Freight governance, strategy and policy

The Principal Freight Network (PFN) is a framework that identifies and protects Victoria’s key road and rail freight routes and places. The PFN’s strategic network facilitates the efficient, sustainable and economic movement of freight to support Victoria’s economic prosperity and liveability.

Victoria's freight network relies on road and rail connections. The development of the Statement of Freight Network Capability, Rail Access Guidelines and investment in works to move more freight from road to rail will ensure Victoria’s freight and logistics system meets the needs of a growing freight task, population and economy.

The Voluntary Port Performance Model (VPPM) was developed following a review of pricing and access at the Port of Melbourne to increase the transparency of the pricing of stevedore terminal charges and agree to a set of performance indicators.

We’re working with industry to develop policies, regulations, infrastructure and technology to support decarbonisation so freight transport can reach zero emissions by 2045. This includes assisting small and medium-sized freight businesses to trial and transition to zero and low-emission equipment, developing Low or Zero-Emission Heavy Vehicle access maps, and progressing the Port Rail Shuttle Network.

As the nation’s largest exporter of agricultural commodities and the engine room of manufacturing, Victoria is the freight and logistics capital of Australia – yet moving freight is a complex task.