UDIA Victoria Media Release
The Victorian Government’s budget boost to kick off the Suburban Rail Loop is a welcome announcement that will give Melbourne’s outer suburbs a competitive edge in the wake of COVID-19, says the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s Victorian Division (UDIA Victoria).
“The Suburban Rail Loop represents a new era for the revival of Melbourne’s suburban landscape – giving Victorians more choice about how and where they want to live,” said UDIA Victoria CEO Danni Hunter.
“Historically, moving to Melbourne’s outer suburbs meant a heavy reliance on the car, or commuting for hours each day via cramped public transport services. This project will revolutionise our suburbs and boost Melbourne’s overall livability,” she said.
Despite concerns that international travel restrictions will reduce population growth and consequently, the need for added public transport, research presented to UDIA Victoria in November 2020 indicates that net overseas migration in particular is simply being deferred rather than abandoned.
“COVID-19 has not given us a reason to slow down. It has given us a chance to play catchup on the infrastructure and housing we need, so we can finally be on the front-foot when population growth returns,” said Ms Hunter.
“The Victorian Government’s commitment to its Big Build agenda across infrastructure, housing and new projects is exciting and nation-leading.”
240,000 overseas student enrolments were received in the year to August 2020, which is only 30,000 less than the previous year, and Australia is still receiving similar levels of applications for permanent residency. Further, Australia’s brand has been strengthened internationally due to our success in suppressing COVID-19.
“Melbourne boasts a world-class education sector that will continue to give us a competitive edge over other parts of the country. We are one of the world’s most liveable cities and our city and our suburbs are highly desirable places to live both to Australians and new migrants.
“We are excited to see this level of proactive investment in our world-class transport system that will keep Melbourne globally competitive,” she said.
“The Suburban Rail Loop is an important part of boosting the appeal of our outer suburbs, creating jobs, and supporting economic activity.”
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MEDIA CONTACT
Hyatt Nidam
Engagement and Communications Manager, UDIA Victoria
M: 0478 415 105
