Victoria invests in freight decarbonisation and infrastructure

The Victorian Government has announced the recipients of its $8 million Freight Decarbonisation Co-Investment Program. The initiative provides grants of up to $300,000 to small and medium-sized freight businesses to support the adoption of electric vehicles, charging infrastructure, and other emissions-reduction technologies. Notable recipients include Foodbank, which will receive $205,000 to replace a diesel truck with a battery-electric vehicle for its Altona warehouse operations.

The program is a component of the Victorian Freight Plan 2025–2030 and aims to reduce operating costs and emissions while providing the government with data on the challenges of implementing lower-emission technology. The freight industry is a major economic driver for Victoria, contributing approximately $36 billion to the state economy and employing 240,000 people.

Separately, the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) has highlighted the need for long-term strategic planning to maintain Victoria’s position as Australia’s logistics leader. The VTA emphasizes that addressing ageing infrastructure, road conditions, and workforce shortages is critical. Key priorities include protecting future freight corridors, such as the proposed Outer Melbourne Ring Road, to ensure long-term competitiveness and productivity.