New contracts have been signed to deliver feasibility design work for key sectors of the Melbourne to Brisbane Inland Rail project.

The contract for the 490km Melbourne-Albury-Illabo section has been awarded to Kellogg Brown & Root Pty Ltd and is valued at approximately $6 million.

According to Farrer MP Sussan Ley, Albury to Illabo is one of 13 projects needed to complete Inland Rail.

“185km of existing corridor from the NSW/Vic border to Illabo (east of Junee) will need enhancements to existing structures and increased height clearances to accommodate double stacked trains up to 1,800m in length.”

Methods to be assessed will include lowering or shifting the track, raising or widening bridges or replacing a bridge completely.

Decisions will also be based on local conditions, including road traffic movements, appropriateness of existing rail structure and how works will affect communities and existing track users.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Darren Chester said Inland Rail would stimulate significant development, investment and innovation opportunities for many communities.

“This critical infrastructure will be the catalyst for new manufacturing and production opportunities throughout regional Australia.”

Inland Rail is the largest freight rail infrastructure project in Australia, and will create a host of new opportunities for businesses and communities along the route, including new jobs, investment opportunities and business expansion

The Australian Government announced an additional $8.4 billion commitment to Inland Rail in the 2017-18 Federal Budget, on top of nearly $900 million previously committed. More information about the project is available at www.inlandrail.com.au