The DEC of freight rail in Tasmania is projected to grow modestly from $7.69 billion in 2011 to $8.41 billion in 2031, an increase of nine per cent.
Despite being relatively small in a national context, freight rail is an important component of Tasmania's freight network, accounting for 329 million tonne kilometres, or 18 per cent of the state's total freight tonne kilometres travelled.474
Around three-quarters of freight rail movements take place on the 434 km National Land Transport Network rail line, which links Tasmania's four primary ports with its main urban areas. Freight movements by rail are generally over longer distances than movements by road, and rail plays a key role in connecting the state's north-west, north-east and south.
Tasmania's rail network faces some constraints, including weight restrictions and lack of capacity for large bulk carriers. As a result, the Tasmanian Government plans to invest in rail enhancements.
________________________________________________________________________________________
474. Tasmanian Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources (2013)