Media Release - Senator Van Sets the Record Straight on Frankston Rail Extension

In response to Member for Dunkley’s speech in the House of Representative yesterday Senator David Van, has today set the record straight on the funding the Frankston rail extension.

 “Let’s set the record straight on the Frankston Rail Extension. The Coalition Government has led on this project from the outset.

 ·         In 2016 the Federal Coalition Government committed to a preliminary business case for this project.

·          In 2018 the Federal Coalition Government committed $225 million toward the electrification and duplication of the Frankston line.

 At the May election, recognising the importance of this transport infrastructure project, the Labor candidate for Dunkley Peta Murphy matched the Coalition Government’s existing $225 million commitment to fund the Frankston Rail Extension.

 Today Senator Van asked “Why is it that Labor are now campaigning for the Federal Coalition Government to deliver the $225 million despite the absence of any co-funding from the State Labor Government?

 “The Victorian Labor Government hasn’t committed a single cent to this project

 Senator Van commends the current Member for Dunkley on her commitment to this important piece of transport infrastructure.

 “I would encourage the current Member for Dunkley to discuss this important initiative with her state colleagues to commit to a co-funding agreement, so that this important project can proceed, and commuters and businesses in Frankston and surrounding areas can finally get what they have been promised.

 “Don’t be fooled – it’s Labor who is a roadblocking this initiative while the Morrison Government is getting on with the job and delivering for all Victorians.

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