The Queensland Government has held the first Moreton Bay Rail Link industry briefing, attracting over 300 business representatives to hear from State Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson.

 

Mr Emerson took the opportunity to outline the State Government’s plan to release the Request for Proposals to industry on August 24.

 

“The level of interest from the construction industry ensures there’ll be healthy competition between the proponents,” Mr Emerson said.

 

“The Request for Proposals will involve companies submitting options for the design and construction of the project.

 

“It’s an opportunity for companies to show that they have the innovation and capability to build and design a project of this size and complexity.”

 

The briefing comes after the State Government conducted an internal review of the project, finding that the Department of Transport and Main Roads was best placed to roll out the project rather than split responsibility with Queensland Rail.

 

The State Government said the decision would ensure that Queensland Rail would continue to concentrate its efforts on maintaining the rail network and running passenger services while allowing the private sector to deliver the project.

 

Mr Emerson said that after proposals have been received, three or four proponents will be selected to investigate the best value for money, design and construction for the project.

 

The $1.147 billion project is being jointly funded by a $742 million Federal investment, while the State Government is contributing $300 million and Moreton Bay Regional Council contributing the remaining $105 million.