Arabic version: أستراليا الغربية تتحرك لاستعادة السيطرة على سكك الشحن

According to ABC News, the Cook Labor government has introduced legislation intended to establish a legal framework for buying back Western Australia’s freight rail network, 26 years after it was privatised.

The 5,500-kilometre network carries millions of tonnes of grain and minerals each year between the ports of Geraldton, Fremantle, Bunbury, Albany and Esperance and mining and agricultural regions. It has been privately operated since 2000, when the network was leased under a 49-year arrangement. Arc Infrastructure currently operates it, and the government is in commercial negotiations with Arc’s parent company, Brookfield.

Deputy Premier and Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said public control could support targeted investment, regional jobs, farmers and reduced truck traffic on regional roads. The Rail, Tram and Bus Union backed the proposal, while CBH Group hopes a buyback could help rail infrastructure keep pace with growing grain production.

A central issue is the possible reopening of the Tier 3 grain freight lines, closed in 2014. Farmer Jane Fuchsbichler said the closure of more than 500 kilometres of track had put more trucks on roads. However, a 2020 independent engineering report found restoring the lines would cost hundreds of millions of dollars, in addition to the purchase price.

The government has not disclosed a price, describing it as a significant investment. Former Pastoralists and Graziers Association president Tony Seabrook said he had heard estimates in the billions. WA Nationals leader Shane Love and shadow transport minister Steve Martin have sought greater transparency before fully assessing the proposal. Brookfield declined to comment.