Inland rail: Legal action launched, roundtable cancelled

The controversial plans for the inland rail route have been put on hold with a scheduled meeting cancelled following legal action launched by two leading farm bodies.

Sensitive subject: CWA of NSW chief executive Danica Leys was told the roundtable to discuss the inland rail route was cancelled due to legal action launched by the CWA and NSW Farmers.

A SCHEDULED meeting to discuss the contentious inland rail route has been cancelled, following the launch of legal action against the Federal Government by two leading farm lobbies.

Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Michael McCormack pulled the pin on the roundtable which was set for last Thursday, citing concerns over rising coronavirus outbreaks.

However, the Country Women’s Association of NSW says it was told the cancellation was prompted by a legal letter sent by the CWA and NSW Farmers to the Australian Rail Track Corporation.

The two groups engaged law firm Holding Redlich to write to the ARTC last week, advising of its ongoing concerns with how landholders along the Narromine to Narrabri section of the 1700km track are being dealt with.

They are demanding an independent assessment of key features of the route and transparency of the project’s management, and have not ruled out further legal action if necessary.

CWA of NSW chief executive Danica Leys said the meeting was co-ordinated by the National Farmers’ Federation on behalf of landholders.

“We understand our legal work, while not the only reason, was a big part of (the cancellation),” Ms Leys said.

“Going forward we hope we can have these meetings, because having answers to the legitimate questions landholders have is the only way the project is going to succeed.”

Mr McCormack’s office did not respond directly when asked if the meeting was cancelled due to the legal action.

A spokeswoman said the Minister postponed the roundtable in consultation with the NFF, due “the deteriorating COVID-19 situation”, and that it would be rescheduled in due course.

“The NSW Farmers and the CWA views regarding the inland rail route and maximising the benefits for agriculture and farming communities are well known to the Government and the ARTC,” she said.

“Any significant nation-building infrastructure, such as inland rail, will elicit various responses in communities and we have ensured all views are heard.

“The ARTC has continued to engage with NSW Farmers to answer their questions and offer opportunities to work collaboratively to optimise solutions for farmers, communities and for this national infrastructure that is much needed in Australia.”