament of Australia website.