The big rail project connecting Brisbane to Melbourne regional Queensland is tracking well, according to the infrastructure minister.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure Warren Truss said around 400 representatives from Australian and international construction and rail companies, consultants and suppliers have attended briefings in Sydney and Brisbane to learn about upcoming contracts they might want to undertake.

The Federal Government has done much to spruik its Inland Rail freight project, but it has failed to crack the mainstream news cycles for more than a few reports.

Mr Truss says the Government has committed $300 million for Inland Rail pre-construction activities such as corridor planning, environmental assessments, community consultation, and commencing land acquisition.

The Australian Rail Track Corporation is keen too, with CEO John Fullerton saying freight volumes between Brisbane and Melbourne are forecast to triple by 2050, based on 2010 figures.

“By engaging with industry early, we can maximise the efficiency of Inland Rail Programme delivery and the significant economic opportunities for all concerned,” Mr Fullerton said.

Consultation with industry will continue until the end of the year, with services briefs for planning approvals, reference design, geotechnical and survey designs, as well as environmental impact assessments, expected in the first half of 2015.

Businesses looking for more information on the Inland Rail Programme Industry Briefings can email: iThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.