Infrastructure Victoria is an independent statutory authority, established by the State Government to provide advice on current and future infrastructure needs.

In 2021 Infrastructure Victoria released its 30 year strategy identifying the required infrastructure projects needed to sustain Melbourne and Victoria.

Amongst its key recommendations were tram extensions into Fishermans Bend and for planning to commence for rail tunnel providing new connectivity to the western suburbs and the CBD via a tunnel through Fishermans Bend.

Neither of these projects have commenced beyond initial concepts.

I was interviewed by ABC News Online where I highlighted the ongoing public transport neglect and lack of commitment to these tram extensions:

“Fishermans Bend is so close to Melbourne yet so far away,” the City of Port Phillip councillor said.

Infrastructure Victoria has now updated its 30 year strategy for 2025-2055. While the proposed tram routes have been altered to provide better connectivity to Southern Cross and Anzac Station, Infrastructure Victoria has reiterated its call for these two routes to be delivered as a priority.

The vision for Fishermans Bend includes 80,000 residents and employment for 80,000 people. Moving up to 160,000 people efficiently requires frequent and fast public transport. Fishermans Bend, as an underdeveloped location close to Melbourne’s CBD, provides the ideal opportunity improve housing affordability as well Melbourne’s urban sustainability.

“We cannot expect to house 80,000 people without providing them with essential services like public transport … the tram extension is required.”

The draft 30 year Infrastructure Strategy is available at Infrastructure Victoria | Victoria’s draft 30-year infrastructure

You can read the ABC News Online Interview covering Fishermans Bend and other recommendations at Better public transport called for in new Infrastructure Victoria plan – ABC News