Cameron Robinson – Acting Executive Director of Freight Victoria – discussed the challenges and strategies that will shape the future of the state’s freight network with delegates at the Victorian Transport Association (VTA) State Conference today.
Freight Victoria, a division within the Department of Transport, collaborates with both industry and government to provide strategic oversight on ports, freight and transport systems.
The organisation plays a crucial role in connecting various stakeholders to enhance the economic prosperity of Victorians.
“Our purpose is to provide strategic oversight about ports and freight and transport systems in order to support Victorians and their economic prosperity,” said Robinson.
Victoria’s freight tasks are set to double by 2050, posing significant challenges for infrastructure and logistics. Robinson pointed out that suggestions that this is all done through trucks alone is unrealistic and inefficient.
He emphasised the importance of intermodal systems, where road, rail, sea and air transport work together to ease congestion and improve efficiency, especially as Melbourne’s population grows.
Central to the Victorian Freight Plan, launched in August 2025, are four key objectives: ensuring the freight network meets future demand, enhancing efficiency, supporting decarbonisation and improving safety.
Robinson highlighted 58 practical actions under these objectives, focusing on optimising freight systems and reducing road congestion.
A major part of the plan includes a $1.5 million electric heavy vehicle trial, aimed at testing zero-emission vehicles through a subsidised leasing model.
“This is a real opportunity to test these vehicles and give us feedback to improve our policy moving forward,” said Robinson.
Additionally, Freight Victoria is rolling out an $8 million freight decarbonisation co-investment Scheme, designed to help small and medium businesses adopt cleaner technologies, including renewable fuel trials and electric vehicles.
Robinson explained: “For as little as $60,000, small businesses can leverage up to $300,000 in grants to support decarbonisation activities.”
Freight Victoria continues to collaborate with industry leaders to ensure the state’s freight network is future-ready.
Robinson said government and industry must work together to meet the growing demands and environmental goals: “We need ongoing participation from the industry to ensure the future success of freight in Victoria.”
More VTA State Conference 2026 news:
- Crackdown call on sham contracting
- $8M freight decarbonisation fund coming soon
- NHVR targets high-risk operators
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