This section summarises our key findings. Sections 2 and 3 detail our complete findings, including supporting evidence.

In this report we do not specify which findings relate to which agency given the sensitive nature of the weaknesses we observed. But we have given each audited agency a detailed report about their own control deficiencies. 

When reaching our conclusions, we consulted with the audited agencies and considered their views. The agencies’ full responses are in Appendix A.

We made 7 recommendations to address 3 key findings. The relevant agencies have accepted the recommendations in full or in principle or with qualifications. While our recommendations are directed to audited agencies, we expect all Victorian public sector agencies to implement them where appropriate.

Download a PDF copy of Appendix C. Scope of this audit.

Download a PDF copy of Appendix B. Acronyms and abbreviations.

Download a PDF copy of Appendix A. Submissions and comments.

Conclusion

The shuttle network is not proceeding according to its original timetable. Service start dates across the 3 sites are delayed by 17.6 months on average, although construction at Altona is nearly complete. 

Conclusion

The scheme has partly achieved its objectives and generated economic value for the state. It has kept container freight traffic on rail but has not achieved any significant shift of freight from road to rail. 

The department’s publicly reported data on freight containers moved by rail under the scheme shows a decline against targets in recent years. 

The department’s assurance processes over publicly reported data on the scheme and related expenditure need improvement.

In 2014, transport networks in Victoria carried 360 million tonnes of freight. The government expects this volume to more than double by 2051 to 900 million tonnes each year.

To help address this long-term challenge, in 2018 the government developed a plan for the freight and logistics system called Delivering the Goods – Victorian Freight Plan.