Merren McArthur has been appointed independent chair of the steering committee to oversee the development of the Melbourne Airport Rail Link.
McArthur’s appointment follows the agreement of a Memorandum of Understanding reached between the Australian Government, Victorian Government and Melbourne Airport earlier this year. As part of the MoU, all three parties committed to establishing a steering committee led by senior officials from each organisation to progress the MARL project.
In her role, “McArthur will foster a collaborative and constructive environment,” says a statement, enabling the three parties to work together “to develop a clear and effective pathway” for the successful delivery of the MARL.
The MARL will connect Melbourne Airport to the city’s train network for the first time, providing a direct rail service to the CBD and regional areas of Victoria. Trains will run from the airport through a new transport superhub – Sunshine Station – and into the Metro Tunnel. The project is part of the larger Suburban Rail Loop and is expected to significantly reduce travel times and road congestion.
McArthur is a non-executive director and CEO with significant governance experience in the aviation, rail and broader transport and freight sectors, including as CEO of Tiger Airlines, Virgin Australia Regional Airlines and Virgin Australia Cargo; a non-executive director of Airport Development Group and National Intermodal Corporation; and an executive director and chair of the People and Safety Committee of Queensland Rail.
“Ms McArthur brings the critical experience in leadership, governance and risk management required to guide the Melbourne Airport Rail Link through its next critical phase,” Federal Transport Minister Catherine King said. “Her extensive knowledge of the aviation, rail and broader transport and freight sectors will be a valuable asset to the steering committee.”
“I look forward to working with Ms McArthur alongside the Victorian Government and the Melbourne Airport to end the years of waiting and finally deliver the airport rail-link all Victorians deserve,” added King.
Acting Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure Sonya Kilkenny said McArthur’s appointment “is another step forward in delivering this vital project.”
The MARL will provide “a much-needed transport solution for our passengers … and we are pleased to work with the Australian and Victorian governments to progress this project for Melbourne,” Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said. “With the steering committee now in place, we’re forging ahead with the planning and coordination needed to help airport rail become a reality.”
McArthur said she was delighted to be appointed steering committee chair. “I look forward to working with all parties to support them reach agreement on the timeline and pathway for the delivery of MARL.”
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