Sharing the Load
This report examines how Australia can meet its rapidly growing freight task while improving productivity, strengthening supply chain resilience, reducing emissions, and enhancing road safety. Rather than framing road and rail as competing modes, the report argues that both are essential components of an integrated national freight network, with rail playing a greater role in carrying future freight growth where it is most efficient.
Drawing on original economic modelling, government data, and industry consultation, the report demonstrates the significant economic, environmental and safety benefits of increasing rail’s share of future freight movements. It sets out a practical reform agenda, including national coordination, targeted commercial incentives, investment in intermodal infrastructure and freight rail capacity, support for rail decarbonisation, and greater use of rail for dangerous goods, providing a roadmap for a safer, more resilient and more productive freight system.
July 2026
SOCIAL SHARE