THE Federal Budget is an opportunity for the big parties to step up and fund the Murray Basin Rail Project.

Member for Mildura Ali Cupper is hopeful the Federal Government will announce funding for the newly scoped project in Tuesday’s budget.

It has been reported the Federal Government is keen for the project to be fully completed.

“What we need to ensure happens is the project is funded and delivered in full,” she said.

“Who ends up funding it is largely irrelevant – how much the Federal Government commits or the State Government funds makes no difference.

“What we need are the big parties to step up and deliver our region.

“That includes the upgrades to the Manangatang and Sea Lake lines.”

Ms Cupper has been a vocal advocate for completion of the Murray Basin Rail Project, having raised the issue in Victorian Parliament several times since the $440 million project stalled after running out of funds.

“We have been waiting for a long time now for the new business plan to be prepared and released by the Victorian Government,” she said.

“I am hoping there will be good news in the Federal Budget in Tuesday to ensure this project is funded and delivered.”