Labor Invests in the Perth City Link

Tuesday, 31 January 2012

This morning, I had the pleasure of representing the Gillard Labor Government at the start of major works on the Perth City Link Project.

I took the train in – a fitting way to arrive at an event that marks a major reform to Perth’s rail network.

The City Link Project has seen all three tiers of government come together to revitalise Perth’s city centre. Today, we took a big step forward by beginning to sink the Fremantle line.

In my speech, I reflected on how the division of our city by train lines does not fit with Perth’s reputation as a thriving, interconnected metropolis. We need public spaces that are open and useable and infrastructure that reflects our position as a world leading economy.

Because the Gillard Labor Government is committed to building cities that are productive, sustainable and liveable, we’ve contributed the vast majority of funding on the work now underway - $236 million.

Indeed, I am proud to be part of the first Federal Government to make major investments in public transport. It makes a real difference in the lives of ordinary Australians, and continues Labor’s excellent record of building rail in WA.

At the close of the event, I placed my train ticket and a copy of a letter from the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, into a time capsule.

When the capsule is opened in 2031, I have no doubt that the public will reflect positively on the benefits of Labor’s investment.

Best wishes

Louise