“This decision does nothing for Victoria’s reputation as a reliable place in which to invest capital and resources in infrastructure delivery,” says Roads Australia President, David Stuart-Watt.
“It comes on the back of a recent history of state governments overturning major transport infrastructure projects in Australia.
“We are fast gaining an unfortunate and unenviable reputation overseas as a risky infrastructure market.”
Mr Stuart-Watt described ‘the politicising of the infrastructure pipeline’ as a cost burden on both taxpayers and the consulting and construction industries.
“The latter invest an enormous amount of time and money on putting together teams to bid on, design and build these mega-projects, often deploying resources from around the world,” he said.
“Ultimately, the cost of delaying or cancelling projects like this one is felt right across the infrastructure delivery chain.
“It also affect the families and dependants of the thousands of workers whose jobs are threatened.
“We would urge those responsible for this decision to step back, look at the big picture and think of what’s best for Victoria and the country as a whole.”