Jim Lloyd (Robertson, Liberal Party, Minister for Local Government, Territories and Roads) Share this | Hansard source

Firstly, in response to the member’s question, I am very pleased to be here representing the senior minister, the Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister for Transport and Regional Services who, due to a very important speaking engagement, cannot be here today. I am happy to take that question on notice and provide the honourable member with the answers. I would like to take the opportunity to make some comments in relation to the matter before the House. Obviously, in relation to the budget, the 2007-08 budget continues the Australian government’s commitment since coming to office to build stronger regional communities and grow Australia’s economic economy through investing in our major roads and rail links. From 2009 to 2014, we have committed a massive $22.3 billion to the second stage of AusLink, which is the largest ever investment in the country’s land, transport infrastructure by an Australian government. Coupled with our funding commitment of almost $16 billion under AusLink 1, we are investing around $38 billion over 10 years to ensure our major road and rail links can meet growing levels of passenger and freight demand. This record investment will make it quicker, easier and cheaper for—

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